Maestro of sexual fantasy and pleasure, Tinto Brass sets this joyous erotic comedy in the idyllic "age of innocence" in Italy's infamous bordellos. In a masterful combination of provocative showgirl revue, incisive parody, scandalous erotica and tender romance, Madame Colette's delicious brothel becomes the fantastic surreal world where the generously endowed Mimma (Deborah Caprioglio) takes her first steps as lady of the night Paprkia.

Amazingly, Paprika falls in love with her first client - Franco, a young naval officer - but despite the attraction she begins her own orgiastic ascent eventually residing in the most illustrious brothels in the country. In her own way though, Paprika manages to stay faithful to Franco, her first true love. By the time the bordellos are closed by a new law, Paprika is a wealthy countess and in a position to fulfill her love of Franco...