AFF Review: Cummings Farm
Funny things happen on the way to an orgy. Three young couples, in various levels of committment, decide to have an orgy over a weekend getaway at Cummings Farm. Why, it's not clear, but what what happens up to the moment of truth reveals more about the intended participants than anyone ever expected.
Alan and Yasmine are dating, Tina and Todd are married with children, and Rachel and Gordon are living together. Even before everyone arrives at the farm, it's clear that no one really thought out the consequences of a sexual free-for-all. Rachel (Aimee-Lynn Chadwick) is supportive of Gordon (Jordan Kessler), but he's an alcoholic. Alan (Adam Busch) is uptight, and Yasmine (Yasmine Kittles) is demanding. Tina (Laura Silverman) is the devoted wife and mother, and how the crude and selfish Todd (Ted Beck) managed to win her is a mystery. These are three very different relationships, none of which will survive unaltered by the experience.
Everything's planned out in detail by Todd. But as the moment of truth gets closer, everyone's foibles as couples and individuals are brought to the fore. The film is less about the intended orgy and more about the group dynamics and motivations, as everyone's motivations are revealed.
The standout performances in Cummings Farm are Silverman and Beck. Beck plays "creepy haha only serious" a little too well. The role of Todd seems like it was written for him, which may be the case, as Beck wrote the screenplay. Silverman (The Sarah Silverman Program, Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist) is superb as Tina, the most realized character. She's vulnerable, but willing to go along with the orgy because her husband is so enthusiastic. But she's not spineless, although it takes quite a lot for her to switch off her accommodating tendencies.
The film is raunchy at times. However, the focus is not on sexual acts themselves, but the dynamics and consequences of them. As tawdry as some moments could be, Cummings Farm is rarely played for cheap laughs. It's never stated who initiated the idea, but it's evident none of these characters really thought out the consequences of their actions. Everyone's immaturity and inability is only exacerbated by the attempt at a sophisticated sexual encounter.
Cummings Farm is raunchy and insightful, and has an unforgettable money shot. And some "genuine coon-ass" art -- the movie was shot in rural areas around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It's the first directorial effort for Andrew Drazek. Cummings Farm has one local connection: Screenwriter/actor Ted Beck is from Austin.