LFF 2012: The Sessions ****

Once in a while there is a film that on paper seems totally different to how it’s actually perceived, and because of its plotline could be a hard sell at the cinema. Writer-director Ben Lewin’s The Sessions is such a film. However, appearances are truly deceptive here, and this feel-good drama is full of inspirational moments, warmth and delightful humour that resonates like an understated breath of fresh air, without shamelessly tugging at the heartstrings to leave us with defining moments.

The Sessions is based on the autobiographical writings of 38-year-old California-based journalist Mark O’Brien (John Hawkes), a talented writer and poet confined to an iron lung contraption due to Polio. He longs for the touch of a woman in the sexual sense and seeks to lose his virginity, with the help of his therapists and the guidance of his local, liberal-minded priest (William H. Macy). After being referred to sex surrogate Cheryl (Helen Hunt), O’Brien finds new experiences and opportunities for gaining personal fulfilment, while simultaneously touching all those around him in the process.

Instantly, The Sessions brings you into another being’s world and pace of life that settles you for the journey ahead. This is exactly what is needed for us to understand O’Brien’s personality and dry sense of humour. It also demonstrates his likeability, without any other distractions in place – as the supporting cast leave the stage open to his presence, reacting to his thoughts and comments while beautifully complimenting them.

Hawkes who is best known for his recent disturbing roles, like cult leader Patrick in last year’s Martha Marcy May Marlene and Teardrop in Winter’s Bone (2010), is quite marvellous as quick-witted and quietly charming O’Brien, moving us swiftly past his character’s disability and turning this story into one man’s search for love that touches and affects deeply but gradually, as we get to know O’Brien. Breaking up the emotional moments are wordy rifts with H. Macy as Father Brendan, who judges O’Brien only through the limitations of his ministerial position, but rising above these to see the bigger picture – hence the fresh and inviting take this film has in the faith sense on the matter of sex outside of wedlock.

However, all power and acting prowess to Hunt as Cheryl who really has the space to explore and evolve her intriguing character as she confronts Cheryl’s own issues while helping O’Brien. Hunt focuses our attention away from the obvious (like her nakedness) and manages to turn the usual screen sexual activity into one very normal, almost mildly ridiculous act that it takes a back seat to more important matters of companionship and feelings. It’s not clinical as such, and never loses the sentimentality. However, it has a positive and healthy attitude surrounded by warm humour about lovemaking and what toleration and give and take should imply. This is The Session’s hidden gem, and is unsurprising that Hunt’s performance has been recognised in the Awards season.

The Sessions is a wonderfully unique cinematic lesson in love and understanding that goes down smoothly with anyone willing to take a chance on the ‘oddball’ at the box office this week, reaffirming our faith in humanity and relationships.

4/5 stars

By @FilmGazer

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