The Sperm Bank (2023) – Movie Review and Summary (with Spoilers)
Can you imagine, to hopefully have kids one day, having to go to a room where everyone knows what you are doing and… you know.
Film Summary
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Rob has testicular cancer, so the idea is he should freeze his sperm so that, in the future, he can have kids. However, everything about the act, from the nurse to the porn to his friends cheering him on and what he will go through to be free of cancer, makes ejaculation far more difficult than anyone seems to appreciate.
Character Descriptions
Please Note: This character guide is not an exhaustive list of every cast member, and character descriptions may contain what can be considered spoilers.
Rob
Rob is a young man with cancer that, since it is what you assumingly do, is getting his sperm frozen since he specifically has stage 4 testicular cancer.
Review
Our Rating: Mixed (Divisive)
Highlights
How The Humor Balances Out With A Serious Situation
Often, jokes are based on something taboo. Whether it is something people are uncomfortable talking about or is something that is considered not for general conversation. So to have it where, in a movie, tv show, or live performance address that taboo subject, it can lead to shock and potentially laughter. For comedy is often about making a safe space to laugh, even if at something horrible.
Case in point, a man having testicular cancer. Yes, his having stage 4 means he is at a very dangerous place where the cancer can metastasize and kill him. Also, considering how much manhood is defined by your genital appearance and potentially your ability to have kids, we’re dealing with a very heavy subject matter.
But, at the same time, having to masturbate in what looks like a doctor’s office, using porn and a device, who knows how many people touched? Never mind, have everyone in the building know why you entered a room? That’s awkward and weird but also funny. I mean, masturbation is funny because you know most people can do it and probably do it, especially when they don’t have a sex partner, yet it is a dirty subject. From the act itself to what gets you off, to where you get off, whether you use toys, lube, socks, or what have you? There is so much fodder for a joke as you get people to move past how uncomfortable they are and can address how ridiculous it is to avoid the elephant in the room.
On The Fence
Sometimes You May Wish They Reeled In The Comedy
With that said, Rob’s friends do the most in such a way that isn’t funny. Them getting the whole building to clap for Rob to cum, and then go out on the streets? Honestly, this on-the-fence topic wouldn’t exist if they were cut from the short.
General Information
Director(s) | Margaux Susi |
Screenplay By | Rob Scerbo, Jeremy Culhane |
Based On | Rob Scerbo’s Cancer Journey |
Date Released (Film Festival – Tribeca Film Festival) | June 19, 2023 |
Genre(s) | Comedy, Drama, Young Adult |
Film Length | 15 Minutes |
Content Rating | Not Rated |
Noted Characters and Cast | |
Rob Scerbo | Rob Scerbo |
Recommendations
If you like this movie, we recommend:
- Chasing Life: A show about a 20-something who has cancer
Also, check our movies page for more recommendations and our latest movie reviews.
What Is “The Sperm Bank” Rated And Why?
“The Sperm Bank” is not rated but features cursing and an x-ray depiction of male genitals.