Who knew sex addiction was a laughing matter? Writes Scott Gentry, as he reviews "Thanks For Sharing".

"Thanks For Sharing"
Director: Stuart Blumberg.
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Tim Robbins and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Rated: 15, for containing strong sex, sex references and strong language.
Running Time: 112 minutes.
Out now in UK cinemas.

"Thanks For Sharing" follows a group of individuals, who are trying to overcome a natural urge, sex. As they attend an addicts group led by Mike (Tim Robbins), our story focusses on three central characters (Adam - Mark Ruffalo, Neil - Josh Gad and Dede - Alecia Moore), who begin to develop romances and friendships; through their mistakes and successes. 

You've got to admit, selling a film about sex addiction to producers must be hard; however it seems director Stuart Blumberg (writer of the award winning film "The Kids Are All Right) has succeeded. 

Films of this nature have begun cropping up in the last three years, the most memorable being Steve McQueen's "Shame", a dramatic and often shocking look at sex addiction through one man; Brandon (Michael Fassbender).

"Thanks For Sharing" (albeit tough and challenging material at times) doesn't live up fully to my expectations based upon films like "Shame". However, this doesn't matter. 

This film may not be as emotionally wrenching as "Shame", but it doesn't need to be. It gets across a clear and delicate message, in which the most unlikely of audiences will be able to get their head around. 

The film begins with a small but insightful invitation into the lives of our (very different) main characters. It's good that all characters come from different situations and backgrounds, as there may be people who have these problems and this film could be a way to help their addiction, but on a more relate-able level.

The aspect of sex addiction, is no joke. The film delivers a very real look into the character's lives, but always (barely) keeps inside the comedy/drama genre. At times the film is explicit, but it partly needs to be; as the film should delve properly into the addiction and not deliver a sugar-coated Hollywood comedy. Thankfully, it doesn't. 

The main cast is superb. Mark Ruffallo delivers a perfect and believable performance, especially when the film develops dark overtones. Gwyneth Paltrow acts exceedingly well in a non-Pepper Pots ("Iron Man" reference) role which allows her to flourish into a seasoned actress. Alecia Moore (stage name, PINK) portrays a slightly underused, but likeable character.

Verdict

Honestly, "Thanks For Sharing" is a more accessible film than "Shame". still delivering the sharp dialogue and awkward situations under a lighter (sometimes dark) mood. A genuine crowd pleaser, despite it's delicate overtones.

7.5 Stars out of 10 = Excellent.

Written by Scott Gentry.

Film Rating Key

1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.

3-4 stars out of ten = Average.

5-6 stars out of ten = Good.

7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.

9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.