Bliss

Less a narrative than it is a how-to video for Tantric sex techniques, Bliss is bound to move off the shelves simply because it's less embarrassing to pick up a box without the words Penthouse or Playboy on the cover. The story begins as an intriguing, well-acted study of newlyweds (Craig Sheffer and Sheryl Lee) facing a variety of problems in therapy, a study which takes on delicate subjects with a welcome frankness. Then the couple comes into contact with an unconventional sex therapist (Terence Stamp), and Bliss promptly turns into a soft-core marital aid where characters become close-up body parts. The heavy-handed plot turns and forced psychology only serve to suggest that writer/director Lance Young is trying too hard to wrap a feature film around his erotic philosophy. Viewers will want to pick up Bliss, but it won't be for its dramatic subtlety. It will serve its function best with a judicious hand on the fast forward button, and a notepad at the ready. Optional. (S. Renshaw)