In Sarah Friedland’s Venice Drama ‘Familiar Touch’ Older Adults Don’t ‘Fade Away’: ‘Their Senses Intensify’

As a movie enthusiast with a penchant for stories that delve deep into the human experience, I find Sarah Friedland’s work to be nothing short of captivating. Her unwavering focus on the complexities of the human body and its politics is truly commendable. In “Familiar Touch,” she masterfully explores the sensuality of older adults, a topic often overlooked in cinema.

Sarah Friedland isn’t done talking about the body just yet.

The upcoming movie from this new filmmaker will also focus on the same theme. They are currently developing a screenplay that combines dance and storytelling, using narrative elements. They express that they may continue to do so throughout their career. At this stage, they feel deeply connected to the body’s rhythms and its societal aspects, as shared with EbMaster.

In the movie “Familiar Touch,” which is set to debut in Venice‘s Orizzonti section, it explores and embraces the sensuality of mature adults, particularly focusing on Ruth, a character from “The Affair.” Carolyn Michelle, Andy McQueen, and H. Jon Benjamin are among the notable stars joining her as she navigates life in an assisted living facility.

“In many conversations, the phrase ‘older adults losing focus’ or ‘things becoming unclear’ is used. However, as certain mental abilities diminish in them, their senses of touch, taste, and smell may actually grow stronger,” she explains.

“Ruth’s character was motivated by strong, no-nonsense women. I wondered how it felt for them to lose control over their lives, given that so much of their younger years were tied to feminist ideals and self-reliance. I didn’t want her character to conform to stereotypes like the ‘sweet old lady’ or ‘grandma.’ Often, we either trivialize their sexuality or make jokes about it, which I believe is demeaning and deeply concerning.”

After the festival debut in Italy, Friedland is arranging a set of workshops to go along with subsequent screenings.

“She explains that we aim to recreate the multi-generational approach in creating this film. We conducted a movie-making course at Villa Gardens, an actual retirement home, inviting the residents to produce their own films. Subsequently, some of these residents became part of our cast and crew. This concept for the story was born fifteen years ago, when her own grandmother was diagnosed with dementia.”

“She placed great importance on spoken communication. When she transitioned to a state of limited verbal ability and resided in a memory care facility, my relatives often spoke about her as though she had already departed. However, whenever I would visit, she showed physical signs of being very much alive and attentive,” she shares.

“Friedland was troubled by the contrast she encountered, so she responded to an advertisement placed by a sculptor afflicted by dementia, seeking someone who could function as both assistant and caregiver. Over time, she found herself collaborating with additional artists and creative individuals from New York City grappling with this same condition.”

“It changed everything I thought I knew about aging, identity and the intimacy of care labor.”

She created the “Movement Exercises Trilogy,” which encompassed a series of “Home Exercises” that guided older adults to perform daily tasks more efficiently. Additionally, she provided filmmaking instruction within their local communities.

“She explains that ‘Familiar Touch’ served as a means to combine two aspects: my work involving motion and human bodies in front of the camera, and my work with senior citizens.” She speaks confidently, without shying away from addressing sensitive topics.

The movie opens, with it being directed by Alexandra Byer at Rathaus Films and Matthew Thurm at Go for Thurm as production companies. In this film’s initial scene, Ruth encounters a mysterious individual. This person instructs her to accompany him, which she does without hesitation, leading her directly to the location that will soon be her residence. It turns out this appealing man is none other than her grown son, Steve.

“She notes that although it’s quite uncomfortable, many people encounter this situation with their loved ones. They sense a connection and closeness, yet struggle to identify the nature of their relationship. Since her clients are around the same age, they perceive her as more of a friend or peer. It’s essential to understand and accept their perspective on reality.”

As a film enthusiast, I aimed to authentically depict Ruth’s longing for intimacy and connection, even when it became muddled, without causing her any embarrassment. I am incredibly thankful to the actors who were so receptive to capturing Ruth and Steve’s experiences so genuinely. The film resonates deeply due to the immense depth and nuance they brought to their performances.

As a cinephile penning down my thoughts, I find myself moved by Friedland’s directorial work, having previously collaborated with esteemed filmmakers such as Steve McQueen and Kelly Reichardt. This film, I believe, is more than just a visual experience; it serves as a thought-provoking journey that encourages viewers to ponder upon their own aspirations and necessities as they advance in life. By watching this film, I hope you’ll be inspired to articulate your desires regarding care during your golden years, fostering deeper conversations about compassionate aging.

“The common notion is that as older adults experience memory loss, they somehow ‘lose their identity.’ This theme is often portrayed in films, usually from the viewpoint of their family members or loved ones, focusing on grief. However, I aimed to create a film that doesn’t just dwell on sorrow but reflects the reality of my clients, where their daily lives are filled with moments of joy, delight, and social engagement.”

2024-09-03 08:17

In Sarah Friedland’s Venice Drama ‘Familiar Touch’ Older Adults Don’t ‘Fade Away’: ‘Their Senses Intensify’

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