Shame

I suppose the following paragraphs contains spoilers, but the film itself should be seen from viscerally experiencing it, as any discussion of the plot doesn't lend itself to the feelings the film evokes from viewing it.  It's somewhat similar to "Requiem For A Dream", knowing the plot synopsis has very little impact from actually seeing the film itself.

The title of the film derives from literally the sense of shame that envelops Brandon (Michael Fassbender), who otherwise looks to be a normal, well-groomed, professional man working in New York City, with the means to live alone in an apartment, but has an addiction to sex, in all manners, be it online webcams/chatrooms, in-person trolling in bars and subways, porn, etc.

Actual one-on-one emotional connections with women eludes Brandon.  Living on his own, his addiction occupies most of his waking moments, but his carefree sister Sissy (Carey Mulligan) shows up for an open-ended stay, and basically cramps his style to the point where her presence does the same as putting a mirror to Brandon's growing shame as his addiction continues to consume him, to the point of very selfish levels when it comes to feeding his urges with all manners of sexual interludes (quite a few graphic scenes are in the film) at the expense of living in the moment and putting his needs ahead of anything else.

Fassbender's character study of Brandon is very brave and strong work.  His needs for sex overwhelms any sense of intimacy he might develop with anyone, including friends or family.  It's quite a strong performance of a tortured soul caught in the throes of unbridled need for sexual activity and release.  Even running through the streets of NYC and its release of endorphins don't seem to be enough for Brandon's appetite.  Heh.

It's NC-17 for good reason, and if you aren't comfortable with the subject matter, you'd be better off avoiding this film, otherwise, it's a compelling look at something that probably goes on with some of your own friends, co-workers, acquaintances, and you just have no idea what goes through their own mindspace, but this film will give you an unflinching look at such addictive traits.

I give it 3 stars, or a grade of B.