Review of sex, lies, and videotape (1989) by Joel C — 14 Jul 2009

Having always had a great interest in sexuality, this film is one that really appeals to me. The story focuses on the rocky marriage of a married couple, Ann and John, and how, due to an old friend of John's coming back into town, it all starts to uwind and ultimitely come to an end.

The main thing I liked about the film is that it discussed sex openly without having to show any on screen. When a film wants to discuss serious issues around sexuality it shouldn't have to resort to showing gratuitous sex on screen as this is a distraction from what the film is actually trying to do.

The film was really well shot and felt kind of like watching one of Graham's videotapes but with the camera turned on each of the characters lives and experiences. The dialogue seemed extremely genuine and personal, with the actors delivering the lines in a really believable manner, which is another key element as to why the film worked so well.

Basically it is a really interesting drama exploring the reasons behind sexuality and on top of that a really interesting. Definitely worth rewinding for many more viewings to come.