OBSERVER: Familiar Touch
Familiar Touch presents a memorable screen experience. Photography by Gabe C. Elder under the direction of writer/producer Sarah Friedland creates a superb visual language, whether studying Ruth’s facial expression or movement and the faces of others. Equally important is the wonderful performance from Kathleen Chalfant as intelligent, mature-aged Ruth, the film’s protagonist who transitions from her home to start a new life in assisted living.
All appears normal at Ruth’s home as she chooses an outfit then carefully prepares two sandwiches for lunch. We learn that preparing food is important to Ruth, a retired chef.
Her son Steve (H. Jon Benjamin) arrives and we sense all is not so normal. Ruth says: “I’ve packed a bag”, and gazes at her plants before they drive to an assisted living facility.
She meets her friendly personal carer Vanessa (Carolyn Michelle Smith) and we realise that Ruth has a deteriorating memory condition. This will be her new home.
From another perspective, it has been hard for Steve, too and we see him and Ruth’s granddaughter packing up Ruth’s home and he enjoys reflecting on his mother’s precious recipe books.
The photography and acting merge so well that Ruth’s story can often be told in silence. One example is when through her window, Ruth views a man outside freely soaking up the sun. Her facial expression captures internalised emotion as she realises her institutionalised situation. No dialogue is necessary.
As well as sadness, there are funny moments, including when Ruth insists on making ‘brainfood’ for fellow residents, and enjoys a good rapport with staff.
But there are also times of conflict with others and within herself. Andy McQueen (Brian) presents an enjoyable performance as the facility’s doctor.
The pace of the film is slow at times, allowing the viewer to absorb and become immersed in Ruth’s new life as her memory capacity slows down.
This is a human story expressed beautifully through highly skilled artistry.
Opening October 23 at various cinemas including Nova and Lido.
Duration: 90 minutes.
Review by Cheryl Threadgold