Matej Chlupacek & Michal Samir's Touchless is a dark psychological drama that examines sexual abuse, and the long term ill-effect it can have on the abused psyche. The story centers aroun Jolana, a teenager girl, who at the complete mercy of her stepdad. This is a film that blurs reality and protagonist's inner psyche to such a degree, that it becomes nearly impossible to understand what is real and what is merely a young woman's impression of herself after years of abuse. As the film progresses, we see Jolana working at a brothel, a willing recipient and participant in various sexual games. What the film never makes clear, probably intentionally, is whether this strong sexual creatures which Jolana has become is a reality or merely a mental viewpoint of a woman who views herself as worthless outside of her ability to perform carnal pleasures. As one could imagine from the synopsis alone, Touchless is an uncomfortable experience that is full of tension and unease throughout its 70 minute running time. Thematically the film is very much about the connection between sexual pleasure and compassion/companionship with Jolana never fully realizing their is a difference thanks to her step-father's complete control. While this is an interesting psychological study of a damaged character I found the film to not be nearly as emotionally resonant as it should be, needing far more exposition centered around Jolana, showing how she got into such a dark place. Some people would argue that exposition isn't necessary but with the way this film is structured it becomes confusing and unfocused because of this lack of detail early in the film. Touchless is a solid film exploring a very taboo topic that I wish had a longer running time to help flesh out its various thematic and character dynamics. 6.5/10
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AuthorLove of all things cinema brought me here. Archives
June 2023
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