Reflecting on Love, Desire, and Control

Read Time:4 Minute, 35 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Cheeky! (4K UHD+Blu-ray)
(adult content) –

Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2000, 2024 Cult Epics 4K
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Tinto Brass
Writer(s): Tinto Brass, Carla Cipriani, Nicholas Pennestri, Silvia Rossi, Massimiliano Zanin
Cast: Yuliya Mayarchuck, Jarno Berardi, Francesca Nunzi
Language: English & Italian with optional English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now here: www.cultepics.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In London's heart, Tinto Brass unveils a narrative rich with themes of freedom and the layers of human desires. Through the eyes of Carla (Yuliya Mayarchuk,) our vibrant protagonist, we dive into a world where she seeks liberation from the suffocating hold of her boyfriend, Matteo (Jarno Berardi.) As Carla breathes in the freedom of London's streets, she encounters Moira (Francesca Nunzi,) a real estate agent whose professional interest evolves into a deeper, more personal one. This sparks tension in the story, contrasting liberated expressions of intimacy with the dark, confining jealousy always around the corner.

CHEEKY! dazzles with its sophisticated cinematography, which captures the pulse of London in this stunning 4K restoration. Brass' direction, characterized by meticulous framing and intense close-ups, elevates the film's erotic elements while honoring the elegance of the female form. This feast is not just for the eyes but also engages the mind, urging viewers to reflect on their perceptions and the nature of voyeurism. Complementing these visuals is a dynamic soundtrack that echoes the film's playful yet edgy tone. This enriches the atmosphere and ensures the narrative resonates on a multi-sensory level.

At the core of CHEEKY!, we explore the intricate dynamics of jealousy through Matteo, whose envy complicates his relationship with Carla and drives the story to a dramatic peak. This portrayal serves as a reflective lens for viewers, revealing the complex dance between love and desire and how jealousy can simultaneously fuel and fracture relationships. Carla's journey is a quest for self-definition that pushes her to challenge her assumptions about love and intimacy. This profound exploration weaves through the city's erotic backdrop, prompting viewers to question identity and autonomy.

At times, the storyline succumbs to the allure of its visual and sensual components, with certain plot developments feeling rushed or insufficiently fleshed out. Mayarchuk's portrayal of Carla occasionally lacked the emotional depth that might draw the audience into her transformation. The chemistry among the leads, including Berardi and Nunzi, sometimes struggles to capture the deeper emotional undercurrents that could have enriched the film's impact. Furthermore, while the film's erotic scenes are a visual treat, they sometimes overshadow the deeper thematic discussions Brass aims to present. This can leave the audience feeling like they've witnessed a series of sensual snapshots rather than a unified narrative probing deeper themes.

Despite these criticisms, CHEEKY! stands as a notable entry in Brass' filmography. It blends erotic content with humor and a tone that reaches a larger audience. Brass' cinematic craftsmanship and storytelling prowess elevate the film beyond mere visual stimulation, crafting an experience that celebrates the joy of cinema in an entertaining and visually stunning manner.

Ultimately, while CHEEKY! may not reach the emotional depths of some of Brass' previous works, it triumphs as a vibrant, visually arresting exploration of sensuality and freedom. The film presents a compelling argument for the beauty of exploring personal desires set against the modern urban tapestry, offering a unique cinematic experience that combines aesthetic pleasure with engaging, thoughtful storytelling.

Bonus Materials
4K UHD BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES
New 4K Transfer (from the original negative) & Restoration + HDR
New DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo/5.1 Surround Italian & English
New Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani & Nathaniel Thompson
New 4K Theatrical Trailers

BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES
New 4K Transfer (from the original negative) & Restoration
New DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo/5.1 Surround English & Italian
New Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani & Nathaniel Thompson
New Interview with cinematographer Massimo Di Venanzo (2024)
New Isolated Score by Pino Donaggio
Backstage with Tinto Brass (2000)
Theatrical Trailers
Photo Gallery

PRINT
Double-sided sleeve with original uncensored Italian poster art
20-page illustrated booklet with liner notes by Eugenio Ercolani and Domenico Monetti
Slipcase
4K UHD Exclusive first pressing: 4x Repro Italian Lobby Card prints

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[photo courtesy of CULT EPICS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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