‘Touch Me’ Review: A Wacky Horror Film That Never Fully Realizes Its Satirical Ambition

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Touch Me” opens captivatingly in a therapist’s office, where Joey (Olivia Taylor Dudley), struggling with OCD and past traumas, shares an extraordinary tale. She encounters a seductive alien from another realm, and describes their passionate relationship. According to her narrative, not only was the intimacy pleasurable, but his touch instantly alleviated all her worries. The story unfolds as this extraterrestrial figure disrupts Joey’s life. Unfortunately, what director Addison Heiman presents visually of this being and his realm fails to live up to the ominous implications Taylor Dudley’s performance conveys about Joey’s character’s encounter.

Joey leads an itinerant life, taking on various temporary jobs to barely get by. She hasn’t managed to secure chances for her artistic pursuits. She shares a home with her wealthy gay friend Craig (Jordan Gavaris). Unfortunately, a plumbing issue in their house leaves it smelling foul and uninhabitable, forcing them to seek alternative accommodation. They end up moving in with Joey’s alien friend, who goes by the name Brian when he assumes human form (portrayed by Lou Taylor Pucci). Brian resides with his assistant Laura (Marlene Forte), who claims to be human despite her actions being more peculiar than Brian’s.

Following this point, these four characters find themselves entangled in a complex web of interdependent relationships marked by shifting loyalties and hidden desires. Craig, battling anxiety, turns to Brian for solace, creating tension within their friendship. Laura feels a green-eyed monster towards Joey’s connection with Brian, yearning for him herself. Brian manipulates the other three for purposes that remain shrouded, at least initially. This intricate dynamic results in chaos, characterized by explicit scenes, violence, and abundant bloodshed – fitting for a film debuting in Sundance’s Midnight category.

1. The personalities of these characters are quirky and somewhat uncomfortable, ensuring viewers will stay intrigued temporarily. Brian frequently dons tracksuits and enjoys dancing. Laura flaunts her attention towards the alien while attempting to keep the other two at bay. Due to their fascination with Brian and fear of Laura, Joey and Craig momentarily forget they’re friends and potential allies. Heiman delays disclosing the alien’s ability to have sexual relations with humans for a while, but when it is eventually revealed, it turns out to be more amusing than shocking.

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2. The characters are oddly peculiar and slightly unsettling, making viewers curious initially. Brian often wears tracksuits and dances. Laura displays her infatuation with the alien while trying to prevent the others from approaching him. Overwhelmed by their fascination for Brian and fear of Laura, Joey and Craig momentarily neglect their friendship and possible alliance. Heiman keeps the secret about the alien’s ability to engage in sexual activities with humans hidden, but when it is finally exposed, it turns out to be more humorous than surprising.

In my perspective, the movie initially explores the complexities of codependent relationships and a self-centered immature character who manages to control those around him. However, as the narrative twists and turns in various directions, the satirical element seems to fade away. Director Heiman employs diverse techniques such as split screens, surreal dreamlike sequences, and abundant gore and dismemberment to maintain audience engagement, yet these elements fail to hold my interest effectively. The storyline becomes excessively intricate, and a concluding part admitting that nothing is coherent and should not be taken literally feels like a hasty resolution. It appears as though the filmmakers were unable to make sense of their own script and opted to proceed instead of revising it further.

Taylor Dudley’s calm demeanor stands out against the chaos of her character, making her an intriguing figure to observe. Her frequent startled expressions and unusual movements, whether she is walking or dancing, give the impression of a believable alien being. Gavaris portrays a sullen, spoiled brat convincingly, but his character’s backstory lacks depth. Forte, however, leaves audiences guessing about her motivations and refuses to play a stereotypical villain, making her the standout performer.

‘The film ‘Touch Me’ demonstrates that Heimann holds an uncommon perspective and is brimming with ideas. It touches upon numerous contemporary issues such as climate crisis, personal traumas, and financial struggles among creatives. The movie maintains audience interest through subtle visual effects and peculiar characters, but fails to fully materialize as a biting satire or traditional horror flick. In an attempt to cover too many bases, the filmmakers ultimately deliver less than they potentially could.’

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2025-02-03 03:46