Watch Punch

Punch, a 2002 Canadian independent film, revolves around the lives of four young women struggling with their relationships with men, both romantic and familial, as well as society's expectations of them. The film begins with a glimpse into the life of Sam (Sonja Bennett), who is in an unsatisfying relationship with her boyfriend, Dan (Marc Strange). Sam is a pretty and well-liked woman who works at an auto parts store, but she still feels lost and unsure of herself. Her life changes when she discovers that she is pregnant after a sexual encounter with another man.

In the meantime, Sam's friend and co-worker, Lou (Meredith McGeachie), is dealing with her own insecurities. She is a butch lesbian who is attracted to her beautiful co-worker, Cassie (Marnie Alton). However, Cassie is straight and is in a relationship with a man named Richard (Michael Riley).

Richard is a successful businessman who is not satisfied with his life. He is emotionally distant from Cassie, and their relationship is more about convenience than love. Richard becomes intrigued with Sam, and the two strike up an unlikely friendship that will test their boundaries and ultimately lead to a reckoning for both.

Punch explores the lives of these four characters, as well as their friends and family, over the course of several months. The film tackles issues such as sexuality, unplanned pregnancy, infidelity, and societal norms.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is how it deals with sexuality. The characters are all at different points on the spectrum, and their relationships with each other are complex and nuanced. It is refreshing to see a film that is not afraid to portray people who don't fit into traditional gender roles or sexual categories.

The film is also notable for its strong performances from the four leads. Sonja Bennett does an excellent job conveying Sam's confusion and vulnerability, while Meredith McGeachie brings a quiet intensity to Lou. Michael Riley shines as Richard, the character who seems to have it all but is ultimately unfulfilled.

The film's direction and cinematography are also impressive. The director, Guy Bennett, uses a lot of handheld camera work and natural lighting, which gives the film a raw and intimate feel. The film is set in Vancouver, and the city's stunning landscapes are used to great effect throughout.

Overall, Punch is a powerful and thought-provoking film that is well worth watching. Its exploration of sexuality and relationships is nuanced and honest, and its strong performances and direction make it a standout independent film.

Punch is a 2003 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.