Cast
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Crew
Director
- Steven Soderbergh
Writer
- Steven Soderbergh
Producer
- Nick Wechsler
- John Hardy
- Robert Newmyer
Reviews
William
This is about the most nonsexual movie I have ever seen with the word sex in the title. This is worse than a watered down romance novel. The story was very boring and uninspired. I personally find all the actors/actresses unattractive and there is no chemistry. On top of this being a flat film, it contains absolutely no nudity. This would be fine for the majority of movies but with a name like Sex, Lies and Videotape, one would expect at least brief nudity. Anyways, complete waste of time.
Oct 20, 2013
CinemaSerf
If in doubt, see a therapist! Well that's what the ostensibly happy "Ann" (Andi MacDowell) does whilst married to aspiring lawyer "John" (Peter Gallagher). This woman stresses about just about everything, and this singularly futile behaviour is having quite an impact on her sex-life and therefore her marriage. "John" isn't the most loyal of men, so switches allegiance to her willing barmaid sister "Cynthia" (Laura San Giacomo) and then just to add a bit more complexity, "John" meets up with old friend "Graham" (James Spader) who brings a candour to the scenario that's actually quite funny in it's potent honesty. You get a clue as to the route it's now going to take from the title and at times it's remarkably poignant as it deals quite entertainingly, if on an almost entirely sex-free basis, with what people obsess about and how in some cases the obsessing about the obsession becomes a sort of raison d'être as the problems entrench and lives get well and truly stuck. The pithy dialogue has a reality to it that though occasionally a little contrived, does make you think when you stand in front of the mirror that maybe some of the attitudes and belligerences could apply to some degree in many of our lives as we tend to overthink. It's maybe Spader's best role - his character is understated and surprisingly effective as this admittedly rather ploddingly paced look at morals and mores builds up. MacDowell isn't the best, she sort of fluffs her way through the story but the other two principals and Rob Vawter's analyst keep it all quite watchable for an hour and ah half.
Jul 25, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, sex, lies, and videotape examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Steven Soderbergh brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of sex, lies, and videotape took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.2 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While sex, lies, and videotape shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hard Times, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, sex, lies, and videotape offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Lymelife and Sharp Stick explore similar territory, sex, lies, and videotape stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 4, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Budget: $1,200,000
- Revenue: $24,741,667
