Lovesick (1983)

Lovesick Poster

Sigmund Freud's ghost advises a married New York psychiatrist in love with a patient.

Overview
"Lovesick" is an American romantic comedy film launched in 1983, directed by Marshall Brickman. The movie stars Dudley Moore as the protagonist Dr. Saul Benjamin, a psychiatrist who painfully falls for a patient, depicted by Elizabeth McGovern. The movie likewise includes popular stars Alec Guinness and John Huston, who add a wonderful and funny undertone to the story.

Plot Summary
The film's narrative revolves around the ethical dilemma faced by Dr. Saul Benjamin, when he falls head over heels for his patient, Chloe Allen. Benjamin, a dedicated psychiatrist from Manhattan, is a man who values the ethical codes of his profession very much. Nevertheless, his life takes an unforeseen turn when he is thrown into a romantic whirlpool by his new patient, Chloe.

Chloe is a young, stunning woman who seeks treatment for anxiety due to complications in her married life. She becomes mentally based on Dr. Benjamin and with time, the 2 become inseparable. Benjamin grapples to preserve professionalism, however he can't deny his feelings for Chloe.

The narrative intensifies as Benjamin starts consulting his ghostly Freudian coach, played by Alec Guinness, in an attempt to find solutions to his problem. His coach's guidance does little to hinder his love for Chloe, and he ends up declaring his feelings to her. Subsequently, this leads to an upheaval in both their lives when the secret slips out into the general public and expert domain.

Themes and Characters
"Lovesick" effectively encompasses the exploration of ethical borders and the conflict in between expert obligation and personal desires. This theme is crafted with a mix of humor and feeling, painting a poignant picture of Benjamin's internal conflict.

The main character, Dr. Saul Benjamin, is a quintessentially pleasant character, who undergoes an intense psychological roller rollercoaster. Through Dudley Moore's reliable portrayal, audiences engage with Benjamin's predicament, experiencing his dilemmas and rooting for his joy.

Chloe Allen, represented by Elizabeth McGovern, is an enigmatic character whose vulnerabilities are matched with inexplicable appeal, making her tempting. Guinness's cameo as Dr. Sigmund Freud includes a surreal edge to the film, enhancing the humor and eccentricity.

Crucial Reception
"Lovesick" received a mixed reception from critics. Some praised the film's wacky blend of moderate eccentricity and Freudian analytical humor, while others criticized its failure in creating a credible romantic story. Despite differing views, "Lovesick" remains an unforgettable film from the early 1980s. It challenges conventional romantic stories, inviting audiences to fathom the intricacy of love and desire in the realm of ethics and societal expectations.

Top Cast