Jun. 18, 1999|Mexico|107 Min.|R
Genre: Adult;Comedy;Drama;Romance
Description: Tomás returns to Mexico after seven years of traveling the world to visit his friends, Carlos and Ana, who are struggling in their relationship. Ana, who was once romantically involved with Tomás, is seduced by him, leading Carlos to throw Tomás out of their home. Instead of Tomás leaving, Ana moves across the street to live with their friends Miguel and Andrea, another couple facing their own relationship issues.
The situation escalates into a battle of the sexes when Miguel is kicked out for cheating on Andrea and joins the “men’s group” across the street. Meanwhile, María, their mutual friend, sides with the women in a boycott against all men. Tomás then becomes involved with Andrea, but their affair is exposed. Realizing the emptiness of his life, Tomás makes a dramatic scene at a local nightclub before declaring his love for Ana and seemingly attempting suicide by walking into an elevator shaft.
While the film’s title might evoke comparisons to more nuanced works, it lacks the subtlety and depth of films like Steven Soderbergh’s hits. Instead, it relies on exaggerated antics, stereotypical characters, and a superficial take on modern relationships, aiming to mimic the style of directors like Pedro Almodóvar. The film’s portrayal of sexual politics and relationships feels more inspired by cinematic tropes than grounded in reality, making it a tiresome experience for many viewers.
*Sex, Shame, and Tears* (Spanish: *Sexo, pudor y lágrimas*) is a Mexican film that marked the second wave of the country’s cinematic revival, often referred to as the New Era of Mexican Cinema. Directed by Antonio Serrano in his directorial debut, the film is based on his own successful play of the same name. Upon its release, it became a major box-office success in Mexico, earning MX$118 million (approximately US$10.9 million) and attracting over eight million viewers during its 27-week run.
Cast director: Antonio Serrano
Cast actor: Demián Bichir, Cecilia Suárez, Susana Zabaleta, Jorge Salinas, Victor Hugo Martín, Angélica Aragón, Mónica Dionne
Original name: Sexo, pudor y lágrimas