In an industry often focused on the here and now, award-winning director and performer Seth Gamble is taking a thrilling trip back in time. With the premiere of his new Wicked Pictures feature, “Once Upon a Time in the Valley,” Gamble isn’t just making another movie; he’s crafting a love letter to the glittering, gritty “golden era” of adult film, and he’s bringing his heart along for the ride.
A Passion Project Unleashed
The new multi-part erotic thriller dropped its first installment, “Welcome to the Valley,” starring the dynamic duo of Sinatra Monroe and Ken Feels. The series plunges viewers into the high-stakes world of 1990s Los Angeles, a time before streaming giants and social media, when VHS was king and the industry’s stars burned brightly—and sometimes, burned out.
For Gamble, this project was deeply personal. He’s been vocal about the passion he poured into every frame, making it clear this is a career-defining moment.
“This wasn’t just a project; it was a piece of my soul. Wicked believed in this vision and helped bring it to life.”
The story follows Steve Jacobs (played by Ken Feels), a fresh-faced newcomer with towering ambitions. As he dives headfirst into the adult scene, he’s caught in a whirlwind of intoxicating fame, treacherous rivalries, and life-altering secrets. It’s a classic story of ambition and consequence, set against a uniquely provocative backdrop.
Electric Chemistry and 90s Nostalgia
The 90s setting is more than just a stylistic choice; it taps into a powerful wave of nostalgia, exploring a time when the industry operated on a different scale. “Once Upon a Time in the Valley” aims to be a character-driven drama, exploring the human stories behind the fantasy.
Gamble credits his cast with capturing that spirit perfectly from the very first scene.
“I worked with the most talented cast and crew I’ve ever known. Ken Feels and Sinatra Monroe’s first scene together was electric. They gave life to these characters and set the tone for the entire series.”
This focus on storytelling and character development represents a significant trend, where creators are pushing for more narrative depth. In an industry increasingly dominated by short clips, a full-fledged dramatic series from a major studio like Wicked Pictures is a bold statement. Fans on social media are already buzzing, with posts on X (formerly Twitter) praising the return of plot-driven features and the palpable chemistry between the leads.
A Storyteller in His Element
This ambitious feature is a natural evolution for Seth Gamble, who has already been recognized for his directorial skill with an XBIZ award for Director of the Year. He’s part of a growing movement of veteran performers who are stepping behind the camera to gain more creative control and tell the stories they’re passionate about.
His dedication is evident on his social media, including his X account, where he’s been sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and celebrating his team’s work. It’s clear that “Once Upon a Time in the Valley” is setting a new standard for Gamble as a filmmaker.
With the first chapter now streaming on Wicked.com, the stage is set for a saga of lust, friendship, and betrayal. As Gamble himself told AVN, this series is the culmination of his creative drive.
“I poured my heart and soul into this, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
* Photo from xbiz.com
