The Sessions
dir. Ben Lewin · 2012
Feature
Identity Crisis
Mood
Romantic / Contemplative
Look
warm, intimate cinematography with a focus on close-ups and soft lighting
Structure
episodic with a focus on personal milestones
Plot
Though a childhood bout with polio left him dependent on an iron lung, Mark O'Brien maintains a career as a journalist and poet. A writing assignment dealing with sex and the disabled piques Mark's curiosity, and he decides to investigate the possibility of experiencing sex himself. When his overtures toward a caregiver scare her away, he books an appointment with sex surrogate Cheryl Cohen-Greene to lose his virginity.
Why watch
"The Sessions" is a poignant exploration of intimacy and desire, where humor meets vulnerability in the quest for connection. This film invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of sexuality and the human experience, making it a heartfelt journey that resonates deeply.
Talking points
- the intersection of disability and sexuality
- the role of humor in serious topics
- the impact of intimacy on personal identity
- societal attitudes towards sex and disability
Cultural context
societal perceptions of disabilitythe evolving conversation around sexuality and intimacythe role of humor in coping with adversitythe representation of marginalized voices in cinema