The Five Senses 2000

The Five Senses intricately weaves together a series of interconnected narratives that revolve around a building, exploring the themes related to the five senses. At the forefront is touch, represented by Ruth Seraph, a dedicated massage therapist who is assisting Anna Miller through a difficult time. During a visit to the park, disaster strikes when Ruth’s daughter, Rachel, inadvertently loses Anna’s young daughter, Amy Lee, after being distracted by a couple passionately entwined in the woods. In her moment of distraction, Rachel encounters Rupert, a voyeur who embodies sight. They forge a bond as they both navigate life as outsiders, with Rupert introducing Rachel to the thrilling world of observing others. Their friendship takes a playful turn as they venture to one of Rachel’s secret spots, leading to an amusing experience where Rupert dresses up as a woman.

Simultaneously, Ruth remains a pillar of support for Anna as she grapples with the traumatic loss of Amy Lee, even choosing to spend the night at Anna’s home. On another front, we meet Robert, a professional cleaner whose sharp sense of smell drives him to reconnect with people from his past, seeking the scents that once brought him comfort and understanding regarding their changing emotions toward him. Robert’s clients include friends Raymond and Rebecca, who navigates the art of perfume making. Another layer is added through Rona, a cake artist whose taste has dulled, complicating her romantic life when Roberto, a man she met in Italy, unexpectedly reappears.

Meanwhile, Dr. Richard Jacob, an aging optometrist, faces the impending loss of his hearing and strives to preserve the vivid sounds of life as he prepares for silence. His journey of self-discovery leads him to connect with Gail, played by Pascale Bussières, who provides him with solace and encouragement. As these individual stories unfold, the film builds towards a resolution where Amy Lee is finally located, and both Ruth and Rachel find themselves mending their relationship amidst the chaos of their lives, weaving a poignant conclusion to their emotional journeys.