Helen Hunt and John Hawkes. Source: EW
Mark O'Brien (John Hawkes) is a well respected poet, who at the age of 38, decides he wants to lose his virginity. As a practicing Catholic, he struggles with the idea of paying someone to help him have sex. He's not hiring a prostitute, but rather a sex surrogate. With the support from his unorthodox priest (William H. Macy), Mark begins to attend sessions with Cheryl Cohen-Greene (Helen Hunt) who teaches him to be comfortable with his body and eventually helps experience sex for the first time.
As an independent film, The Sessions doesn't get nearly all the attention it deserves. Although it is meant to be charming and funny, there is a lot more complexity beneath the surface. The light-hearted nature of the film is countered with a sad truth that Mark will unlikely be able to share his new prowess with anyone else, and that he's fallen helplessly in love with Cheryl who can't reciprocate those feelings.
I've never seen a film quite like this one. Ben Lewin really pushed the envelope with this idea, brought to life by the beautiful acting. Hawkes and Hunt were absolutely breath taking. The Sessions was less about the story, and more about the journey of discovery that Mark embarks on with Cheryl. These were roles that required 100% dedication.
The film was raw and honest in a way that made you feel vulnerable. A simple story line with an intelligent and intricate development. At it's core, it's a film about love and desire. It leaves you appreciating the life you have and wanting more meaningful connections with the people you love.
Rating: 8.5/10
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