Erotic cinema refers to films that focus on sexual themes and explicit content, often exploring human sexuality and relationships. These films can range from softcore, which may suggest sexual activity without showing it explicitly, to hardcore, which depicts sexual acts in detail. The genre aims to evoke sexual arousal and provoke thought about intimacy and desire. Historically, erotic cinema has faced censorship and controversy, often being categorized separately from mainstream films. Notable examples include works by directors like Maya Deren and Tinto Brass, who pushed boundaries in their storytelling. The genre has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal attitudes toward sexuality.