Sex Thief Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's release of "The Sex Thief" lands on Blu-ray with a 1080p, AVC-encoded transfer that maintains its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1. Utilizing original 35mm material, the transfer unfortunately reveals all the marks of a well-worn print, evident in the frequent presence of chunky white specks, small scratches, and errant debris. Despite this, the higher resolution of the true HD transfer does significantly improve detail and clarity, particularly in facial features and clothing textures. The colors and contrast are balanced fairly well for a film of this caliber, with highlights sufficiently bright and black levels avoiding excessive crushing of shadow detail.

However, not all is flawless. The drab color scheme, coupled with problematic dark scenes where blacks become impenetrable, hamper the overall visual experience. Nonetheless, the transfer's raw approach—devoid of digital noise reduction or edge enhancement—delivers an image true to its source. This candid preservation lends an authentic grindhouse texture, as if one is viewing it in a vintage theater. While not visually pristine or demo-worthy, this Blu-ray release of "The Sex Thief" undeniably offers the most detailed and faithful representation yet for home video.

The DTS-HD Master Audio mono track on the Blu-ray of "Sex Thief" presents numerous challenges indicative of significant source damage. Persistent hiss permeates most scenes, occasionally escalating into more disruptive buzzing, particularly during the sequence featuring the washed-up Hollywood starlet. This buzz is pronounced and lasts for over two to three minutes, potentially urging viewers to lower the volume until the scene concludes. Intermittent pops, crackles, and volume fluctuations are additional issues that detract from the listening experience. Despite these challenges, dialogue remains largely intelligible, albeit without any subtitles for added clarity.

Dynamic range on this track is limited, and the mono presentation lacks the spatial depth and directionality found in more modern audio formats. Yet, the sound design matches the film’s stylistic tone, underscored by its unconventional music. The soundtrack alternates between stereotypical 1970s adult film orchestrations and quaint British instrumentation, featuring flutes, softly strummed guitars, and delicate drum patterns. Although the mono track is far from pristine, it strangely complements the era-appropriate quirky musical score, serving as a reminder of the film's uniquely eclectic charm despite technical imperfections.

The Blu-ray release of "Sex Thief" unfortunately lacks any bonus material. With no commentary tracks, behind-the-scenes features, or even a basic trailer, this disc is devoid of any added value that would enhance the viewing experience or provide further context to Martin Campbell’s work. Such an oversight is disappointing for collectors and cinema enthusiasts who typically seek out extras to delve deeper into the film’s creation and impact. This missing content diminishes the overall appeal of this Blu-ray.

Extras included in this disc:

• None

"The Sex Thief," directed by Martin Campbell, is a quintessential example of the low-budget 1970's British sex comedy genre. This movie blends cheeky innuendo with playful humor, while David Warbeck's portrayal of Grant Henry—a novelist cum cat burglar—delivers an engaging performance reminiscent of a comedic James Bond. Despite being riddled with dated and somewhat misogynistic overtones, the film offers a nostalgic throwback to an era where such softcore depictions seemed almost innocent compared to contemporary explicit content.

In "The Sex Thief," Warbeck's character employs a unique modus operandi, seducing the wives of wealthy men to gain access to their jewels, orchestrating humorous scenarios with wildly inaccurate police descriptions offered by these beguiled women. The plot introduces Scotland Yard's Inspector Robert Smith and insurance agent Judy Martin, whose quirky attempts to catch the thief add an entertaining layer to the narrative. Diane Keen stands out as Judy, showcasing a balance of authenticity and comedic timing, although the storyline’s sexist premise and crude humor often undermine these strong performances.

Martin Campbell's direction hints at the potential he would later fulfill in his career, notably with his James Bond films. The comedic and sex scenes are executed with an exaggerated, almost parodic fervor, and moments like Grant and his secretary’s antics with a vibrating head massager emphasize the film's bawdy nature. Although lacking in genuine erotic appeal, “The Sex Thief” succeeds as light-hearted, comically exaggerated entertainment. It's a revealing glimpse into Campbell's early career—a foundational piece that's more about its place in cinema history than its cinematic quality.

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "The Sex Thief" offers a peek into Martin Campbell's early directorial work, displaying an interesting, if unrefined, facet of his career which later saw him directing major films like "Casino Royale." The film itself is a comedic romp characterized by its cheeky and bawdy humor, providing ample nudity and awkward sexual escapades that might amuse those nostalgic for 1970s fare. However, the humor often feels too broad and crass, failing to offer significant substance or wit.

The lack of bonus content significantly impacts the appeal of this Blu-ray release, as it does not provide additional insight or value to the main feature. The cinematographic quality retains its vintage charm but does not reveal any directorial prowess that foreshadows Campbell's future successes. The comedic performances are generally subpar, with the actors struggling to elevate the material beyond its crude and simplistic setups.

In conclusion, "The Sex Thief" stands more as a curiosity piece than a genuine must-watch. While it may cater to those with a specific interest in retro sex comedies or Martin Campbell's complete body of work, it is not a film that stands on its own merit. The absence of supplementary content further diminishes its value. Hence, while it might be worth a look for fans of the genre or completists, it doesn't earn a strong recommendation for purchase.