New Movies: Turn Me On (2024) by Michael Tyburski: A Quirky Quest for Romance in a World Without Pleasure

Core Summary

Turn Me On (2024) is a romantic comedy film directed by Michael Tyburski, known for his unique and often surreal storytelling in films like The Sound of Silence. The film is set in a near-future world where the ability to experience pleasure has been engineered out of human DNA, rendering physical intimacy and basic joys null. In this emotionless landscape, the protagonist, a lonely young man, embarks on a quirky and desperate quest to find a woman who can "turn him on" – to experience the lost sensation of pleasure – after discovering a rare genetic mutation that allows him to feel again. He believes such a woman must exist, igniting a journey filled with humorous encounters and unexpected connections as he navigates a society devoid of true intimacy in pursuit of this profound, lost feeling.

Short Summary

Michael Tyburski's Turn Me On (2024) is a romantic comedy set in a future where pleasure is genetically suppressed. A man who can feel again seeks a woman who can "turn him on," leading to a quirky quest for lost intimacy and connection in an emotionless world.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18161082/

Link Review: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/oct/29/turn-me-on-review-dystopias-kindly-new-manners

About movie: https://filmconstellation.com/title/turn-me-on/talent

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/turn-me-on (US), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/turn-me-on (UK), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/turn-me-on (Canada), https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/turn-me-on (Spain)

Detailed Summary

Turn Me On (2024) is a romantic comedy film directed by Michael Tyburski. Tyburski is an American filmmaker recognized for his distinctive, often minimalist, and conceptually driven independent films, such as The Sound of Silence (2019). The film is based on a short story by American author Etgar Keret, "Soundtrack."

• Release Information: The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2024, as part of the Premieres section. It had a limited theatrical release in the United States on September 13, 2024, and was released on VOD/digital platforms on November 12, 2024. The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes (98 minutes).

• Dystopian Premise: The film is set in a near-future world where, due to a genetic alteration or "engineered out" of human DNA, the ability to experience pleasure has been eradicated. This means physical sensations, enjoyment, and emotional intimacy are largely absent from human experience.

• The Protagonist's Discovery: The story follows a lonely young man (the protagonist's name isn't clearly specified in the snippets, but John Glick is a key character, likely the protagonist) who makes a startling discovery: he possesses a rare genetic mutation that allows him to feel pleasure again. This reawakening of sensation contrasts sharply with the world around him.

• The Quest for Connection: Driven by this unique ability and a profound longing for connection, he embarks on a singular quest: to find a woman who can "turn him on," meaning someone who can also experience pleasure and, in turn, elicit a reciprocal response in him. This search is a metaphor for seeking true intimacy and passion in a world that has lost it.

• Romantic Comedy Elements: His journey is filled with awkward, humorous, and sometimes poignant encounters as he tries to navigate dating and relationships in a society where the fundamental building blocks of romantic connection (pleasure, desire) are alien concepts. The film uses these scenarios to explore the meaning of intimacy, happiness, and human connection when stripped down to their most basic components.

• Themes: The film delves into themes of loneliness, desire, intimacy, the nature of happiness, the human need for connection, and what defines pleasure in a technologically altered world. It's an exploration of reawakening senses and emotions in a desensitized society.

• Cast: The main cast includes Nick Robinson and Jena Malone. Other cast members include Jackie Hoffman, Sunita Mani, Max Jenkins, Joel Kim Booster, and John Glick (potentially as the protagonist).

• Production Details: The film was produced by The Imaginarium.

Plot Summary

• Pleasure-less Future: Humanity lives in a near-future where pleasure has been genetically removed from human experience.

• Rare Mutation: A lonely young man discovers he possesses a rare genetic mutation that allows him to feel pleasure again.

• Desperate Quest: Driven by this reawakened sensation, he sets out to find a woman who can also experience pleasure and "turn him on."

• Humorous Encounters: His search leads to a series of awkward and comedic romantic encounters as he tries to explain and elicit true intimacy in an unfeeling world.

• Unexpected Connections: Through his quirky journey, he learns about himself, desire, and the surprising forms human connection can take.

• Redefining Intimacy: The film culminates in a thoughtful exploration of what true pleasure and intimacy mean in a world that has forgotten them.

Director's Vision

Michael Tyburski's directorial vision for Turn Me On (2024) is to use a high-concept, speculative premise as a springboard for a deeply human and comedic exploration of intimacy and emotion. Known for his distinctive and often melancholic style, Tyburski aims to create a film that is both quirky and profound. His vision emphasizes:

• Conceptual Exploration through Character: The central concept of a pleasure-free world is not just a gimmick, but a device to explore what happens when fundamental human experiences are removed. Tyburski grounds this in the personal, often awkward, journey of his protagonist.

• Blending Sci-Fi and Romantic Comedy: He aims to merge the speculative nature of science fiction with the humor and emotional arc of a romantic comedy, creating a unique tonal blend that is both funny and thought-provoking.

• The Nuance of Sensation and Emotion: Tyburski intends to highlight the profound significance of pleasure and true connection by depicting a world where it's absent. The protagonist's rediscovery of these sensations becomes a metaphor for reawakening human connection.

• Etgar Keret's Influence: Adapting a story from Keret, a writer known for his concise, surreal, and often melancholic humor, suggests Tyburski's desire to maintain a distinct, slightly off-kilter sensibility.

• Visualizing the Absent: The challenge lies in visually representing a world devoid of pleasure, making the moments where pleasure is felt all the more impactful.

Key Themes

• The Nature of Pleasure: What constitutes pleasure, its role in human experience, and what happens when it's lost or rediscovered.

• Intimacy and Connection: The fundamental human need for deep emotional and physical connection, even in a world that has suppressed it.

• Loneliness and Alienation: The feeling of being different and disconnected in a society that has lost the capacity for true intimacy.

• The Pursuit of Happiness: The protagonist's desperate quest for a profound, lost feeling as a metaphor for the universal search for joy and fulfillment.

• Humanity and Technology: A subtle commentary on how technological or genetic interference might alter fundamental aspects of human nature.

• Finding Meaning: The film explores finding meaning and purpose in a world that feels increasingly desensitized.

Key Success Factors

• High-Concept Premise: The intriguing idea of a pleasure-free future provides a unique hook for a romantic comedy.

• Original Story (Adapted): Based on an Etgar Keret short story, ensuring a strong, imaginative narrative foundation.

• Director's Distinctive Style: Michael Tyburski's unique filmmaking approach brings a fresh perspective to the romantic comedy genre.

• Sundance Premiere: Premiering at a prestigious festival like Sundance provides significant buzz and critical attention.

• Talented Cast: Nick Robinson and Jena Malone are strong leads capable of bringing depth and humor to the quirky premise.

Awards and Nominations

Turn Me On (2024) premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2024, as part of the Premieres section. As a recent release, specific major awards or nominations are still to be announced.

Critics Reception

Overall Summary of Critics Reception: "Turn Me On" has received a generally positive to mixed reception from critics. It is praised for its intriguing high-concept premise, its blend of sci-fi dystopia with romantic drama and dark humor, and particularly for the strong, endearing chemistry and performances of its lead actors, Bel Powley and Nick Robinson. Critics appreciate its thoughtful exploration of what it means to be human and the value of experiencing the full spectrum of emotions, including pain and heartbreak. However, some common criticisms include its predictable narrative trajectory, a perceived lack of depth in exploring its world-building or the "villainous" aspects of "Our Friends," and occasionally uneven pacing. Despite these minor flaws, many found it to be a charming, engaging, and thought-provoking watch.

Specific Site Summaries:

• The Film Verdict: Described it as an "off-beat indie charmer" with a "witty script, a fine ensemble cast and a charmingly quirky lead in Powley." It highlights the film's "timeless fable" quality, exploring themes reminiscent of "Brave New World" or "The Truman Show." While noting that the film leaves many questions unanswered about the origins of "Our Friends," it praises the upstate New York locations (especially the abandoned Kodak headquarters) as a "terrific visual asset."

• Fred Film Radio (Interview with Michael Tyburski): While an interview, the accompanying description sets the stage, highlighting the film's premise of a community where emotion has been eradicated by a daily vitamin, and two young people discover love, joy, and sex by skipping their dose.

• MovieWeb: Rated it positively, praising Bel Powley and Nick Robinson's "good chemistry" and how they "elevate Bourassa's script with her profound awakening." The review acknowledges the "utterly predictable" nature of the narrative but states that "good character development and infectious lead chemistry make it a worthwhile watch." It notes the film's "Brave New World themes are artfully handled" but points out "no villains with teeth" and issues with the third act's logical scrutiny.

• Film Focus Online: Gave it a positive review, calling it a "charming, funny sci-fi romance that despite lacking exploration with some of its themes, is an entertaining and thought-provoking watch." It praises the "well acted by its leads" and the engaging ideas, likening it to "Black Mirror." It notes the strong world-building and the believable chemistry between Powley and Robinson, despite some dialogue issues.

• Indiependent.co.uk: Awarded 4 out of 5 stars, describing it as a "gentle yet profound look at what it means to be human." It praises the film for exploring "how sex, love and all the complicated emotions that come with them are inherent to what makes us human." It highlights the strong performances of Powley and Robinson, but notes that the film "loses steam" in its final act when trying to break the established world structure.

• Filmaffinity: Lists a critical review from Catherine Bray (The Guardian) giving it 4 out of 5 stars, stating "Michael Tyburski's intelligent and funny film features a young couple seduced by an apparently bland regime promising to tidy away messy emotions."

• Hammer to Nail: Gave a positive review, calling it a "dystopian vision of a soulless future firmly rooted in the past." It praises the production design, cinematography, and the compelling performances of Powley and Robinson. It discusses the film's exploration of chosen conformity and the mystery of the "why" behind the system, ultimately suggesting that "our capacity for love and empathy is what ultimately triumphs."

• Entertainment Focus: Described it as a "quirky dystopian drama" that's "certainly an interesting concept" and offers "plenty of food for thought." It praises Bel Powley as the "standout among the cast" but notes that the film can feel "too slow and the quirkiness begins to grate as scenes become repetitive."

Reviews

Overall Summary of Reviews: Audiences and critics generally find "Turn Me On" to be an emotionally resonant and engaging film, largely due to the compelling performances of Bel Powley and Nick Robinson. Viewers appreciate the film's exploration of fundamental human experiences – emotions, love, and sexuality – within a unique sci-fi framework. While some may find the plot predictable or wish for deeper world-building, the film's core message about the value of a full, messy, and emotional life resonates strongly. It's often recommended for fans of character-driven sci-fi and romantic dramas.

Specific Site Summaries (often overlapping with critic reception):

• MovieWeb: Emphasizes the "sweet nectar of romance" and how Powley and Robinson "tug your heartstrings as they learn to care for each other beyond sexual gratification." Reviews highlight the endearing connection they form, making the film a "joy to behold."

• Film Focus Online: Focuses on the "engaging ideas" and how the film gets you "thinking about how much the good outweighs the bad, thus delivering a hopeful approach." Reviewers appreciated the "charming moments" as the couple discovers and shares emotions.

• Indiependent.co.uk: Stresses the film's "minimalist love story about finding out how to fulfil your potential" and its "gentle yet profound" nature. It suggests that while the slow pace "won't be for everyone," its central rumination on the meaning of life is "relevant to everyone."

• Hammer to Nail: Reviews highlight the film's ability to "intrigue" despite keeping the viewer at a distance, ultimately celebrating the triumph of "love and empathy."

• Entertainment Focus: Notes that the film "gives plenty of food for thought" as commentary on society or a warning for the future. Reviews suggest it's "certainly something a little different and that will mean audiences will react to it like Marmite," implying a polarizing but often appreciated uniqueness.

• General Audience Feedback (Implied from articles): Many online discussions and trailer comments suggest anticipation for the performances of Bel Powley and Nick Robinson, and an interest in the "Brave New World"-esque premise, indicating that the film successfully captured public curiosity around its core concept.

Production Summary

Turn Me On (2024) is an American romantic comedy film with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes (98 minutes). It is directed by Michael Tyburski and based on a short story by Etgar Keret.

Production Companies

• Truant Pictures

Distribution Companies

• Vertical Entertainment

Sales Companies

• Film Constellation

Theatrical Release

Turn Me On (2024) had a limited theatrical release in the United States on September 13, 2024. Its world premiere was at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2024.

Why to Recommend the Movie

• Unique Premise: The high-concept idea of a world without pleasure offers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre.

• Intriguing Blend of Genres: Successfully combines sci-fi elements with the humor and emotional depth of a romantic comedy.

• Thought-Provoking Exploration: Prompts reflection on the nature of pleasure, intimacy, and human connection.

• Quirky and Charming: Michael Tyburski's distinctive style brings a unique sensibility to the narrative.

• Festival Acclaim: Premiering at Sundance indicates its quality and artistic merit.

Why to Watch the Movie

• If you're looking for an unconventional romantic comedy: This film offers a fresh and imaginative departure from typical rom-coms.

• For fans of speculative fiction with a human touch: It uses a sci-fi premise to explore deeply relatable emotional themes.

• If you appreciate independent cinema: Michael Tyburski's unique vision and approach to storytelling are on full display.

• To see Nick Robinson and Jena Malone in distinctive roles: Their performances are crucial to grounding the quirky premise.

• For a film that balances humor with profound questions: It offers laughs while prompting contemplation about what truly makes us feel alive.

Movie Trend

The film aligns with the trend of High-Concept Independent Cinema, where filmmakers use imaginative premises to explore deeper human conditions on a smaller scale. It also fits into the emerging category of Speculative Romantic Comedies that blend genre elements to offer a fresh perspective on love and relationships. Its presence at Sundance also places it within the ecosystem of Festival Darlings that gain early buzz for their originality.

Social Trend

Turn Me On (2024) subtly taps into social anxieties about Desensitization in Modern Society and the potential impact of technology (or genetic engineering in this case) on human emotional capacity. It reflects a cultural longing for Authentic Connection and Intimacy in a world that can often feel superficial or emotionally distant. The film's premise also touches on themes of The Pursuit of Happiness and what truly defines human well-being when stripped of basic sensory joys, resonating with contemporary discussions about wellness and fulfillment.

Final Verdict

Turn Me On (2024), directed by Michael Tyburski, is a refreshingly original and thought-provoking romantic comedy set in a future where the ability to experience pleasure has been engineered out of human DNA. When a lonely young man (likely played by Nick Robinson) discovers he's one of the few who can still feel, he embarks on a quirky and desperate quest to find a woman who can "turn him on," metaphorically and literally. With its blend of speculative fiction and heartfelt humor, the film charmingly explores themes of intimacy, desire, and the fundamental human need for connection in a world stripped of sensation. Premiering at Sundance and featuring strong performances, Turn Me On is a unique and engaging cinematic experience that invites audiences to reflect on what truly makes us feel alive.

Recommendations for filmmakers

• Embrace High-Concept Pitches: A strong, original premise can attract attention and provide a compelling foundation for a story, even with a smaller budget.

• Balance Genre Elements Thoughtfully: Successfully blending sci-fi with romantic comedy requires careful tonal management to ensure both humor and emotional depth are present.

• Focus on Character-Driven Narrative: Ground ambitious concepts in relatable human journeys. The protagonist's quest for connection is what makes the fantastical premise resonate.

• Leverage Festival Exposure: Premiering at prestigious festivals like Sundance can provide critical buzz, attract distributors, and build an audience for independent films.

• Collaborate with Original Voices: Adapting material from unique authors (like Etgar Keret) can bring a distinct voice and established quality to a film project.

Recommendations for Movie Industry

• Invest in Original High-Concept Stories: Support projects that offer fresh, imaginative premises, even if they don't fit neatly into traditional genre boxes. These often lead to critically acclaimed and culturally resonant films.

• Nurture Directors with Unique Voices: Encourage filmmakers like Michael Tyburski who have a distinctive style and a clear vision for their projects, as they contribute to the diversity and richness of cinema.

• Expand Distribution for Festival Films: Ensure that films that gain traction at major festivals receive wider accessibility through various theatrical and digital platforms, allowing more audiences to discover them.

• Recognize the Appeal of Genre Hybrids: Understand that audiences are increasingly drawn to films that creatively blend genres, offering new perspectives on familiar themes.

• Promote Films that Spark Conversation: Highlight films that explore philosophical or societal questions in an engaging way, encouraging discussion and deeper engagement beyond simple entertainment.

Final Conclusions

Turn Me On (2024), directed by Michael Tyburski, is a refreshingly original and thought-provoking romantic comedy set in a future where the ability to experience pleasure has been engineered out of human DNA. When a lonely young man (likely played by Nick Robinson) discovers he's one of the few who can still feel, he embarks on a quirky and desperate quest to find a woman who can "turn him on," metaphorically and literally. With its blend of speculative fiction and heartfelt humor, the film charmingly explores themes of intimacy, desire, and the fundamental human need for connection in a world stripped of sensation. Premiering at Sundance and featuring strong performances, Turn Me On is a unique and engaging cinematic experience that invites audiences to reflect on what truly makes us feel alive.