Sensitivity Training

Sensitivity Training is an endearing independent comedy movie from 2016 directed by Melissa Finell. The film centers around two women, their personalities poles apart, who are forced into an unexpected relationship of co-responsibility. With an engaging and humorous plot, this film delivers its unique take on the traditional buddy movie genre. With performances from actors Anna Lise Phillips, Jill E. Alexander, and Quinn Marcus, to name a few, Sensitivity Training presents audiences with an intriguing exploration of social interactions and relationships.

The movie starts with introducing the character of Serena (played by Anna Lise Phillips), a microbiologist who is engrossed in finding a cure for a life-threatening bacteria that her mother passed from. She is excessively dedicated to her work, to the point of isolation, and is notoriously ill-tempered. Her behavior creates tension in the lab, and her blunt mannerisms upset her colleagues frequently.

Caught off guard, Serena is ordered by her boss to undergo sensitivity training after a colleague lodges a complaint against her. In comes the gregarious, effervescent life coach Dr. Carol Todd (played by Jill E. Alexander). Carol, a stark counterpoint to Serena, is open-hearted, bubbly, and full of life. She is assigned to reform Serena, a process that requires her to shadow Serena in her day-to-day activities and teach her to be more socially considerate in her interactions, which results in a lot of humorous and implausible situations.

This set-up forms the crux of the movie. The narrative explores how these two women, who could not be more different, navigate their turbulent, tension-fraught partnership. As the plot unfolds, the film investigates the mechanics of human relationships and sensitivity in various colorful and amusing ways while delivering a steady stream of humor.

Sensitivity Training stands out because of its vivid, character-driven comedy. Each character is layered with detail, offering the audiences an intriguing blend of personas to follow. From Serena's cold, abrasive exterior to Carol's zest and appeal, the movie capitalizes on their differences while also highlighting the universal human elements that pervade their characters.

Anna Lise Phillips masterfully portrays Serena's transition from a reclusive, obstinate scientist into someone more empathetic and understanding. Her portrayal brings depth to Serena's character that both amuses and touches the viewers at different junctures of the movie. On the other hand, Jill E. Alexander shines in her role, infusing her character with warmth and humor. Her vivacious performance as the life coach is a joy to behold and provides a nice contrast and balance to Phillips' more restrained performance.

Quinn Marcus, along with an excellent supporting cast, adds the perfect embellishment to the storyline, contributing to the movie's overall charm. The dynamics among these characters reflect beautiful instances of camaraderie, conflict, and transformation.

This film also points to the complex dynamics of the workplace and prompts viewers to contemplate about sensitivity, emotions, and interpersonal relationships. While it does introduce us to the compelling world of contemporary scientific research, it never loses sight of its primary focus, which is the development and evolution of the characters' relationships set against an entertaining and humorous backdrop.

The direction and cinematography are noteworthy as well in Sensitivity Training. The idiosyncratic characters are brought to life with exceptional elan in the capable hands of the cinematographer and director. The visual palette of the film is light and bright, reflecting the underpinning of comedy even in the gravest circumstances.

To sum up, Sensitivity Training is a feel-good comedy movie. It is fascinating and amusing, all the while exploring complex themes of sensitivity and social manners. The film is charming and whimsically profound, showcasing humor and poignancy perfectly sewn together in the narrative. While providing a handful of laughs, it encourages viewers to ponder about their own take on sensitivity, work etiquette, and how they navigate their relationships. It's an enjoyable watch that will resonate with audiences long after the end credits roll.