Sex, Lies And Videotape (1989)

Set in Louisiana, a young housewife (Andie MacDowell) is in therapy where she discusses her less than happy marriage. When an old school friend (James Spader) of her husband's (Peter Gallagher) returns to town, he becomes their house guest and his presence will be a pivotal moment in their lives including that of her sister (Laura San Giacomo). Written and directed by Steven Soderbergh (in his feature film debbut), a good argument could be made that it was the film that fueled the independent film movement of the 1990s. A critical sensation (it won the Cannes film festival Palme d'Or), it remains a riveting examination of intimacy, both sexual and emotional, and treachery in relationships. Soderbergh makes you feel like a fly on the wall, a voyeur to these characters' most private moments. It's a perfect ensemble drama with just four protagonists and only two other supporting characters. All the performances shine but the film is owned by Andie MacDowell, who brings an unexpected depth to her Southern belle turned housewife. This is movie making for grown ups at its best. With Steven Brill and Ron Vawter.