The
Sessions is a nice performance based independent film, one which deals with
drama and comedy with the same light touch. There is nothing remarkably daring
or profound within the screenplay based on a true story written by filmmaker
Ben Lewin. In fact, some aspects of the film feel too safe for an independent
film, even if the subject matter would suggest material more risqué or daring.
This is a safe little film which is ultimately a performance piece within a
dramedy.
John
Hawkes stars as Mark O’Brien, a poet and journalist who has been paralyzed and
confined to an iron lung since childhood. Despite his handicaps, he was able to
attend a university and receive a degree, and can even provide for himself with
a job. The one thing he has never gotten around to accomplishing is the manhood
rite of passage that is losing his virginity. As a devout Catholic, Mark seeks
counsel from his priest (William H. Macy), who is more than encouraging in the
endeavor.
Mark
seeks out a sex therapist (Helen Hunt), whose professional attitude and kind
demeanor help the uncomfortable paralyzed 38-year-old have sex for the first
time. They have a finite number of sessions together before the arrangement is
completed, and the meetings inevitably become about more than just mere
intercourse. There are some awkward bits within the screenplay, but even those
are glossed over so quickly that this often feels like a Hollywood
imitation rather than the edginess I would have once expected from an
independent film.
The
Blu-ray includes a number of features, from deleted scenes to a handful of
featurettes. There are some real-life behind-the-scenes featurettes, to show
the inspiration behind the story. There are also featurettes for each of the
main actors, who are showcased within the film and have been the highest
selling point during this award season. There is also a general featurette
about the cast.
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