Overview
In his directorial debut Stuart Blumberg brings us a film about the rather awkward topic of sex addiction. It's humorous and overall an enjoyable watch, even if it does gloss over some of the darker elements of the addiction.
The film follows four characters at various stages of their battles with sex addiction who are connected through a support group. Our lead character is Adam, played by Mark Ruffalo. He's an eco-friendly businessman who is five years sober (no sex, even with himself). He attends an addicts group where his mentor is Mike (Tim Robbins). He's had issues with booze and violence, as well as compulsive sex over the years but is now reformed and remains happily married to his childhood sweetheart Katie (Joely Richardson). Her perspective as the long-suffering wife is intriguing but unfortunately underutilised.
Adam in turn mentors Neil (Josh Gad). H's a nerdy doctor who spends his days secretly filming up his boss's skirt and his nights eating junk food and wanking. It's a testament to Gad that his character is, despite what you just read, actually likeable. Dede (Pop star Pink) plays another sex-crazed character who decides to make Neil her first ever platonic male friend. Cuteness ensues.
When Mikes' junkie son returns home declaring himself clean it causes old suspicions to flare. We find out later that Mike's scepticism towards his son being able to reform has a lot to do with his sense of guilt from the past. After five years of celibacy Adam is terrified about blowing it when he starts dating Phoebe (Gwyneth Paltrow). Neil needs to stand up to mum Roberta (Carol Kane) before he can man up and take control of his life.
Thanks for Sharing may deal with a taboo topic but its treatment is pretty mainstream. That means there aren't too many moments to make you squirm but it also results in a film which is a bit on the safe side. Regardless, it gives some insight into the self destructive power of the addiction. On top of that, some of the more self aware lines delivered by Tim Robbins and Josh Gadd, in particular, are comedy gold.