The Sensitives

The Sensitives is a compelling and insightful 2017 documentary film that shines a flashlight into the lives of individuals battling a highly debatable yet life-altering condition. Directed by Drew Xanthopoulos, the film stars real-life subjects Joe Fasulo, Lanie Fasulo, Meg Fasulo, Susan Molloy, and Fay Akers who bravely share their heartrending sagas with the world. The film does not have a traditional narrative structure typical to fictional movies, but instead presents an unfiltered realistic exploration of its subjects, allowing the audience to draw their own inferences.

"The Sensitives" is an empathetic account of those who suffer from a mysterious illness also known as Environmental Illness or Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). The disease is not recognized by all medical professionals, yet it drastically affects the lives of those who are afflicted by it, forcing some to live in absolute isolation. Xanthopoulos follows the lives of a few victims of this debilitating affliction, unfolding their ceaseless battles with the condition and societal skepticism.

Joe Fasulo, one of the primary subjects in the film, is depicted living in the arid Southern Arizona with his mother, Susan. The harsh landscapes bearing semblance to their daily struggle, the pair is seen leading a life far detached from the conventional world, encapsulated by their mobile homes. Environmental triggers like material off-gassing from new products, the presence of mold, certain fabrics, cigarette smoke, or even perfume can trigger severe physical reactions in Joe, ranging from confusion, and dizziness to severe migraines and physical pain. This is indicative of the plight of most sufferers of MCS.

Another subject is Sam, a middle-aged woman living in Snowflake, the asylum city for people like her. Sam used to be a hypnotherapist and a gardener. Today, she spends her days largely cut off from the outside world, insulated within the confines of her aluminum-lined habitat. She communicates with her sons Lanie and Meg through phone calls, offering them advice and care from a distance. Her condition demands complete avoidance of anything that may possibly bear toxins or chemicals, thus complicating her familial bonds.

In all its narratives, The Sensitives does not focus solely on the medical aspect of MCS but on the profound impact it has on the everyday lives and relationships of those afflicted. Their fight is not just against their bodies’ reactions to common environmental stimuli, but also against social isolation, skepticism, and lack of recognition from mainstream medicine. It is an exploration of their indomitable spirit, their courage to adapt and sustain in a world that appears hostile to their very existence.

The film’s style of storytelling is defined by a gentle observation, a tender gaze that maintains a respectful distance, allowing the subjects their dignity and space. This method is impactful in eliciting an emotional response from the viewers without resorting to sensationalism. The austere, almost barren landscape becomes a tacit part of the narrative, symbolizing the isolation being endured by the subjects.

The Sensitives brings forth aspects of human spirit like resilience, adaptation, and compassion. We see a community of victims come together to extend emotional and physical support to each other. Some have created their refuge in the desolate towns like Snowflake, Arizona, forging a community that patronizes empathy and understanding.

At its core, the documentary is a poignant portrayal of the human need for connection and understanding, making the film a universally relatable experience. The struggles of the subjects may be unique to them, but the essence of their fight for survival resounds with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or sidelined.

The Sensitives is, therefore, not just a documentary about a controversial health issue, it is an exploration of the human condition in all its complexity and strength. It stirs awareness about this little-known condition and starts a dialogue about environmental sensitivities, while also emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and connection in our lives. With this film, Xanthopoulos has delivered a sensitive, illuminating, and poignant work that stays with the audience long after the credits roll.