Tinto Brass, Director of Erotic Epics ‘Caligula’ and ‘Salon Kitty,’ Dies at 93

Italian filmmaker Tinto Brass, known for erotic historical dramas including *Salon Kitty* and *Caligula*, has died aged 93. His family announced his death to the Italian news agency Ansa on Wednesday; his career was marked by international success and repeated disputes over censorship and creative control.

Born in Milan in 1933, Brass began directing in 1963 with *Chi Lavora è Perduto*, which won acclaim at Venice but faced censorship in Italy. *Salon Kitty* (1976) brought him international recognition, while *Caligula*, made in 1979 and released in a different cut in 1984, became contentious after producer Bob Guccione took control and added adult scenes. Brass later directed *The Key* and other films about women’s sexual liberation. He is survived by his wife, Caterina Varzi, and children Bonifacio and Beatrice.