SEX, PARTY & LIES (Spanish, with subtitles) is
populated by a variety of characters in their 20s and 30s, linked by
their excursions into the world of drugs and partying. These include
Carlos, a musician/DJ who consumes vast quantities of drugs amid a
parade of one-night-stands; Paz, who is fired from her bar-tending job
and dumped by her boyfriend when she gains weight; Leo, a 29-year-old
model and lesbian; 19-year-old Tony, who has an unrequited crush on his
straight best friend Nico; and Sonia, a 30-something drug-dealer who
keeps promising herself 'just one last time'.
The first half of the film could place it in the league of any of the
(numerous) nihilistic-alienated-youth-on-drugs-films that have burgeoned
since the 1990s - plenty of nudity, physical encounters, and
disenfranchised angst. It is easy to imagine that some viewers will see
only this superficial layer, and as such, may well be be disappointed.
Writer/director Alfonso Albacete is both experienced and accomplished,
however, and familiarity with his work facilitates an appreciation that
there is actually a lot more going on in this film.
The
crux revolves around the multitude of 'lies' that constitute our
existence: the grand lie of capitalism, promises that will never be
kept, concealed desires, self-deceptions, the belief that happiness is
one pill - or one love - away. In this regard, the youth-on-drugs
backdrop proves to be almost incidental. There is a challenge to the
viewer, as she/he observes each of the characters living out these
all-consuming lies, to locate an integrity to existence.
Ultimately, the overtly religious denouement at the final rave (a 'Last
Supper' of sorts) - which is absolutely breathtaking in this respect -
seems almost inevitable as a Christian crisis of salvation / redemption.
(Lest this summation unfairly reduce the film to some sort of 'gritty
drama' category, it should be noted that there are also occasions of
cheeky and playful humour, such as a most awkward threesome scene
involving Tony, Nico and a random girl they meet at a party.)
SEX, PARTY & LIES could easily be watched, and enjoyed, for its
profusion of sultry, beautiful Spanish skin, entwined in various
passionate physical encounters. It can also offer more, however; and
perhaps to those who initially would be put off by its title. Complex
characterization (aided by some strong performances from the diverse
cast) and unexpectedly deep themes, bolstered by some stunning moments
of quasi-religious visual imagery. *If* you're prepared to look beyond
the façade, this film is highly recommended.
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