The Sessions

Paralyzed by polio, Berkeley, CA-based journalist and poet Mark O'Brien (John Hawkes) spends most of his time in an iron lung. But when he's assigned to do an article on sex and the disabled, O'Brien realizes that—at the age of 38—it's time to lose his virginity. But how? Mark first consults new parish priest Father Brendan (William H. Macy), who opines that, in this particular instance, Jesus would probably give Mark a “pass” for sex without wedlock. Mark then enlists the services of a sex surrogate, Cheryl Cohen Greene (Oscar nominee Helen Hunt), who begins with “body awareness exercises.” Although Mark's muscles have atrophied, he can feel the sensation of touch on all parts of his body. Cheryl explains that the difference between her work and a prostitute's is that the latter wants return business, but she will only commit to six sessions. With that understanding, their friendship blossoms and grows into true intimacy. Although immobile, Mark is blessed with a perceptive mind and a wickedly self-deprecating sense of humor. Inspired by the real-life O'Brien's 1990 essay “On Seeing a Sex Surrogate,” the compassionate The Sessions was written and directed by Ben Lewin, a polio survivor. What shines here are the perceptive performances: back from her self-imposed screen hiatus, Hunt exudes unwavering integrity, Hawkes never rings false, and Macy brims with humanity. Adam Arkin, Moon Bloodgood, and Robin Weigert also deliver memorable support in this mature film that approaches a serious sexual subject with refreshing honesty. Recommended. (S. Granger)