John Hawkes plays the extroverted Mark O Brien who is totally crippled by polio, and has to spend several hours every day ...in an iron lung. Based on a true story, O Brien died in 1999..aged 49. This movie deals with his life in 1938, when the bold Mark decides he wants to lose his virginity. He eventually gets lucky...when he meets an attractive and caring professional sex surrogate ...played by Helen Hunt. The relationship between Hunt and Hawkes is basically what the movie is all about. Its very well made, and the supporting players are all very good. O Brien had a reputation as a real character ...with an exceptional sense of humour. Hawkes does a great job in a difficult role, but I feel he was let down a little by the script. Sure he is mildly amusing at times, but he needed to be more sharply realized....a few great one liners would have lightened the load...for the viewer. It is still a movie I would recommend...for its high degree of sensitivity...in a controversial area. Hunt is wonderful here...in her greatest ever acting role.
Review of The Sessions
The Sessions
(2012)
Hunt.......Finally Acts Her Pants Off.....A Great Performance....
30 October 2013