This is a great investigation into the challenge of having a merely sexual relationship with someone without letting emotions come into it. But, eventually emotions come into it because sex is more than just the release of biological urges. The two main characters Josh and Cin are perfectly portrayed by their players David and Susie. I'm sure they would have put a bit of themselves into their roles. The toughest part would have been filming the sex scenes and for the director filming the scenes without a hint of pornography. My rating: 8/10
29 Reviews
Frank and Funny Romantic Comedy
noralee12 December 2005
"Better Than Sex" is yet another mostly bedroom two-hander on a relationship, like "About Last Night" and "Breaking Up," but is quite charmingly done in a frank and funny tone.
With a gimmick of a time-bound, three-day relationship setting the limits, the talking to the camera by the two lovers and their friends works as a way to show what's going through their heads. This technique is especially useful when dealing with the visual problem foreign movies have grappled with but American movies have avoided since "Klute" (especially "Pretty Woman"): how to show when sex changes with feelings.
There is a touch of magic realism with a bemused cab driver, but she also could be their whimsical thoughts.
The Australian actors are not of the pencil-thin/gym worked-out American variety, but are lustily and cheerily robust as we see quite a bit of them.
What was confusing was the order their days together are presented -- did my projectionist mix up the reels or was the print I saw mixed up? At one point one character says "We've already had our first fight," which hadn't happened yet, and he leaves with a bag he hadn't brought over. But then later both the fight and the bag appear. I also got confused as to what was which with an indication of "The Third Day" vs. "The Last Day." There's a possibility it was shown out of order for emotional effect, but then I think the changed red sheets didn't appear at the end.
The Aussie pop songs are nice, but incidental and hardly noticeable.
(originally written 11/17/2001)
With a gimmick of a time-bound, three-day relationship setting the limits, the talking to the camera by the two lovers and their friends works as a way to show what's going through their heads. This technique is especially useful when dealing with the visual problem foreign movies have grappled with but American movies have avoided since "Klute" (especially "Pretty Woman"): how to show when sex changes with feelings.
There is a touch of magic realism with a bemused cab driver, but she also could be their whimsical thoughts.
The Australian actors are not of the pencil-thin/gym worked-out American variety, but are lustily and cheerily robust as we see quite a bit of them.
What was confusing was the order their days together are presented -- did my projectionist mix up the reels or was the print I saw mixed up? At one point one character says "We've already had our first fight," which hadn't happened yet, and he leaves with a bag he hadn't brought over. But then later both the fight and the bag appear. I also got confused as to what was which with an indication of "The Third Day" vs. "The Last Day." There's a possibility it was shown out of order for emotional effect, but then I think the changed red sheets didn't appear at the end.
The Aussie pop songs are nice, but incidental and hardly noticeable.
(originally written 11/17/2001)
If you have ever been single and dating--you can relate!
reelcrazed8 October 2003
Warning: Spoilers
You don't even have to be the type to sleep around to relate to this movie. We have all played the head games, we've doubted ourselves after making a move, we wonder if they really mean to call you, etc. I found myself laughing at the "confessionals" with the characters thinking out loud, I was nodding my head and saying "been there, done that!" many times through the movie. The getting ready to go out part was a bit tedious, but recognizable none the less. There is A LOT OF SEX in this movie, but if you can get past all of the moaning and groaning, it is quite charming.
***SPOILER***
I had to laugh at Josh telling Cin that she'd be good with a snorkel. I guess this is a reference to Wenham's character of Diver Dan on Aussie TV.
***END SPOILER***
***SPOILER***
I had to laugh at Josh telling Cin that she'd be good with a snorkel. I guess this is a reference to Wenham's character of Diver Dan on Aussie TV.
***END SPOILER***
Gentle, romantic, stage-play-like relationship study
jbskmr30 August 2003
This film is simple in plot line---the growth from a one-night stand of a relationship that is expected to end as one party has to leave in a few days---but manages to build the characters with a mixture of soliloquy, quick comment from friends, reaction to fast sexual progression, and so on. It gives the feeling that it was once a stage play, but does not suffer for this. It has a few amusing weird bits, like the taxi driver. It is no blockbuster, but it is well-acted, well photographed, well scripted, has an interesting ending, and is generally warming, while succeeding admirably in making you see the characters without seeing their appearance.
Better than a poke in the eye with a burnt stick
tonyhic19 April 2001
But not better than sex. This was a NICE movie. However, it's all been done before, and there was nothing to make it really stand out. What's more, bits of it irritated me.
I liked the fact that the two leads were not your typical romantic leads in the looks department. Great bods, but quirky faces. It made a nice change. A bit closer to reality, that is until you see them wake up after a night of raunchy sex with perfect hair and make-up, not a trace of sleep in the eye or dribble on the lips.
And there was a shot of "the blokes" where they were all siting around the teev, with beer on the coffee table. Realistic, n'est-ce pas? Not when all the beer is Crown lager. What a sell-out! I wonder who sponsored the post-production booze-up for this movie. Shame!
I liked the fact that the two leads were not your typical romantic leads in the looks department. Great bods, but quirky faces. It made a nice change. A bit closer to reality, that is until you see them wake up after a night of raunchy sex with perfect hair and make-up, not a trace of sleep in the eye or dribble on the lips.
And there was a shot of "the blokes" where they were all siting around the teev, with beer on the coffee table. Realistic, n'est-ce pas? Not when all the beer is Crown lager. What a sell-out! I wonder who sponsored the post-production booze-up for this movie. Shame!
..no surprises.. two very enjoyable performances
bjarias12 June 2015
For such a simple storyline (everyone watching knows exactly where it's going from the get-go), it's a surprisingly entertaining little film. And it's the pair of lead actors without a doubt that completely make it work. You let time pass and watch it again, it has the same effect.. it's just a cute little lighthearted fairytale story that most guys will say sucks (except times when she gets naked).. and most women would enjoy. Only thing a bit awkward is the ending. She's completely set up with friends and the whole life think on the opposite side of the pond.. why would she be ditching it all (we've met and know all her friends) to go live in London? Just cause he's there?. He could be living anywhere, as he's off shooting pix of animals most all the time. Only thing made no sense at all... IMHO.
Forgettable and not too entertaining Aussie comedy.
Quirky-10 October 2002
Warning: Spoilers
**Possible Spoilers**
I picked this up not expecting too much and must say I wasn't disappointed. David Wenham and Susie Porter, Josh and Cynthia respectively, are two twenty something Australians who meet at a party and decide to get together for a night of 'no strings attached' sex. After a few days, they've become quite inseperable, which leads to much angst for the pair. For a film with a short running time (85 minutes), it feels much too long, despite the energy of the leads. One of my problems with it is the theatrical delivery of some scenes - many asides with non-characters giving their opinions and providing gossip. The majority of these deliveries become tiresome and repetitive. (This is only emphasised by the fact that there is only three characters given names and the rest are marginalised.) Not particularly funny, this is just another stab at the 'quirky comedy' that Australian cinema has mastered. A tedious 85 minutes.
I picked this up not expecting too much and must say I wasn't disappointed. David Wenham and Susie Porter, Josh and Cynthia respectively, are two twenty something Australians who meet at a party and decide to get together for a night of 'no strings attached' sex. After a few days, they've become quite inseperable, which leads to much angst for the pair. For a film with a short running time (85 minutes), it feels much too long, despite the energy of the leads. One of my problems with it is the theatrical delivery of some scenes - many asides with non-characters giving their opinions and providing gossip. The majority of these deliveries become tiresome and repetitive. (This is only emphasised by the fact that there is only three characters given names and the rest are marginalised.) Not particularly funny, this is just another stab at the 'quirky comedy' that Australian cinema has mastered. A tedious 85 minutes.
Finally, a real woman in a sexy romantic comedy!
Bladerunner•7 September 2005
I get so tired seeing heroin thin, twenty-somethings in romantic comedies, especially ones with lots of nudity. This one has the luminous Susie Porter reclining, pacing and prancing around nude, with the most fantastic confidence and comfort with her body. She doesn't have the perfect body mind you, but the type that I love more than a Hagen-Daz milkshake. She's got some meat on her bones, but she isn't fat. She is voluptuous, curvaceous, with the sweetest milky white, freckled skin. Her smile can take your breath away, and her eyes seem like they can see every lie you've ever told, and you want her to know. She's a WOMAN, a real woman, not some kid trying to be a woman. Most times with *women* you get lots of trying to be younger, but Susie LIVES in her body, her soul is older, wiser and more mature. She knows how to treat a man too. She lets a guy be a guy without sacrificing her will or self-esteem. Oh, I'm supposed to review this movie... OK...
Basically in this excellent flick you are watching two adults fall in love. Both are mature and confident, but they're leery of jumping into a relationship, but it never lingers on past baggage, and nobody needs to "get free" of some obstacle before they can continue. I've found that women rarely say they're ready for love, or looking for love, but if it presents itself to them they won't chase it off. Basically a woman is never NOT ready to fall in love, and this movie does a great job of showing men how a woman who isn't even THINKING about falling in love, can. It also illustrates luxuriously how head games, lies and bullsh*t are NOT the way to enjoy falling in love. Most young people think that head games are the only way to get what you want, or how to protect your heart, which is toss-all. Here two people say what they mean and mean what they say, and what they don't say they don't say because they're not sure yet that they feel it.
Have you ever met someone and it just clicked and while it was clicking you spent a day or three in bed? This movie sumptuously wallows in that intoxicating experience. These two people devour each other sexually and while they do, passion blossoms and intimacy becomes more and more desirable. I can't remember a movie that so eloquently illustrates the difference between lust and passion, between sex and intimacy.
Buy this movie now, you will not regret it, but watch it with a lover because watching it while you're single will make you jones too much for the real thing and that could be depressing. View it with someone you love and it could re-kindle a little magic, it will at least get you laughing and getting aroused in the same room.
A movie about adults for adults that makes you feel like a kid.
Basically in this excellent flick you are watching two adults fall in love. Both are mature and confident, but they're leery of jumping into a relationship, but it never lingers on past baggage, and nobody needs to "get free" of some obstacle before they can continue. I've found that women rarely say they're ready for love, or looking for love, but if it presents itself to them they won't chase it off. Basically a woman is never NOT ready to fall in love, and this movie does a great job of showing men how a woman who isn't even THINKING about falling in love, can. It also illustrates luxuriously how head games, lies and bullsh*t are NOT the way to enjoy falling in love. Most young people think that head games are the only way to get what you want, or how to protect your heart, which is toss-all. Here two people say what they mean and mean what they say, and what they don't say they don't say because they're not sure yet that they feel it.
Have you ever met someone and it just clicked and while it was clicking you spent a day or three in bed? This movie sumptuously wallows in that intoxicating experience. These two people devour each other sexually and while they do, passion blossoms and intimacy becomes more and more desirable. I can't remember a movie that so eloquently illustrates the difference between lust and passion, between sex and intimacy.
Buy this movie now, you will not regret it, but watch it with a lover because watching it while you're single will make you jones too much for the real thing and that could be depressing. View it with someone you love and it could re-kindle a little magic, it will at least get you laughing and getting aroused in the same room.
A movie about adults for adults that makes you feel like a kid.
If ever a title claimed too much...
Spleen6 August 2001
It's always instructive to watch films released no more than a year apart, tackling an identical subject, with many ideas in common, yet made in different countries and causally unrelated: take Australia's "Better Than Sex", and France's "A Pornographic Affair". It hurts to say it, but the French completely outclassed us. (AND they got in first.) But you don't have to see the French film to work out what's wrong with this one. English critic Cosmo Landsman put it best: "There's nothing here you couldn't learn by reading 'Cosmopolitan'."
I have nothing against 'Cosmopolitan', but before starting work on a project like this you must decide if you wants to create a "How Compatible Are You?" quiz, or a work of art; its one or the other. They bathe the paper on which 'Cosmopolitan' magazines are printed in a kind of aesthetic disinfectant, and this film has gone through a similar process. The acting is good. It's the one feature of Australian films... And, I should admit, there's enough real humour to make it all wash down easily. But I got the uncomfortable feeling afterwards that I hadn't seen a movie at all. The taxi driver, who could have been a delightful fantasy element, was instead an embarrassingly naked cop-out, and that's what the device of interviewing the central protagonists turned out to be, too. Two films handled it much better: "When Harry Met Sally", and the French film. There was a point to the device in both cases. In "When Harry..." it's an outside-the-narrative device, placing the two central characters in the context of a larger world; in the French film, it's an INSIDE-the-narrative device, letting us know that the central characters have since reflected on the past. In "Better Than Sex" it's just a clumsy extravagance.
I have nothing against 'Cosmopolitan', but before starting work on a project like this you must decide if you wants to create a "How Compatible Are You?" quiz, or a work of art; its one or the other. They bathe the paper on which 'Cosmopolitan' magazines are printed in a kind of aesthetic disinfectant, and this film has gone through a similar process. The acting is good. It's the one feature of Australian films... And, I should admit, there's enough real humour to make it all wash down easily. But I got the uncomfortable feeling afterwards that I hadn't seen a movie at all. The taxi driver, who could have been a delightful fantasy element, was instead an embarrassingly naked cop-out, and that's what the device of interviewing the central protagonists turned out to be, too. Two films handled it much better: "When Harry Met Sally", and the French film. There was a point to the device in both cases. In "When Harry..." it's an outside-the-narrative device, placing the two central characters in the context of a larger world; in the French film, it's an INSIDE-the-narrative device, letting us know that the central characters have since reflected on the past. In "Better Than Sex" it's just a clumsy extravagance.
What is better than sex? This film.....
Audrey J12 October 2000
This movie is very very good. It is highly enjoyable, definitely a couples movie. David Wenham and Suzie Porter are great as the leads, they are definitely one of the only screen couples that actually had chemistry, it was amazing to see. It is very funny, and very sexy, and very Aussie, what else can you ask for in a movie?
The direction in this movie is very well done, the story is good, I really loved this movie. And at times this film is better than sex! Congrats to the Producers you have yourselves a winning movie. 10/10 from me!!!
The direction in this movie is very well done, the story is good, I really loved this movie. And at times this film is better than sex! Congrats to the Producers you have yourselves a winning movie. 10/10 from me!!!
Relies too heavily on clichés
itamarscomix19 March 2012
This Australian rom-com deserves some credit for portraying a relationship in a sincere, mature manner, not idealizing sex nor demonizing it; the story itself is surprisingly realistic and very easy to relate to. Also commendable is the fact that Jonathan Teplitzky is quite able at writing both woman's and man's dialog, equally and realistically.
Teplitzky is an able writer, but he made far too many mistakes in the movie to make it a good one. The taxi driver's character is a complete misstep, that comes off pretentious and clumsy, the music is irritating, and the voice-over telling us what the characters think comes up in arbitrary moments and leaves us confused as to what the characters thought and what they actually said. The dialog is realistic most of the time but the delivery - especially Susie Porter's - is often flat and lacking in emotion, which is especially painful when she delivers lines like "I want sex. I love sex" or "I love you" (while getting it from behind, no less) completely deadpan. It doesn't help that the two leads - while they're by no means bad actors - have no on-screen chemistry whatsoever and their emotions are never believable.
Most jarring of all are the random interview segments, on cheap generic backdrops, that seem like a cheap rip-off of When Harry Met Sally and Annie Hall, and serve no purpose. The people being interviewed aren't interesting, and they don't make any comment of interest about relationships and sex; instead these segments rely on the oldest relationship clichés in the book - Men leave the toilet seat up? Women take a long time to get dressed? Men like getting oral sex? Really? That's the big problem with the movie - Teplitzky wanted to make a relationship movie about experiences we can all relate to, but he made it so generic that he forgot to add anything of his own.
Teplitzky is an able writer, but he made far too many mistakes in the movie to make it a good one. The taxi driver's character is a complete misstep, that comes off pretentious and clumsy, the music is irritating, and the voice-over telling us what the characters think comes up in arbitrary moments and leaves us confused as to what the characters thought and what they actually said. The dialog is realistic most of the time but the delivery - especially Susie Porter's - is often flat and lacking in emotion, which is especially painful when she delivers lines like "I want sex. I love sex" or "I love you" (while getting it from behind, no less) completely deadpan. It doesn't help that the two leads - while they're by no means bad actors - have no on-screen chemistry whatsoever and their emotions are never believable.
Most jarring of all are the random interview segments, on cheap generic backdrops, that seem like a cheap rip-off of When Harry Met Sally and Annie Hall, and serve no purpose. The people being interviewed aren't interesting, and they don't make any comment of interest about relationships and sex; instead these segments rely on the oldest relationship clichés in the book - Men leave the toilet seat up? Women take a long time to get dressed? Men like getting oral sex? Really? That's the big problem with the movie - Teplitzky wanted to make a relationship movie about experiences we can all relate to, but he made it so generic that he forgot to add anything of his own.
Not sure about better but as much fun!
ceallaig-118 January 2004
The only bad thing I can say about this film is the fact that it took nearly four years for it to reach the US. The tag line pretty much sums it up -- what was intended as a one night stand turns into more than the participants expect. Sexy -- definitely (I may never look at wildlife documentaries quite the same way again); funny -- in many places hilarious, especially when examining the Mars/Venus aspect of burgeoning relationships (toilet seats, dressing time); and surprisingly sweet. The stars are charming, attractive and very real, and are ably supported by the rest of the cast, particularly the actress (whose name I now can't remember, my apologies!) who plays the cabbie who doubles as a relationship counselor.
There's a saying that life is what happens when you're busy making plans -- perhaps love is what can happen when you're busy having sex, if you let it. Well worth your time, and share it with a friend.
There's a saying that life is what happens when you're busy making plans -- perhaps love is what can happen when you're busy having sex, if you let it. Well worth your time, and share it with a friend.
A delightful Australian comedy!
HotPants1317 November 2000
I really enjoyed this movie, it was very funny, sexy and the two leads (David Wenham and Susie Porter) were fantastic. I never for one second lost interest in this movie, there's always something going on, usually something funny. The supporting cast were good, especially Kris McQuade the taxi driver. The direction and script were really good, the music is very enjoyable, especially the music for the bath scene. Overall I think this is a great movie, and should be seen by all. 10/10 from me.
fantastic film...the sort of film every 20 -30 year old can relate to..
Marcey1324 July 2000
This film is so funny and everyone who watches this film in some way or another can relate to it..the acting is absolutely brilliant and it is a fantastic directiorial debut for Jonathon Teplitzky...The production is excellent...the film is predominantly shot in an apartment....very enjoyable film...
3 days in the life of a 1 night stand. Does this movie prove that love and relationships really are better than sex?'
Old Joe8 October 2003
There would be many people in the world that believe there many experiences that are better than sex. I am one person that has to agree, as I believe the world has a lot more to offer than just sex. This film, while being very sexually liberating for the characters that appear in it, is also very touching and funny for the audience that watches it. Although this movie deals with controversial issues involving sex, it is a film I believe any adult can enjoy. This is one classy Australian romantic comedy.
When Josh and Cin meet at a party and decide to spend the night together, it seems to them like the perfect solution. With Josh leaving in three days to go back overseas, what can possibly go wrong? It is one night of sex and the will never see each other again. What is there to get complicated? It will be fun without all the usual expectations. It is just sex. They both know that. But as their night stretches into another night, what seemed so safe and easy starts to get out of control. They both find themselves faced with the possibility that what they want is better than sex. But will either of them be able to admit it?
Taking on the roles of both the writer and director of BTS' was Jonathon Teplitzky. Jon wrote a very original and very witty script, getting help from script editor, comedy actress Genevieve Mooy. I am sure he did his homework on the issues relating to casual sex and what such an experience can be like. Then the way that he wrote these very unique to the camera' personalities into the screenplay was great, because I felt they were very well crafted characters. Also the use of voiceovers, as tool for us too hear what the two main characters are thinking while they are engaged in a very heavy sexual encounter were hilarious. I could not help but laugh when Josh is thinking of a cake recipe' to delay a climax, and when Cin says I love you' as she comes.
When in the director's chair Jonathon shows even more class. I feel the camera shots that Teplitzky gives only enhance the way we experience the movie, like the many different angles we see Josh and Cin in when they are in bed. The cinematographer, Garry Phillips does a great job in bringing off the shots Teplitzky wanted. Teplitzky also made this film a very fun experience to watch, and I believe it is through his direction that we are allowed to feel that way.
The main stars in this film were Josh (Aussie heartthrob David Wenham) and Cin (Susie Porter). Both are very good in their roles. They were very professional, considering that they had to share many sexually moments in the film. Both of these actors shared a chemistry that made you believe they could ever end in this sort of situation. It is my opinion that Wenham was born to play his role. These roles were extremely important in the success of the film, and I have to say both Wenham and Porter pulled them off.
There were other roles that I liked in the film. Sam (Catherine McClements) is an iffy friend of Cin. McClements is very good in her cameo performance in the movie, as her flirtatious ways would be concerning for any girlfriend to take, in front a prospective boyfriend. What happens when Sam officially meets Josh for the first time was very funny. There is also the character of the Taxi Driver (Kris McQuade). She was very observant when it came to Cin, as she knew what she was like. McQuade had a very deep husky voice, but for some reason I liked her role. There was also the great role taken on by people simply known as girls' or guys' in BTS. The Girls included B (Dina Gillespie), C (Emily Saunders), D (Laura Kennelly), E (Leah Vandenberg) and F (Tammy McIntosh), while Guys included A (Mark Priestly) B (Tamblyn Lord) C (Jason Clarke) D (Jason Chong) and E (Tim Richards). All these people, while not having major roles in the film, made this aspect of the movie very memorable for me.
The music of BTS was also a highlight of the film. Composer David Hirschfelder and his musical crew did a great job in giving this movie a really good feel. It is another movie that has had a very subtle by very effective score. I love the way Hirschfelder used such instruments as violins, guitars drums and pianos. The way Hirschfelder has the piano twinkling half way through the film was terrific. The good songs of the soundtrack include Gets me up by Sneak and Stay the same by Kylie Minogue.
This movie does not have many locations or characters, but that did not distract from how good a film it was. I think it only enhanced the film all the more, and made what was shown to seem all the greater. It would be safe to assume that many people have been in such a situation as the one presented in this film. If this is true, than what the movie showed would have only been more entertaining for that group of individuals/couples. This is a very good piece of Australian cinema, one that I highly recommend to you, if you are yet to see it.
CMRS gives Better than Sex': 4.5 (Very Good Brilliant Film)
When Josh and Cin meet at a party and decide to spend the night together, it seems to them like the perfect solution. With Josh leaving in three days to go back overseas, what can possibly go wrong? It is one night of sex and the will never see each other again. What is there to get complicated? It will be fun without all the usual expectations. It is just sex. They both know that. But as their night stretches into another night, what seemed so safe and easy starts to get out of control. They both find themselves faced with the possibility that what they want is better than sex. But will either of them be able to admit it?
Taking on the roles of both the writer and director of BTS' was Jonathon Teplitzky. Jon wrote a very original and very witty script, getting help from script editor, comedy actress Genevieve Mooy. I am sure he did his homework on the issues relating to casual sex and what such an experience can be like. Then the way that he wrote these very unique to the camera' personalities into the screenplay was great, because I felt they were very well crafted characters. Also the use of voiceovers, as tool for us too hear what the two main characters are thinking while they are engaged in a very heavy sexual encounter were hilarious. I could not help but laugh when Josh is thinking of a cake recipe' to delay a climax, and when Cin says I love you' as she comes.
When in the director's chair Jonathon shows even more class. I feel the camera shots that Teplitzky gives only enhance the way we experience the movie, like the many different angles we see Josh and Cin in when they are in bed. The cinematographer, Garry Phillips does a great job in bringing off the shots Teplitzky wanted. Teplitzky also made this film a very fun experience to watch, and I believe it is through his direction that we are allowed to feel that way.
The main stars in this film were Josh (Aussie heartthrob David Wenham) and Cin (Susie Porter). Both are very good in their roles. They were very professional, considering that they had to share many sexually moments in the film. Both of these actors shared a chemistry that made you believe they could ever end in this sort of situation. It is my opinion that Wenham was born to play his role. These roles were extremely important in the success of the film, and I have to say both Wenham and Porter pulled them off.
There were other roles that I liked in the film. Sam (Catherine McClements) is an iffy friend of Cin. McClements is very good in her cameo performance in the movie, as her flirtatious ways would be concerning for any girlfriend to take, in front a prospective boyfriend. What happens when Sam officially meets Josh for the first time was very funny. There is also the character of the Taxi Driver (Kris McQuade). She was very observant when it came to Cin, as she knew what she was like. McQuade had a very deep husky voice, but for some reason I liked her role. There was also the great role taken on by people simply known as girls' or guys' in BTS. The Girls included B (Dina Gillespie), C (Emily Saunders), D (Laura Kennelly), E (Leah Vandenberg) and F (Tammy McIntosh), while Guys included A (Mark Priestly) B (Tamblyn Lord) C (Jason Clarke) D (Jason Chong) and E (Tim Richards). All these people, while not having major roles in the film, made this aspect of the movie very memorable for me.
The music of BTS was also a highlight of the film. Composer David Hirschfelder and his musical crew did a great job in giving this movie a really good feel. It is another movie that has had a very subtle by very effective score. I love the way Hirschfelder used such instruments as violins, guitars drums and pianos. The way Hirschfelder has the piano twinkling half way through the film was terrific. The good songs of the soundtrack include Gets me up by Sneak and Stay the same by Kylie Minogue.
This movie does not have many locations or characters, but that did not distract from how good a film it was. I think it only enhanced the film all the more, and made what was shown to seem all the greater. It would be safe to assume that many people have been in such a situation as the one presented in this film. If this is true, than what the movie showed would have only been more entertaining for that group of individuals/couples. This is a very good piece of Australian cinema, one that I highly recommend to you, if you are yet to see it.
CMRS gives Better than Sex': 4.5 (Very Good Brilliant Film)
Character driven perfection. I agree, nothing is Better than Sex
siit7 January 2006
To be honest I cant get enough of 'Better than Sex'(BtS). I was thoroughly disappointed when the end credits began to roll. Since I viewed it on cable TV, I flipped a channel and watched it all over again. I hold very few movies in such an esteem to rate them 10/10. But BtS is definitely one of those rare diamonds.
BtS is a very intellectual and honest look at the dynamics of the one night stand, the following passion, the possibilities of more. Seen from both the male and female perspective it's so engaging to see and feel the raw honesty. As a male I was constantly agreeing, laughing, nodding and completely understanding Josh's (David Wenham) position with his actions and thoughts. I so loved the balancing female - Cin's (Susie Porter) perspective. I felt this was how it really is. BtS is an optimal example of reality.
From the initial meetings to the scared first steps, the initial sex to the first words the next day, the progression of knowing nothing to seeing the unfolding of a relationship not yet defined and blossoming. The doubts, insecurities, the ensuing pointless fights, walking out then making up. The development of passion and the emotional content that creeps in uncontrollably is magnificent in its simplicity and handling.
As an audience I became so drawn to the characters. I felt in tune with David Wenham's Character and was left with a crush on Susie Porter. This movie is all about character, development and that proverbial 'human condition. So basic I would assume it was filmed on a shoe string budget, but you never know it. The cinematography, camera angles, accompanying music, the introspective and intermittent 'interview' style was perfect. The sex scenes are tasteful and never 'dirty', the chemistry was electric between Josh and Cin.
I am not usually a fan of pure Australian film. But BtS showcases how an intellectual, witty, and powerful character driven story tackling a very real plot should be done. A definite movie to get... a saucy, raunchy and potentially winner of a movie to see with a new partner. However be warned, BtS is clearly marketed for adults that demand that bit more depth in the intellectual and honesty stakes.
A challenge: Try not to fall in love with either one or both of David Wenham or Susie Porter and their characters. And I bet you will love the Taxi driver :D
BtS is a very intellectual and honest look at the dynamics of the one night stand, the following passion, the possibilities of more. Seen from both the male and female perspective it's so engaging to see and feel the raw honesty. As a male I was constantly agreeing, laughing, nodding and completely understanding Josh's (David Wenham) position with his actions and thoughts. I so loved the balancing female - Cin's (Susie Porter) perspective. I felt this was how it really is. BtS is an optimal example of reality.
From the initial meetings to the scared first steps, the initial sex to the first words the next day, the progression of knowing nothing to seeing the unfolding of a relationship not yet defined and blossoming. The doubts, insecurities, the ensuing pointless fights, walking out then making up. The development of passion and the emotional content that creeps in uncontrollably is magnificent in its simplicity and handling.
As an audience I became so drawn to the characters. I felt in tune with David Wenham's Character and was left with a crush on Susie Porter. This movie is all about character, development and that proverbial 'human condition. So basic I would assume it was filmed on a shoe string budget, but you never know it. The cinematography, camera angles, accompanying music, the introspective and intermittent 'interview' style was perfect. The sex scenes are tasteful and never 'dirty', the chemistry was electric between Josh and Cin.
I am not usually a fan of pure Australian film. But BtS showcases how an intellectual, witty, and powerful character driven story tackling a very real plot should be done. A definite movie to get... a saucy, raunchy and potentially winner of a movie to see with a new partner. However be warned, BtS is clearly marketed for adults that demand that bit more depth in the intellectual and honesty stakes.
A challenge: Try not to fall in love with either one or both of David Wenham or Susie Porter and their characters. And I bet you will love the Taxi driver :D
A good lesson about the two different sex
zasaiko24 August 2005
I think that every boys/mans and women in the world should watch this film...because it 's quite true...and you will learn a lot about the opposite sex;) it's also quite original in the way it is filmed, the interviews...you have a lot of different point of views which are quite representative ...I'm speaking about women's point of view, of course...and i wonder if it's the same for boys. it may be not famous but it's worse to see it, believe me! Watch it either in couple or with friends...it doesn't matter as u can speak about it together! I've seen it with a friend, we had a lot of fun...than I saw it with my boyfriend, it was interesting...
Fun movie
andygoris23 August 2003
Since you will have already read the plot by now, let me just say this movie was a lot of fun! I rate it much higher than the other folks on imdb.com The taxi driver, the refrigerator scene, and the final airport scene all brought big smiles to my face. Not a movie for the kids - see it with a close friend.
Strikes a chord with late twenty and thirty somethings
hepburn-819 November 2000
I loved this movie as there were so many moments people in their late 20 somethings and 30 somethings could relate to. There's plenty of laughs and a few moments that leave you nodding, realising the right emotion has been touched and going: "Yep, been there and felt exactly that."
I absolutely love this film
Archibald3 July 2001
This is the third time i have seen this film, and i absolutely adore it :). It's so fresh, sexy and real. I would just crawl into the cinema seat, with my love and simply enjoy it. :) The photo session of the film is the one of the best, okay, they don't use such a camera and scenes to produce such shots there and then, but i don't care, it mixes great i think. The fact that both Josh and Cynthia is so usual gives the film an authentic look. :) Great sex scenes and the usual differences between man and woman on display. :)
Great, very funny, very sexy - possibly better than sex
myst__696 November 2000
I've just returned home from seeing the movie and well I cannot disagree with the previous few comments - it is very good.
Being an Ozzie I enjoyed David Wenham's performances on the TV series Seachange for instance but always found him a bit uncertain in his character - a point to which many women apparently disagree. I preferred his scabrous performances in Cosi and Boys for instance. But this film has expanded my appreciation of David - here he excels himself in a role Seachange fans will recognise, as a similar laid back very witty guy. Suzie Porter is a bubble of energy.
The two characters do have a chemistry and the sex scenes are very realistic without being revealing. They also have the usual neuroses - I loved the initial thoughts when they were in the taxi, at first daring themselves to start something and wondering if the other person was interested and then starting to worry about what they could be getting themselves into - all in the space of a minute without a word exchanged between them
I also loved the taxi driver - a very wise woman - who guides Josh through the stages of his developing relationship - telling him what she (Cin) is feeling and encouraging him to reveal his thoughts - almost as if she was a spider on the wall!
My slight disagreeances were Josh's departure outside the comforts of Cin's place to think etc (it jarred) and sometimes the music was overpowering but these are small quibbles.
Anyway highly recommended!
Being an Ozzie I enjoyed David Wenham's performances on the TV series Seachange for instance but always found him a bit uncertain in his character - a point to which many women apparently disagree. I preferred his scabrous performances in Cosi and Boys for instance. But this film has expanded my appreciation of David - here he excels himself in a role Seachange fans will recognise, as a similar laid back very witty guy. Suzie Porter is a bubble of energy.
The two characters do have a chemistry and the sex scenes are very realistic without being revealing. They also have the usual neuroses - I loved the initial thoughts when they were in the taxi, at first daring themselves to start something and wondering if the other person was interested and then starting to worry about what they could be getting themselves into - all in the space of a minute without a word exchanged between them
I also loved the taxi driver - a very wise woman - who guides Josh through the stages of his developing relationship - telling him what she (Cin) is feeling and encouraging him to reveal his thoughts - almost as if she was a spider on the wall!
My slight disagreeances were Josh's departure outside the comforts of Cin's place to think etc (it jarred) and sometimes the music was overpowering but these are small quibbles.
Anyway highly recommended!
Better Than Sex ... well just about!
strangie11 December 2000
This film from first time writer/director Jonathan Teplitzky is an ambitious venture and one that succeeds very well.
It follows the trials and tribulations of a "one night stand" that goes that little bit further.
Supurb acting from lead actors David Wenham and Susie Porter as well as a slick and funny script from Teplitzky make this a brilliant film. It leaves the audience in no doubt as to what is, indeed, Better Than Sex.
It follows the trials and tribulations of a "one night stand" that goes that little bit further.
Supurb acting from lead actors David Wenham and Susie Porter as well as a slick and funny script from Teplitzky make this a brilliant film. It leaves the audience in no doubt as to what is, indeed, Better Than Sex.
Better than Masturbation....
apt4f13 October 2001
True, this movie did make you feel as though you'd had indulged in reading the forbidden secrets of the opposite sex via some skeezy mag ( ieCosmo / Maxim ), but it was refreshingly honest, and grotesquely intimate. I like how up close and personal the camera gets..... celebrating every glorious flaw.
The cheezy backdrops during the mock interviews and the disappointing use of the taxi driver were minuses, but the accurate and equal argumental voices given to both the male and female was a crisp break from the "sex and the city" type shows out there that propagate the weak and ugly male and the insecure and scheming female stereotype.
Recommended.
The cheezy backdrops during the mock interviews and the disappointing use of the taxi driver were minuses, but the accurate and equal argumental voices given to both the male and female was a crisp break from the "sex and the city" type shows out there that propagate the weak and ugly male and the insecure and scheming female stereotype.
Recommended.
Freckles, Neck
tedg25 November 2003
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers herein.
This slight project has little to recommend it, except wonder at its reason for being.
But that is enough for me. See, the reason behind such a project is that the sexual charm of a woman - a certain woman - is an accelerating capture. Once some level of familiarity is breached, rapture is inevitable.
An old idea, to be sure. The only novelty is in how it is presented, which is primarily a matter of what charm and what woman is displayed. And that's what makes this so intriguing because Susie Porter is an unusual siren. Assuming that she is not Teplitzkys lover, she was selected because she has something leverageable in this department.
And that's what intrigues me, because indeed I checked this movie out because I had seen Porter in an other film (`Paradise Road') and she stuck to me. In that, she played a perky Australian Nurse, cropped hair but red.
Here she is blond - presumably to emphasize her skin, which features as a character in itself. This is an actress who acts with the upper bridge of her nose as focus. (Every actor has a single focus.) The rather shocking thing is that she has none of the attributes one normally associates with sexy actresses: she has a chunky build, weak eyes, an unsubmissive poise. She doesn't move gracefully. Her smile doesn't match any of the previously established cinematic patterns for appeal (something that, for instance is the sole asset of Julia Roberts and Meg Ryan).
I think the strategy here is frank directness. She spends a good part of her time looking at and speaking to the camera. There is a detached observation, emphasized by many sessions of sex where we hear her thoughts, and others where the talk is undetoured. Her girlfriends and even the taxidriver, re-enforce this.
Its funny. She didn't do it for me in this project, where it is the point, but she did just that in a film about women prisoners of war. Go figure.
The movie has one nice touch - the opening. The whole story is about the guy getting captured, and that opening shot is of him on the first morning with his arm stuck under her rather appealing neck. This neck, by the way features in the other very nice shot where it flows down her entire back while she plays the piano. That one shot - if you already know the neck - may make it worthwhile for those wondering about triggers in film appeal.
Our hero is a photographer, so he would think in this way.
Incidentally, her apartment is Shaker-sparse. A frank environment.
I have seen half of all the films Fireworks Pictures. I always find their wonderful logo the best part.
Ted's Evaluation -- 2 of 3: Has some interesting elements.
This slight project has little to recommend it, except wonder at its reason for being.
But that is enough for me. See, the reason behind such a project is that the sexual charm of a woman - a certain woman - is an accelerating capture. Once some level of familiarity is breached, rapture is inevitable.
An old idea, to be sure. The only novelty is in how it is presented, which is primarily a matter of what charm and what woman is displayed. And that's what makes this so intriguing because Susie Porter is an unusual siren. Assuming that she is not Teplitzkys lover, she was selected because she has something leverageable in this department.
And that's what intrigues me, because indeed I checked this movie out because I had seen Porter in an other film (`Paradise Road') and she stuck to me. In that, she played a perky Australian Nurse, cropped hair but red.
Here she is blond - presumably to emphasize her skin, which features as a character in itself. This is an actress who acts with the upper bridge of her nose as focus. (Every actor has a single focus.) The rather shocking thing is that she has none of the attributes one normally associates with sexy actresses: she has a chunky build, weak eyes, an unsubmissive poise. She doesn't move gracefully. Her smile doesn't match any of the previously established cinematic patterns for appeal (something that, for instance is the sole asset of Julia Roberts and Meg Ryan).
I think the strategy here is frank directness. She spends a good part of her time looking at and speaking to the camera. There is a detached observation, emphasized by many sessions of sex where we hear her thoughts, and others where the talk is undetoured. Her girlfriends and even the taxidriver, re-enforce this.
Its funny. She didn't do it for me in this project, where it is the point, but she did just that in a film about women prisoners of war. Go figure.
The movie has one nice touch - the opening. The whole story is about the guy getting captured, and that opening shot is of him on the first morning with his arm stuck under her rather appealing neck. This neck, by the way features in the other very nice shot where it flows down her entire back while she plays the piano. That one shot - if you already know the neck - may make it worthwhile for those wondering about triggers in film appeal.
Our hero is a photographer, so he would think in this way.
Incidentally, her apartment is Shaker-sparse. A frank environment.
I have seen half of all the films Fireworks Pictures. I always find their wonderful logo the best part.
Ted's Evaluation -- 2 of 3: Has some interesting elements.
** Dull and predictable
Bil-328 March 2001
Dry Australian romantic comedy about a couple who start off as a one-night stand and end up soaked in romance. The whole film takes place in the girl's apartment, watching them trying to go their separate ways after every bout of raunchy sex but constantly unable to part. The nudity and sexual content will shock some, but for those desensitized like me it will just show through as a director's way of disguising the fact that he doesn't have a very interesting story to tell. Susie Porter and David Wenham as the couple, however, are very fresh and enjoyable to watch.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
