Cuddler

In Cuddler (2016), Director Bohdan Turok is able to masterfully open a window into the life of Marie (main character), to share an intimate part of HER unique story. However, as I watched the movie, I found myself seriously contemplating MY OWN feelings and emotions, and 'digging deeper' to tap into visceral sentiments that are found in us all.

In the end, Marie's experiences and journey as a 'professional' cuddler is also MY journey, and the film perfectly exemplifies this notion through its insightful depiction of the story of 'the other', while connecting with and 'touching your own.'

Cuddler is a short narrative film exploring the lived experience of a professional cuddler living in a modern metropolis, and is successful in several ways. The acting is quite notable. I especially enjoyed the space management between characters. It is rare to see space between actors managed with nuance, and even rarer to see it done in an emotionally evocative manner. The film is directed and photographed elegantly-always in service of the story. The underlying tone is perhaps the film's greatest strength. There is a patience here that benefits (a) the unfolding of the drama and (b) the contrasting feelings of comfort and discomfort that are central to an exploration of the themes of intimacy, isolation, and tenderness in an emotionally challenging zeitgeist.

Cuddler is ultimately a successful film marking it's director, Mr. Turok, as a blossoming auteur. Highly recommended.