Greenaway's philosophy of more-is-better permeates his films in their design (Almodovar's just subletting a room in Greenaway's neon house) and in themes: the father-son combo in 8 1/2 Women populate their newly barren house with concubines (hence the title). Greenaway may strive for Fellini-esque madness (the concubine idea is hatched after a screening of that ode to indecision, 8 1/2), but he tries too hard. 8 1/2 Women manages to be both pretentious and silly, not an easy balance to achieve. This film is of absolutely no interest to anyone not working on a Greenaway grad school thesis. The acting is inconsequential, the plot inane, the characters shallow (although the father-son incest will likely be a new thing for most viewers), and the comedy... well... not funny.

PICTURE:
Greenaway is known for his visuals and there are some interesting uses of colors and framing here. The transfer seems ok and is anamorphic.

AUDIO:
The lack of music leaves just a dialog heavy track that certainly won't dazzle anyone.

EXTRAS:
Only a trailer is included. Perhaps a Greenaway commentary track would help enlighten, but I doubt it.

FINAL THOUGHTS:
Fans of Greenaway's previous films may enjoy it but as a work that has to stand on it's own, 8 1/2 Women is simply limp.

Gil Jawetz is a graphic designer, video director, and t-shirt designer. He lives in Brooklyn.