Directed by Bigas Luna the film was a big success in Spain in 1993. It never received a release in the United States [or if it did it was very small] but because it stars Javier Bardem and has Bernicio Del Toro in a small role it is soon to be available [March 8th] on DVD in Region one.

Benito Gonzales (Bardem) is an ambitious man who has a lust for women and wealth. When his dancer/prostitute girlfriend leaves him he decides to focus on wealth. A few years go by and he manages to get a gangster as a business partner as well as a big enough loan from the bank to start. Then he begins to work on women again.

He meets a beautiful dancer named Marta (Maribel Verdu from Y Tu Mama Tambien). She convinces him to marry the banker's daughter (Maria de Medeiro) to get what he wants. He does that and then eventually invites Marta to be part of his marriage, which she does. From there trouble begins to brew. The films seems to ask; "how long can Benito keep his erection and still achieve his dreams?"

Golden Balls is very well directed, well acted and at 95 minutes zips by in a flash. There are phallic symbols all over the place and Javier proves - like the young Gerard Depardieu - that he could be both an intriguing actor and a sex symbol.

If there is any drawback to the film it is that things move so quickly that motivation often seems lost. But director Bigas Luna directs scenes with big flourishes and isn't afraid to overreach for the sake of his art. Plus, his framing, his visual style and his talent for staging scenes is excellent. For that reason the film is worth a look.

Video:
The DVD is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic and looks great. [The DVD box says 1.85:1] The colors are saturated very well and the contrast of each frame is excellent. There is no noticeable artefact or edge enhancement.

Audio:
Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 Spanish with English subtitles.

Extras:
No extras other than a trailer or Golden Balls as well as trailers for other Spanish films including Sound of the Sea [By Bigas Luna), Masterpiece, Dying of Laughter, God is on the Air and Common Wealth.

Overall:
At once sexy, sexist, bold, funny and tragic Golden Balls is a very good Spanish film from 1993 that is just now getting released in the U.S. The DVD doesn't offer much but it looks and sounds great. Recommended.