"the image" received mixed critical reviews. buzz burgess of "dvdtalk" gave the film four out of five stars for content, stating that "metzger [...] has created a piece argued by some to be the best erotic film ever made." charles tatum, of "efilmcritic.com" disliked the film, awarding it just two out of five stars, citing a lack of substance, ""the image" is just that- pretty pictures of pretty people whipping each other during sexual sessions. its infamy is understandable, but not deserved." michael den boer praised the actor's performances, especially brooke's, even implying that she carried the film with her portrayal of anne. although initially praised in germany, the film became controversial later, and withdrawn from circulation.