Kirby Dick's (This Film Is Not Yet Rated) documentary Private Practices dates from 1985, when the profession of sexual surrogate was still, so to speak, in its infancy. But even 20-plus-years later, this profile of Maureen Sullivan, a young California woman who helped men overcome sexual dysfunction through gradually developed physical intimacy remains an enlightening film. Dick follows Sullivan's interactions with two clients, from initial meetings to final farewells: Kipper, an inordinately shy graduate student, and John, a recently divorced man convinced that his marriage failed because of his sexual inadequacies. Sullivan gently brings these men out of their emotional shells through increasingly intimate physical contact (although no explicit sex is shown) and carefully chosen compliments to help them overcome their problems. Private Practices is not simply well-meaning pillow talk; the film not only explores the background of the men through interviews with families, friends, and therapists, but also Sullivan's history (one of the most affecting moments comes when Sullivan and her brother have a conversation with their father and confront some painful memories). DVD extras include an audio commentary (interview) with Dick, as well as the text of a 2008 interview with Sullivan. A sensitive and rather touching treatment of a controversial form of therapy, this powerful documentary is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Private Practices: The Story of a Sex Surrogate
(1985) 75 min. DVD: $29.99. Zeitgeist Films (avail. from most distributors). Volume 24, Issue 2
Private Practices: The Story of a Sex Surrogate
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