Review of sex, lies, and videotape (1989) by Chris W — 18 Dec 2011

This psychosexual drama not only represents the directorial debut of maverick filmmaker Steven Soderbergh, but also stands as an important milestone in the modern indie film revolution that began in late 80s but absolutely exploded during the 90s.

The story here is a meditation on the three subjects of the title as well as voyeurism, all of which are filtered through the lives of an unhappily married couple, the sister of the wife, and an old college friend of the husband. It's a wonderfully written analysis and exploration of the roles and impact of sex and sexuality in people's lives, and the intertwining nature of everything.

The film's subject, its legacy, and the director all had me intrigued and wanting to see it. Now that I've given it a chance, I can say that yes, I am impressed, but I'm also not entirely sure of how I completely feel about it. The film takes on serious subjects, treats them seriously, and not in an overly inaccessible or pretentious manner, and I'm grateful for that. It did seem a little slow for me, and it took me a bit to warm up to it, but once things got going, I was hooked. And yet, I really am not sure what specific rating or grade to give it. I get that it is an important film, but I don't feel justified giving it a full 5. Maybe I need to let it stew for a while then rewatch it.

I do think that the casting was pitch perfect and the performaes were superb, though Laura San Giacomo could have done a far better job with her accent. The film's music isn't bad, but kinda seemed maybe a bit too heavy or eerie, and thus kinda stuck out a bit. The film's shot quite decently though, and it seems like the most was made out of the small budget.

It's the damndest thing. I enjoyed this movie, and it is quite well made, but there's something really gnawing at me, and I'm not sure what it is. I feel like it is somewhat overrated, but also that it isn't. Grr. I guess it's not really to the fault of the filmmakers though. I mean, if they set out to make a challenging and thought provoking film, they've certainly succeeded as far as I'm concerned, especially given how batty it's driving me.

All in all, I do recommend this film. For now, let's just call my rating and grade temporary until I can better reason out the most suitable verdict. B+.