Touchy Feely
Starring: Rosemarie DeWitt, Ellen Page, Josh Pais
Director: Lynn Shelton
Rating: 3.5/5
Lynn Shelton is back in the director's chair this week with her new film Touchy Feely.
Shelton has been behind films such as Humpday and Your Sister's Sister, and Touchy Feely is the first of two movies we will see from the director in 2014: Laggies is the second in the autumn.
Touchy Feely is a closely observed examination of a family whose delicate psychic balance suddenly unravels. Abby (DeWitt), is a sought after massage therapist and a free spirit, while her brother Paul (Pais) thrives on routine and convention, running a flagging dental practice and co-dependently enlisting the assistance of his emotionally stunted daughter Jenny (Page).
Suddenly, transformation touches everyone. Abby develops an uncontrollable aversion to bodily contact, which not only makes her occupation impossible but also severely hinders the passionate love life between her and her boyfriend (Scoot McNairy.)
If you are looking for a quirky movie to watch this weekend Touchy Feely is definitely one for you.
Shelton is a director who really likes exploring relationships in her movies, and that fine trend really does continue with Touchy Feely.
However, the relationships between the characters is not that cut and dry, and Shelton really makes the audience work hard as you try to figure them out: a side to the watching experience that I really enjoyed.
Shelton has brought together a terrific cast for the film, and they really are all on top form.
Everyone really does get their teeth into their characters, to deliver well-rounded and interesting performances: there really is no acting weak link here.
Rosemarie DeWitt gives another great performance in the central role of Abby, as she bumbles her way through life.
This is the second time that DeWitt has worked with Shelton, and the director really has got the best out of her this time around.
Perhaps some of the ideas and themes are not quite as followed through as you would like, but Touchy Feely is a charming and funny watch.
Touchy Feely is out now.