Touchy Feely is a 2013 independent drama film written and directed by Lynn Shelton. The film stars Rosemarie DeWitt, Josh Pais, Ellen Page, Scoot McNairy, and Allison Janney. The movie premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2013 and was released in theaters in September of the same year.
The movie follows Abby, a successful massage therapist who suddenly develops an aversion to bodily contact. She starts to feel uncomfortable with her job, which puts her relationship with her boyfriend, Jesse, under strain. Abby struggles to find a solution to her problem and turns to her brother, Paul, for support.
Meanwhile, Paul is running a failing dental practice with his assistant, Jenny, and his practice is suffering due to the lack of patients. However, everything changes when a patient experiences a miraculous healing after Paul performs a routine teeth cleaning. Other patients begin to seek him out, calling his new technique the “healing touch.”
As Abby’s life spirals out of control, she starts to question her identity and her place in the world. She seeks solace in her family and her brother’s newfound success, but ultimately must come to terms with her own issues.
Touchy Feely is a slow-moving, introspective film that explores themes of identity, family, and healing. The direction is poignant, and the actors deliver excellent performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. If you enjoy introspective dramas that explore complex themes, Touchy Feely will surely be a film you’ll enjoy.
