Unlike many of its contemporaries, the film focused heavily on the psychological tension and emotional states of its characters.
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, the adult film industry experienced a period known as the "Golden Age." During this time, films were often shot on 35mm film, featured narrative structures, and were screened in mainstream adult theaters. Taboo stood out within this era for several reasons:
: In 1983, Taboo became the first X-rated film to receive a Homer Award for Best Adult Tape from the Video Software Dealers Association. This was seen as a pivotal moment for the mainstream acceptance of home adult video.