The Sessions (2012) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Sessions (2012) is a poignant drama directed by Ben Lewin, based on the true story of journalist and poet Mark O’Brien. Starring John Hawkes, Helen Hunt, and William H. Macy, the film explores themes of disability, sexuality, and personal fulfillment with sensitivity and depth. It is celebrated for its heartfelt performances and unique approach to its subject matter. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, style, and where to watch it online.
The Plot: A Journey of Self-Discovery
The Sessions follows Mark O’Brien (John Hawkes), a 38-year-old man with polio who is confined to an iron lung and is unable to move beyond his neck. Despite his physical limitations, Mark is determined to experience intimacy and explore his sexuality. He decides to hire a sex surrogate, Cheryl Cohen-Greene (Helen Hunt), to help him achieve this goal.
The film depicts Mark’s journey as he prepares for his sessions with Cheryl, exploring his emotions, desires, and vulnerabilities. It also examines his relationships with his caregivers and his spiritual beliefs, as he seeks to reconcile his physical limitations with his quest for a fulfilling and meaningful life.
The narrative is both touching and humorous, capturing the complexities of Mark’s experience and the dynamics between him, Cheryl, and the people around him.
Themes and Style: Disability, Intimacy, and Empowerment
The Sessions tackles themes of disability, intimacy, and personal empowerment. The film addresses the challenges and stigmas associated with physical disability while also celebrating the potential for personal growth and self-discovery.
The style of the film is characterized by its compassionate and respectful portrayal of its subjects. Ben Lewin’s direction ensures that the story remains grounded and authentic, focusing on the emotional and human aspects of Mark’s journey. The film balances its dramatic elements with moments of humor and warmth, creating a well-rounded and engaging narrative.
The performances are a key component of the film’s impact, with the actors delivering nuanced and deeply felt portrayals that bring the story to life.
Performances: Powerful and Authentic
The performances in The Sessions are integral to its success:
- John Hawkes as Mark O’Brien delivers a remarkable and deeply moving performance, capturing the character’s physical limitations and emotional depth with sensitivity and authenticity. His portrayal adds significant weight to the film’s exploration of disability and intimacy.
- Helen Hunt as Cheryl Cohen-Greene provides a compassionate and nuanced performance, portraying the sex surrogate with empathy and professionalism. Her role is central to the film’s exploration of intimacy and personal boundaries.
- William H. Macy as Father Brendan, Mark’s priest, adds depth to the film with his portrayal of the spiritual advisor who supports Mark’s journey. His performance enhances the film’s exploration of faith and personal belief.
Where to Watch The Sessions (2012) Online
If you’re interested in watching The Sessions (2012), here are the best platforms where you can stream, rent, or purchase the movie online:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. If you don’t have a Prime membership, you can also rent or purchase the film directly.
- Hulu: Check availability on Hulu’s platform. The film may occasionally be available as part of the streaming service’s offerings.
Rental/Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or buy the movie, consider the following platforms:
- Apple iTunes: Rent or purchase The Sessions on iTunes, with the option to watch on various Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rent or purchase on Google Play, accessible across different devices.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options with high-definition streaming.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy the movie directly on YouTube, convenient for streaming on any internet-connected device.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt and Thought-Provoking Drama
The Sessions (2012) is a heartfelt and thought-provoking drama that provides a compassionate and nuanced exploration of disability, intimacy, and personal fulfillment. With its strong performances and sensitive storytelling, the film offers a moving and memorable viewing experience.
With various streaming and rental options available, you can easily experience this powerful and engaging film. Whether you’re interested in stories of personal triumph or simply seeking a well-crafted drama, The Sessions offers a compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic journey.
