Sex and the Other Woman

Sex and the Other Woman is a classic British comedy film from the early '70s released in 1972. Directed by Stanley Long and produced by Stanley A. Long, the film stars Bartlett Mullins, Peggy Ann Clifford, and Maggie Wright in lead roles.

The revolving plot of the movie is based on a series of five timeless vignettes, each exploring different facets and dimensions of extramarital affairs, fidelity, and relationships from a humorous lens. The film takes an amusing approach to what is conventionally considered a serious issue, sending ripples of laughter with its excellent comic timing and well-penned humorous dialogues.

Bartlett Mullins stars as Arthur, a moderately successful businessman who always finds himself entangled in tricky situations due to his ever-existing temptations for the "other woman". His penchant for landing into one scandalous affair after another forms the crux of the story. Mullins delivers a commendably entertaining performance, injecting his character with a unique combination of humor, charm, naivety, and conviction. His timing with comical lines is impressive, adding a distinct flavor to the film.

Peggy Ann Clifford plays the role of Arthur's long-suffering wife, who is aware of his infidelities yet continues to exhibit impeccable patience and tolerance. Her passive aggression and witty comebacks offer a delightful contrast to Mullins' character. Peggy's character presents a fascinating paradox of a caring wife who is cleverly managing to retain her husband's loyalty while subtly putting a check on his inclination towards outside affairs. She has performed this delicate balancing act with sheer grace and wit, making her character's journey intriguing to watch.

Maggie Wright appears in the film as Tanya, one of the other women that Arthur has an affair with. Her character is sensuous, enticing, and charming, who effortlessly involves Arthur in an extramarital affair. Despite her character's seemingly negative disposition, viewers may end up having a soft corner for Tanya due to Wright’s captivating portrayal of the role.

Enhancing these character portrayals are the film's clever script, the humorous situations it sets up, and the light-hearted banter between characters. The movie rides high on situational humor rather than relying on crude jokes and slapstick comedy.

Stanley Long establishes himself as a capable director who can bring out the best in dark humor through everyday life situations. Despite the serious nature of the issue it deals with, Sex and the Other Woman successful in making the audience laugh at the scenarios it plays out. Long does a commendable job of presenting the indiscretions and adventures of Arthur with plenty of humor and a touch of humanity.

The film is also noteworthy for its portrayal of the evolving social dynamics of the '70s British society. A realistic portrayal of gender roles, societal judgments, and the delicate matters of heart and lust make the movie more palatable and enjoyable for the progressive audience.

From a technical standpoint, the film exhibits typical aspects of the '70s British cinema, such as vintage cinematography and art design, which evoke nostalgia for that era. The costumes and make-up for the characters are in line with the period's fashion, further adding authenticity to the film's setting. The music, composed by John Shakespeare, feels suited for the comedy-drama genre of the film and complements the essence of the story.

To summarise, Sex and the Other Woman is a light-hearted, engaging, and often times, thought-provoking film. Despite its plot centered around characteristically serious societal issues like infidelity and extramarital affairs, the movie expertly weaves its narrative with humor and wits, leaving the audience entertained. It is a film for those who enjoy social comedies with a dash of relationship confusions, told through the lens of the progressive British society of the '70s. Even after four decades since its release, Sex and the Other Woman retains the charm and appeal of the classic British humor.