Shortbus

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: October 13, 2006

DVD Release Date: March 13, 2007

Plot 411: A movie that reveals a lot of skin but its themes penetrate far beyond skin deep.

Review: Realistically, I think this movie takes more than a single viewing to even begin to grasp at its themes. However, I've got to admit that I've only seen it once and it was several years ago. The plot focuses on Sofia (Sook-Yin Lee), a sex therapist who has never experienced an orgasm. Ironic isn't it? During one of her sessions, she meets a gay couple, James (Paul Dawson) and Jamie (PJ DeBoy), who are interested in opening up their relationship. They invite her to a weekly hipster, underground club that is basically a social, sexual and artistic orgy of humanity. Sophia's eyes are opened to the different kinds of intimacy that people share with one another. The plot also focuses on James, who continuously films his life and his relationships. To say this movie is extremely explicit in its portrayal of sex would be an understatement. Was it uncomfortable to watch, even alone? Yes. Was it pornographic? No. Sex, intimacy and nudity are all used to develop the plot and characters. They're not used for the purpose of erotic arousal, although some scenes are sensual. Artistically, I found this movie to be really cutting edge and pushing the boundaries of people's perception of love and sex. Even the conception of the storyline and characters was organic to the film and conceived through workshops and ad libbing by the actors.

Watch It: And have your mind blown.

Skip It: If you're easily offended or embarrassed by nudity and intimate scenes.