Ruth leaves her home expecting a date, only to discover that the man ac-companying her—claiming to be her son—is taking her to a nursing home for her first day. Familiar Touch is a poignant “coming-of-old-age” story that follows Ruth’s journey of adapting to an unfamiliar environment as a senior citizen. With extraordinary sensitivity and subtle touches of humor, the film portrays Ruth’s initial interactions and experiences in her new life at the nursing home.
Sarah Friedland’s debut feature received widespread acclaim at the Venice Film Festival, where it won three Orizzonti awards: Best Debut Film, Best Director, and Best Actress for Kathleen Chalfant. The film also garnered the top prize, Best Feature Film, in the Punto de Encuentro section at the Valladolid Festival in Spain. This screening is presented in collaboration with the Brain Film Fest.
Credits
Year: 2024
Runtime: 90′
Country: USA
Direction: Sarah Friedland
Screenplay: Sarah Friedland
Cast: H. Jon Benjamin, Kathleen Chalfant, London Garcia
Cinematography: Gabe Elder
Genre: Drama
Contact: Flamingo Films
Wins & nominations
2024 | Venice Film Festival | Best Debut Film, Best Actress and best Director (Orizzonti)
2024 | Valladolid Film Festival | Best Feature Film (Punto de encuentro)
