A Spanking in Paradise

I watched 'A Spanking in Paradise' at last night's Scottish BAFTA screening in Glasgow. I didn't really know what to expect - though i suppose the title may have given something away - but I was completely blown over. Through Justin, the very handsome lead character, we're introduced to the hilarious goings on at the 'Birds of Paradise Sauna,' one of Scotland's many licensed brothels. As I women I wasn't that aware that they existed in the numbers that they do. And the various characters he meets during his stay are larger than life, one of which I'm still chuckling about this morning. At times, it's hard to say weather this film is a comedy with darker moments, or a drama with comedy woven through it. But for me that was all part of this enjoyable watching experience. This film is not 'The English Patient' so shoulder be viewed as such. But in the days of remakes and sequels, and risk adversed commissioners and studios, it was genuinely refreshing to see something so original. You can do a lot worse than spending 94 minutes in the Birds of Paradise Sauna.

Thought this film had a great title and the premise was pretty intriguing, so went to see it at the cinema last night at midnight. I was worried I wouldn't stay awake, but it kept me laughing all the way through. I like British comedy, though this was different as a bit more gritty. It felt like a pretty realistic, and therefore at times slightly depressing portrayal of what being a hooker is like, but the majority of the film doesn't focus on this, and is funny and occasionally slapstick. Every now and then it serves up a complete curve ball, and has you laughing out loud. All in all I enjoyed it and would recommend it.

If you're a fan of Scottish movies and TV, you'll definitely want to see A Spanking in Paradise. (If you're not yet a fan, work your way up via gentler movies - anything by Bill Forsyth, for example. Or Caton-Jones' Our Ladies.)

A Spanking in Paradise is not an easy movie to describe. It's got elements of gangster films. It's a look at the seedy side of life. It's a family drama. And more. Once it gets rolling, the story is fairly straightforward, but never predictable: a straight-laced young lawyer comes to Edinburgh to spend some time working for his uncle. That work gets him involved with the uncle's brothel and various other even more questionable endeavors. He ends up learning a lot about survival on the lower rungs of society.

A spicing of Scottish irony and self-deprecation makes what could be a sordid little tale much more fun than you might expect. Nothing resolves in the obvious way. The characters, even in the worst moments, remain believable and - if not admirable - remarkably likable.

Despite the grimy subject matter, this is a smart, classy movie. Give it a chance, don't get put off by the slow build up - or the racy situations.

Really enjoyed this movie. Why bother to write a review? - because also watched Chatroom (2010) movie in same session which was shockingly rubbish - 10% on rotten tomatoes - didn't know could be rated that low!! Important when film-makers get it right especially with restricted budget that they are recognised. I heard of Spanking in Paradise from article in a magazine interviewing the director. Can see where the authenticity comes from! Don't expect big special effects, explosions etc - its all in the dialogue and characters who are all quirky and funny. It won two awards in Edinburgh Film Festival and was named on the best of the festival list. Not quite new Trainspotting as some enthusiastic critics have said but very very good.

A hilarious insight into Edinburgh's seedy sex world of brothels. Fresh outspoken comedy at it's fullest with a dash of grit and a drizzle of seriously sexy women. The characters in this movie will have you rolling around your seats with laughter and keep you on the edge with suspense. Being an Edinburg o myself i felt I could relate to the characters well and was intrigued by their hilarious tales of foreign adventures, transvestites and extravagant chases from the police down Leith walk. I like a film that not only makes me laugh but sustains a level of dramatic intensity throughout and 'A Spanking In Paradise' delivers in every scene. The lead character Justin is portrayed ever so well by Andrew Hawley and every step he takes deeper into the underground world of Edinburgh, you feel you are there with him. Sit back and relax as your about to get a spanking!