Absolutely brilliant

A brilliant film that helped define a genre

There are women in the film, but none has anything you could call a personality.

I am only giving this movie a 1 for the great cast, though I can't imagine what any of them were thinking. This movie was horrible

In a Film sure to appeal to a open minded, compassionate crowd, John Hawkes plays Mark O'Brien. An pollio victim at 6, who lives his life mostly confined in a Iron Lung. Each day a attendant comes to his home to help with his basic human needs. Now the movie begins when he turns 38, Mark decides he wants to lose his virginity. With the help of his priest played by none other than William H Macy, Mark learns about a Sex Surrogate who is experienced with people having special needs or disabilities. This is where Mark is introduced to Cheryl, played by Academy Award Winner Helen Hunt. She is hired by Mark for just 6 sessions, in which the goal is to achieve Sexual Intercourse. From here the film goes back in forth between Mark during the sessions, and his reactions and interaction with his priest and attendants. Mark is a poet and possesses an excellent sense of humor, so it is very touching and real to go on the journey with him, as film is based on a true story. Helen Hunt is the real deal as Cheryl and leads the cast with class. This movie will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye. Bravo !!

Mark is a man with a fully crippled body, struggling every day to enjoy his short life, a life which is dependent of his "Iron Lung". He is able to leave the premises of his house only for a couple of hours (as much as his oxygen tank allowed) and the presence of an attendant is mandatory at all time. As a poet, he never managed to achieve a lifetime goal, mostly due to his very difficult condition, but a sudden change of events will open an unprecedented chapter in his life. He meets an understanding priest and with his guidance, he starts receiving some unusual therapy which will fulfill his unknown desires.It's a dramatic film which features the complicated life of a crippled man and his struggles in a modern society. Although it is pretty touching, it manages to insert key comedy moments which will definitely put a smile on your marked face. It saddened me, it moved me and it made me laugh. An unexpected combination which makes this one an unique movie. It was also a bit too predictable for my taste and it focused a bit too much on the "therapy" scenes, neglecting some other aspects but it is worth your time nevertheless.

Shocking that Helen Hunt took on this role, it posed a real challenge. Just saw her in "Twister" hours earlier and it was hard to make the transition. However, I am so glad she did this. Her acting skills in the tenderness, caring, and empathy department are unparalleled. The connection she established in such a short time frame, within a professional environment, was nothing short of amazing.I related to his crippling disability and the limitations of life that he sought to overcome, albeit with humor and a great attitude. Anyone who has experienced this situation would not pass judgement on his need for intimacy and connection. His priest, the venerable Mr. Macy, was a total crackup and one that would never last in my congregation. San Francisco, love it or hate it, does embrace the fringe of society which includes those who don't fit in physically.I actually learned something about setting boundaries, a tough subject to address with impact. I thought she was a bit rough addressing his sensitive concerns, but found her forceful nature made him calmer with her confidence. Talking so directly about physical intimacy is hard to do, especially when you are young, but is a challenge even in later years. I found her manner interesting and something to consider for future encounters.I was surprised to find this film so deeply emotional. Most likely due to the extremely heartfelt acting, the tragic situation, the uplifting triumph, and the inspirational ending. High recommend for disabled isolated outcasts, those looking for a loving connection and a solid religious interaction.

One of Helen Hunts best.Hunts empathy toward the inflicted man John Hawkes was touching, and moved me.William Macy was brilliant, as usual. I enjoyed his performance, a truly gifted actor.John Hawkes, what can I say, but he nailed it.Director & writer Ben Lewin did a remarkable job telling a heart wrenching story.Although difficult to watch if your an open wound of emotion like myself, be ready to cry. However I would watch it again. I have one spoiler, or more than a warning. Helen Hunt's character does appear nude. So if you are offended by nudity you might want to wait until it comes out on basic cable.The emotional journey is riveting in this movie. I avoided specific's on purpose' as not to spoil it for a new audience.This is my first review, I hope it helps this film to reach others.