By presenting attraction between teen and adult and giving it the leash to play out without condemnation, director and co-writer Vanessa Knutson self-imposes a minefield she then beelines straight across, setting off incendiary little explosions in the engrossing "Only Humans." This is a deceptively plain-faced, socially taboo tale told with a deft hand. And the fact it doesn't hand out prison sentences is sure to enrage those demanding a retributive moral to the story.
When sixteener Sarah (Ivy Matheson) needs driving lessons, mom Nancy (Peri Gilpin) pairs her with decidedly adult male Vince (Micah Hauptman), who could use a hand cleaning out his house in preparation for its sale. Attraction happens, and it's acted upon. Of course we know it's legally and socially verboten, so whether we have the taste for it being reflected in our entertainment is subjective. For these exact reasons, "Only Humans" is paradoxically compelling stuff.
"Only Humans" will perhaps be best received by an audience comfortable with films that portray an immoral situation, yet don't hold any subsequent expectation that its creator must then offer their clear and personal condemnation. This is an impacting film that many will applaud for the same reasons it'll incite others. See for yourself. - (Was this review of use to you? If so, let me know by clicking "Helpful." Cheers!)
