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sex, lies, and videotape is more than just another debut film by an aspiring filmmaker; it is an astute and insightful movie that truthfully portrays the intimate details of human sexual relationships. Its lasting effect on mainstream and independent cinema in the U.S. are reason enough to focus on the film. But sex, lies, and videotape stands strong on its own, beyond the hype that inevitably surrounds it.
Graham is an impotent man, unless he is watching his own video interviews of women discussing sexual topics. Ann, the wife of Graham's old fraternity brother, finds out her husband and her sister are having an affair. And Ann's husband, John, and her sister, Cynthia, are cruel depictions of the inherent selfishness in many sexual relationships. Filmed in a montage style with multiple close ups and high angle shots, the film depicts the unraveling of the various characters' relationships. Truths about infidelities and sexual incongruities are revealed, and the film progresses and eventually climaxes with the camera turning to face Graham, the voyeur. Graham is forced to directly relate to his own problems, and John, who views this interview later, must come to terms with his estranged relationship with his wife.
Filmed on a budget of $1.2 million, sex, lies, and videotape grossed almost $100 million and garnered numerous awards and rave critical reviews. The film solidified Soderbergh's position in mainstream filmmaking and created a mass of opportunities for the young filmmaker.
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