Someone I Touched

Someone I Touched is a 1975 drama film starring Cloris Leachman, James Olson, and Glynnis O'Connor. The film explores the themes of love, infidelity, and the ramifications of casual sexual encounters.

The story begins with a young college student named Susan, played by O'Connor, who becomes pregnant following a one-night stand with a married man named David, played by Olson. Meanwhile, David's wife, Debbie, played by Leachman, discovers that she has contracted syphilis from her husband's infidelity.

As the characters navigate the consequences of their actions, they are forced to confront the complexities of love and the impact that their choices have on others. Susan must decide whether to keep the baby and raise it on her own, while David struggles to balance his desire for both Susan and his wife.

Throughout the film, all three characters grapple with their guilt and regret, and the emotional toll that their actions have on those around them. The film portrays these characters not as villains, but as flawed human beings dealing with the consequences of their mistakes.

One of the film's strengths is its nuanced portrayal of gender and sexuality. Although the film was made in the 1970s, it avoids many of the sexist and homophobic tropes that were common in films of that era. Instead, it presents a complex and compassionate view of human sexuality, one that acknowledges the pleasures and risks of intimacy while refusing to moralize or judge.

The film was directed by Lou Antonio, who also co-wrote the screenplay with William Bast. Antonio's direction is understated and naturalistic, allowing the actors' performances to shine. Leachman, in particular, gives a magnificent performance as Debbie, capturing both the character's pain and her resilience.

Overall, Someone I Touched is a compelling and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of love and infidelity. It is a nuanced and compassionate portrayal of human sexuality, one that avoids many of the moralistic cliches of its era. For fans of 1970s drama and character-driven storytelling, Someone I Touched is a must-see.