Empathy (2004)

Synopsis: Combining elements of documentary and narrative with academic playfulness, visual artist Amie Siegel's EMPATHY attempts to shed light on the process of psychoanalysis. Gigi Buffington stars as Lia,... Combining elements of documentary and narrative with academic playfulness, visual artist Amie Siegel's EMPATHY attempts to shed light on the process of psychoanalysis. Gigi Buffington stars as Lia, an intense, neurotic actress whose frustrating relationship with her analyst doesn't provide her with the answers that she is seeking to remedy the confusion in her life. Siegel intercuts Lia's story--which involves an unsympathetic sister, a suicide in a mall, and an awkward attempt to tell her analyst about a sexual dream involving him--with a series of candid interviews with real-life analysts, who offer answers to a series of fascinatingly candid questions. To add to the film's multidimensional post modern coverage of its subject, also included are brief histories of both architect Richard Neutra and the chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames, which has become the analyst's standard. As the layering of the film progresses, Siegel defies viewers' expectations by inserting footage of actresses other than Buffington auditioning for the role of Lia, and the cast and interview subjects mingling at the film's wrap party. Its indirect approach allows EMPATHY to offer plenty of food for thought on a fascinating subject. [More]

Starring: Gigi Buffington, Aria Knee

Starring: Gigi Buffington, Aria Knee

Director: Amie Siegel

Director: Amie Siegel
Screenwriter: Amie Siegel
Producer: Mark Rance

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