The film's unlikely heroine, Sammy Smalls (Christin Milioti), has a host of insecurities. She walks with a limp, survived cancer as a child, and can't seem to let anyone touch her without breaking into fits of laughter. While on the job as a supermarket security guard, Sammy falls for a street musician named Eugene Zaslavsky (Mark Rendall). The two become quick friends; and, when it seems that their relationship might finally reach that next step, they spend an awkward night together that causes Eugene to rethink their relationship. But, Sammy is determined to win him back, and sets off on a journey of sexual exploration in the hopes of proving her love-making prowess. What follows is a series of incredibly awkward, often uncomfortable, but always hilarious moments as Sammy enlists both both and women to "teach" her about sex. Year of the Carnivore is a refreshing, and sometimes shocking, take on the classic romantic comedy.The film was written and directed by Sook-Yin Lee. Lee is a former MuchMusic VJ, current CBC Radio host, and general woman-about-town Canadian who has amassed an impressive lists of accomplishments in the media industry. According to Lee, the title of this witty film "refers to the year Sammy takes a bite out of life and has her heart bitten", and what a year it is. Sammy's transformation from timid tomboy to confident sex kitten is what makes this film a sure bet during Hump Night.
Year of the Carnivore plays at 7:00pm on Wednesday Sept. 30th at the Globe.
