The Five Senses

Synopsis

The Five Senses is a thought-provoking drama that intricately weaves together the stories of five diverse characters, each grappling with their own desires and struggles tied to the human experience of perception. Over the course of a single day in a bustling urban environment, the film explores the tactile, the visual, the olfactory, the auditory, and the gustatory aspects of life, reflecting how these senses influence personal connections and emotional encounters. Mary-Louise Parker leads a talented ensemble cast, portraying a dedicated massage therapist navigating the complexities of intimacy in relationships and self-discovery. As the characters interlink through various interactions and experiences tied to their senses, the film captures the essence of human longing and the search for meaning. The Five Senses invites audiences to reflect on how perception shapes our existence and the profound yet delicate nature of human connection. With its poetic storytelling style and rich character development, this film encourages viewers to delve into their own sensory experiences and consider the complexities of everyday life.

Cast

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  Mary-Louise Parker

  Rona

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  Pascale Bussières

  Gail

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  Richard Clarkin

  Raymond

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  Brendan Fletcher

  Rupert

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  Marco Leonardi

  Roberto

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  Nadia Litz

  Rachel Seraph

Reviews

The Five Senses has garnered a mixed to positive critical reception since its release in 1999. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a score of 74%, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics have praised the film for its ambitious exploration of the senses, with The New York Times acknowledging, 'It is a subtly constructed work that evokes genuine emotional resonance.' The performances, particularly that of Mary-Louise Parker, have been noted as highlights, with Variety commenting on her ability to convey deep emotional layers through minimal dialogue. IMDb users have rated it 6.7/10, suggesting a solid appreciation among audiences, while Metacritic reflects a more polarized response with a score of 56/100, indicating mixed or average reviews. Some critics have pointed out that the film's pacing can be slow, which may deter some viewers; however, Entertainment Weekly described it as 'a beautifully rendered meditation on the senses that finds poetry in the mundane.' Overall, The Five Senses is viewed as a unique cinematic experience that invites viewers to contemplate their own sensory experiences deeply.