Cheeky 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Cult Epics’ 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cheeky!" presents a substantial upgrade over earlier high-definition versions, offering a visually robust and often striking experience. The new transfer is sourced from a 4K restoration of the original 35mm camera negative, supervised for HDR10 grading, and presented in the original 1.66:1 aspect ratio on a dual-layered BD-66 disc. The resulting image boasts superb delineation, clarity, and depth, with organic medium grain and abundant fine detail that remain consistent throughout the presentation. Bitrates consistently inhabit the 80 to 100 Mbps range, supporting an uncompromised image that feels faithful to its photochemical origins. The overall color palette benefits from HDR, featuring strong contrast and deep blacks, while speckling is minimal and never distracting.

The upgrade in color reproduction stands out, but there are notable caveats. While the new master corrects many previous deficiencies, it introduces a modest shift in chromatic accuracy—primary blues often lean turquoise and this in turn influences secondary hues, notably affecting reds in various scenes. This is less disruptive given the film’s contemporary visual style, yet some scenes reveal clear discrepancies, such as miscolored hats and curtains. Visuals are at their best during outdoor sequences with ample natural light, which showcase the strengths of the 4K makeover. Additionally, the HDR grade manages shadow detail quite well in the native 4K presentation, but gamma inconsistencies can be detected in the standard 1080p version, along with occasional encoding artifacts. Despite these minor technical drawbacks, the 4K UHD edition offers the most accurate and attractive presentation of "Cheeky!" to date, making it a clear choice for those seeking the highest fidelity.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Cheeky" features four primary audio options: Italian DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, Italian DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. All tracks are offered in lossless DTS-HD, a notable upgrade from the previous, lossy release, and English subtitles are included for the Italian tracks. The two 5.1 surround mixes appear to be newly created for this edition.

Technically, both Italian and English tracks rely on overdubbing, but the quality of the Italian audio—particularly the stereo (2.0) track—is consistently preferred in professional assessments, given its authenticity and strong performance with dialogue clarity and music reproduction. While there aren’t dramatic dynamic contrasts, the transition to lossless audio is evident, especially during scenes where Pino Dinaggio’s score takes center stage. The 5.1 mixes provide a wider soundstage with music and effects distributed more expansively, though core elements like dialogue remain well-supported across all tracks. The English dub is serviceable; however, its quality does not match the Italian original and is further diminished by less convincing dubbing performance. Overall, each track is clean and well-balanced, giving listeners flexibility to choose based on their preference for language or spatial presentation.

The extras package for the "Cheeky" 4K UHD Blu-ray is both comprehensive and illuminating, offering substantial context on Tinto Brass's distinctive erotic filmmaking style. The newly recorded audio commentary by Eugenio Ercolani and Nathaniel Thompson delivers detailed analysis of Brass's overall career, his humor, and production anecdotes, while also situating "Cheeky" within Italian cinema. The collection benefits greatly from "Brassgressions and Other Diversions," a deep dive with cinematographer Massimo Di Venanzo, who discusses his collaborations with leading directors and shares insights on his creative partnership with Brass. The archival "Backstage" segment offers direct reflections from Brass on both his artistic process and his muse Yuliya Mayarchuk. Additionally, the inclusion of an isolated DTS-HD MA 5.1 score provides an opportunity to appreciate Pino Donaggio’s composition, while the photo gallery, trailers, a robust booklet essay, collectible art cards, and reversible cover further complete this deluxe package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani & Nathaniel Thompson: In-depth discussion on Tinto Brass’s career, style, and "Cheeky’s" place in his oeuvre.
• Brassgressions and Other Diversions: Interview with cinematographer Massimo Di Venanzo on his career and work with Brass.
• Backstage with Tinto Brass: Archival featurette focusing on Brass’s philosophy and behind-the-scenes production insights.
• Isolated Score: Full score by Pino Donaggio in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.
• Photo Gallery: Collection of 21 production stills from the film.
• Trailers: Previews of "Cheeky" and other Cult Epics Tinto Brass titles.
• Booklet: 20-page illustrated essay and technical notes on the production.
• Art Cards: Set of four collectible cards.
• Reversible Cover: Features original Italian poster art.

Tinto Brass’ "Cheeky!" (2000) offers a characteristically vibrant study of sexual freedom, desire, and personal discovery, set against the backdrop of cosmopolitan London. The narrative is notably straightforward, following Carla (Yuliya Mayarchuk) as she navigates a series of sensual and comic encounters while searching for an apartment. Supporting characters such as Moira (Francesca Nunzi) and Matteo (Jarno Berardi) are woven into Carla’s journey, contributing to a playful, uninhibited atmosphere emblematic of Brass’s oeuvre. The film prioritizes erotic imagery—most notably through recurring camera attention to the female form—but intertwines these visual motifs with flourishes of humor and subtle narrative commentary on relationships, jealousy, and fidelity.

While the story deals with themes of infidelity and personal boundaries, the tone remains light, steered by Brass’s distinctly celebratory approach to sexuality. The direction refrains from vulgarity, instead echoing an appreciation for beauty reminiscent of classical art. Performances are generally effective: Mayarchuk displays notable enthusiasm in her lead role, and Nunzi brings the right sensibility to her part, complementing the film's playful tone. Pino Donaggio’s soundtrack provides an unexpectedly rich musical backdrop, augmenting the whimsical and seductive character of the film. Overall, "Cheeky!" exemplifies Brass’s late-career approach—blending comedic eroticism with an earnest exploration of sexual identity.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cheeky!" delivers a notable visual upgrade for Tinto Brass’ late-period erotic comedy, presenting the film with impressive clarity and color depth. The restoration handles grain and detail with care, offering vibrant flesh tones and well-balanced contrast that complement the director’s visual style. While the image quality is a marked improvement over previous home video releases, there remains some room for more robust refinement in certain scenes. Nevertheless, the overall presentation provides an accessible and aesthetically pleasing way to experience Brass’ signature combination of playful humor and sensuality.

In terms of supplemental material, the package is robust. The audio commentary, led by Eugenio Ercolani and Nathaniel Thompson, offers valuable context on Brass’ place in Italian cinema and the evolution of the erotic comedy genre, enriching the viewing experience with relevant historical insight. The included vintage featurette—documenting the film’s on-set production—alongside a new interview with cinematographer Massimo Di Venanzo, gives viewers a welcome look behind the scenes, delving into both technical craft and artistic intent. Additional extras such as an isolated score featuring Pino Donaggio’s music, a photo gallery, and a collection of trailers further round out a comprehensive supplemental package.

In conclusion, this 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Cheeky!" is a compelling release for both fans of Tinto Brass and enthusiasts of Italian genre cinema. Although there are areas that could benefit from even stronger technical execution, the disc’s upgrade in picture quality and wealth of extras make it an engaging and worthwhile addition to any collector’s shelf.