Review of Shortbus (2006) by Leif S — 26 Nov 2008

Director John Cameron Mitchell delivers an unbridled look at the New York City underground, focusing on a group of hipsters who frequent a downtown club renowned for its lascivious ways. Through graphic polymorphous sexual couplings -- and using an ensemble cast composed largely of first-time actors -- the film chronicles each character's erotic journey of self-discovery in a raw and riveting fashion.

Here are my thoughts to share:

-For anyone with a curiosity about self awareness and discovery towards either love and/or lust...see this movie.

-For anyone attempting to understand both the simplicity and the complexity of intimacy and excitement in relationships...see this movie.

I found Shortbus to be sometimes mildly, at times wildly erotic, humorous, heart-wrenching, graphic, conflicting, disturbing, delicate, enlightening, painful yet never shameful....and wonderfully thought provoking! While I was not shocked by many of the scenes and storylines, I found myself surprised to see it revealed so unapologetically on film...and yet mesmerized by the characters and story development. Some of the scenes might be perceived as bizarre to blatantly perverse, but by whose judgement? However, I came to appreciate their place in the overall conveyance of story telling and/or character identity. The characters are gay, straight, bi-sexual and sometimes uncertain...yet the story is love and at times perhaps lust. Nudity and sexually graphic scenes are prevalent...some may think excessive ...however I believe climactic (sorry I had to use that) in effectively revealing the diversity and intensity of human nature. Depending on your perspective this may come across as softly pornographic..only with a great story line and without the cheesy music.

If you can keep an open mind regarding some of the sexual content of this movie, perhaps you may come away with a different understanding, awareness or acceptance of self...or perhaps another. Even if you don't relate to any particular character, I believe everyone can value the sensitivity of individual understanding and the need to be truthfully conscious of our words and actions in our world as well as the impact of those around us. Shortbus is a love story that makes us aware of how deep love, pain and memories become so much a part of who we are and how we see ourselves. How denial can restrict, even cripple us......while acceptance can bring joyful celebration. If you are daring enough to take the journey to watch......Expect the un-expected!