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Sex, Night and the Party AKA Mentiras Y Gordas AKA Sex, Party and Lies
[Blu-ray]
Blu-ray B - Spain - Cameo Media Review written by and copyright: Samuel Scott (30th January 2015). |
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The Film
 ***This is an A/V and Extras review only. For reviews on the movie from various critics, we recommend visiting HERE.*** A group of young people are preparing for what will be the summer of life, among secrets, lies, confusion, nightlife and parties. Unaware that once this spiritual journey has begun it can not be reversed, the lies are becoming bigger and bigger and love can easily turn to hurt.
Video
Independent Spanish distributor Cameo Media have released the sex and drugs coming-of-age movie "Mentiras Y Gordas" on to Blu-ray in Spain in the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The transfer is 1080p and uses an AVC MPEG-4 encode. Unfortunately, it doesn't look quite as good as a film from 2009 should on the format. Shot on 35mm, the light layer of natural film grain is consistent throughout, never looking overly heavy. The main issue the transfer has, is the black levels. Often, there is a lot of crush present, most notably in scenes which take place in the nightclub, but it is also obvious in other darker scenes in people's apartments. Skin tones are a little warm in these darker locations too. Colours in the lighter locations, like the bar where Paz (Miriam Giovanelli) works, are a lot better, and blacks suffer a lot less from crush during these moments too. Details vary from very good, to mediocre, with some facial close-ups showing excellent minute details such as chapped lips, and errant strands of hair, and other close-ups lacking the clarity and sharpness that most have come to expect from high definition. Shadow details are below par, especially when it comes to items that are in mid-range. Contrast levels are generally fine, if a little inconsistent, and there are a few minor encoding issues that are barely worth mentioning. There are no signs of digital noise reduction, and I noticed no major blemishes - just the odd tiny bit of dust. The transfer isn't bad, it just doesn't excel in any areas. The film is uncut and runs 108:18.
Audio
Cameo Media have included a single audio track option here, and annoyingly, it isn't lossless. However, the Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 is at least at 640kbps rather than the usual 448kbps. Although the track doesn't exhibit any problems such as drop outs, pops, scratches, or background hiss, it doesn't really utilise the sound field very well. The surrounds are kept almost exclusively for the score by Juan Carlos Molina and Juan Manuel Sueiro which also gives the LFE a good workout in some scenes. Unfortunately, hardly any environmental effects get any attention. Dialogue is clear and concise at all times, and volume levels are consistent. This track is the definition of middle-of-the-road. Optional English subtitles are included, and they have no major problems with spelling or with grammar. No Spanish subtitles are available.
Extras
Unfortunately, all the extras are in Spanish without any English subtitles. As my Spanish is non-existent, all I can do is list them so you at least know what is included. Audio commentary with various cast and crew "Making Of" featurette (4:09) "Promoting the Lies" character soundbites: - Hugo Silva (1:00) - Ana de Armas (1:50) - Esmeralda Moya (0:37) - Miriam Giovanelli (0:36) - Maxi Iglesias (0:39) - Mario Casas (0:53) - Ana Polvorosa (0:22) - Yon Gonzalez (0:41) - Alejo Sauras (0:20) "Behind the Scenes" featurette (6:40) Teaser Trailer (1:03) Theatrical Trailer (1:26)
Overall
Felt like an extended episode of Hollyoaks, but in Spanish and with more nudity. Skip it. Extras have not been rated due to not being English friendly.
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