Based in part on Kempinski’s own experiences, Separation charts the relationship between a disabled American actress and an agoraphobic English playwright. New Yorker Sarah Wise hasn’t worked for seven years because of a debilitating condition that leaves her walking on crutches at best and playwright Joe Green can barely face the thought of leaving his living room, something which has stunted his creative juices. When she calls him for the rights to perform one of his plays though, a transatlantic connection forms which slowly develops into something life-changing.
Where Separation really works is in the depth of character that has been drawn, neither one is defined by their condition but rather emerge as fully-fledged people, rich in complexity and experience as they grow to become emotionally dependent on each other even at such long distance and reaffirm the understanding that no matter how much their lives may be affected by their illnesses, they can always ensure that they don’t limit them. There’s a dry sense of humour here too as well as the tumult of grand emotion, a richness that alleviates some of the lack of pace.