"We'll embark on this journey, one careful step at a time..." Music Box Films has unveiled an official trailer for "Familiar Touch," a charming indie drama heralding the feature directorial bow of filmmaker Sarah Friedland. It's a must-watch. The film garnered accolades for Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Debut Film in the Orizzonti section at the prestigious 2024 Venice Film Festival, before going on to enchant audiences at festivals in Vancouver, London, Tromso, Singapore, AFI Fest, and the New Films/New Directors Film Festivals.
"Familiar Touch" is a poignant coming-of-old-age narrative centered on an elderly woman grappling with memory loss. Tony Award nominee Kathleen Chalfant delivers a tour de force performance as Ruth, the film's protagonist. Crafted in close collaboration with residents of a retirement community, the movie challenges societal perceptions of aging and delicately portrays the intricate tapestry of intimacy and desire in later life. It traces the meandering path of octogenarian Ruth's fluctuating memories and desires, all while anchoring in her wise and sage perspective. The cast also includes Carolyn Michelle, Andy McQueen, and H. Jon Benjamin as Ruth's son. The beautifully poignant trailer captures the heartwarming essence of the film with remarkable finesse.
In her sunny, cozy kitchen, Ruth (Kathleen Chalfant), a retired cook, prepares breakfast—a dish she has made countless times before, yet now, small, confusing mistakes pepper her once-familiar routine. When her son (H. Jon Benjamin) arrives for dinner, she mistakenly identifies him as a romantic interest. Their impromptu "date" leads them to an assisted living facility that Ruth doesn't recall selecting. Among her fellow memory care residents, Ruth feels disoriented and disconnected, convinced she's in the wrong place. As she gradually opens her heart to the warmth and support of care workers Vanessa (Carolyn Michelle) and Brian (Andy McQueen), she discovers new ways to connect with her body, even as her mind embarks on a solo voyage.
Written and directed by American filmmaker Sarah Friedland, "Familiar Touch" marks her feature directorial debut after helming numerous short films. Produced by Alexandra Byer, Sarah Friedland, and Matthew Thurm, the film premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival, where it secured Best Director and Best Actress honors. Music Box Films will release "Familiar Touch" in select US theaters, starting with NYC's Film Forum, on June 20th, 2025. Visit the film's official site for more information.
