The Key is another erotic drama from Tinto Brass and while it might not have the strongest story, it is a classy looking movie at the very least and although this isn’t my favorite type of film, I can appreciate the passion that went into it.
The Key
(1983)
Genre(s): Drama
Cult Epics | NR – 111 min. – $49.95 | March 24, 2026
Date Published: 04/27/2026 | Author: The Movieman
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Cult Epics provided me with a free copy of the Blu-ray I reviewed in this Blog Post.
The opinions I share are my own.
THE MOVIE — 3/5 |
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Plot synopsis: Art professor Nino (FRANK FINLAY) feels he can no longer satisfy his younger, passionate wife Teresa (STEFANIA SANDRELLI) the way she desires. He articulates his innermost thoughts and sexual fantasies in a diary, including the secret wish to see his daughter’s fiancée’s Lazlo (FRANCO BRANCIAROLI) make love to Teresa. Nino leaves the key in a drawer, containing the diary, out for wife to find. Quick Hit Review: Tinto Brass certainly was a colorful character in the interviews I’ve watched and his movies, which were erotic cinema, did look far better than the material demanded and while I’m not an avid watcher of porn in general (doesn’t do much for me), I can appreciate that Brass took an artistic eye. Outside of that, there’s not a whole lot to admire as the actors go through their motions but obviously lack the acting ability being they are adult actors. |
SPECIAL FEATURES – 4/5 |
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This release comes with a matted slip cover and the inside artwork, which itself is different from the slip, is reversible. Inside is a 20-page illustrated booklet. Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani and Marcus Stiglegger, both film historians on Tinto Brass talking about the project and its impact. Interviews:
Keyhole Venice (7:34) —This featurette takes a tour of the filming locations. Score by Ennio Morricone (32:05) is a selection of his score for the movie played over a film still. Outtakes Venice (10:14) is extra footage from the film of location shots in Venice. Galleries
Tinto Brass Trailers include The Key, Cheeky!, Frivolous Lola and All Ladies Do It |
4K ULTRA HD VIDEO – 5/5, BLU-RAY REVIEW – 4½/5 |
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Cult Epics releases The Key onto 4K Ultra HD (and Blu-ray) which has been restored from the original negative. As a film released back in 1983 it is a great looking transfer. Detail is sharp and well defined throughout and colors show a good balance with the black levels which show no signs of artifacts or aliasing while the color is in keeping with the time and no apparent boost or oversaturation. |
AUDIO – 4/5 |
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The disc comes with a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track which is more than suitable for a movie likes this. Dialogue is clear and the classy music comes through quite nicely especially for a movie going on 30 years and probably not the highest quality sound equipment. |
OVERALL — 3½/5 |
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The Key is another erotic drama from Tinto Brass and while it might not have the strongest story, it is a classy looking movie at the very least and although this isn’t my favorite type of film, I can appreciate the passion that went into it. This 4K UHD release by Cult Epics features a fantast video and strong audio to go along with a good amount of bonus features. |