MOVIE REVIEW
The Treatment
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Year Released: 2006, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Oren Rudavsky
Writer(s): Daniel Saul Housman, Daniel Menaker, Oren Rudavsky
Cast: Chris Eigeman, Ian Holm, Famke Janssen
Where To Watch: Now Available on Blu-ray www.kinolorber.com and Digitally www.kinonow.com and Amazon www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Let's examine this compelling indie narrative, THE TREATMENT, a film that navigates the choppy waters of human complexity. Famke Janssen proves that her talents extend far beyond the mainstream, lending her skills to portray a character central to this intricate exploration of life.

Director Oren Rudavsky, whose documentary work is seen in his vision here. His experience in the field translates into an authenticity in writing and directing that avoids unnecessary dramatic contrivances while delivering natural and humorous scenes. The film is grounded in reality to the extent that you forget you’re watching “acting” at times.

Our central character is Jake, an individual walking a fine line of neuroses despite his professional success. Chris Eigeman steps into these shoes, rendering a performance that pulls us into Jake's world, building a connection between the audience and his character that's hard to ignore. Jake's life takes a turn when he decides to consult a psychiatrist recommended by his ex-partner. However, the psychiatrist's Freudian methodology plunges Jake into a whirlwind of psychoanalytic theory, complicating his life in ways he never expected.

As we journey through the narrative, the pacing because overly apparent, almost to an extreme, as we get a dip in the narrative of the film to over-explain things. The film paints a vibrant portrait of life in New York City, replete with its quirks and eccentricities. Here, the focus remains fixed on Jake's challenges and his therapist's attempts to steer him through his life one step at a time.

The film draws strength from the incredible performances of Janssen and Holm. Janssen breathes life into Allegra with a unique charm, and Holm has a hilariously brutal approach to therapy that strengthens his character. As the storyline unfolds, twists and turns are added to keep the audience on its toes.

Despite a few weaknesses, THE TREATMENT tells an engaging tale fueled by impressive performances, witty humor, and a realistic depiction of life's vicissitudes. The film sidesteps typical Hollywood clichés, presenting a sincere reflection of the human experience and our often flawed attempts to solve life's problems.

BLU-RAY BONUS FEATURES INCLUDE:
Deleted Scenes
Featurette: Psychotherapists discuss the film
Theatrical trailer

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]