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Sex comes under the microscope in Kinsey, but the focus for writer/director Bill Condon is to dissect the life of a scientist preoccupied with the dirty little secrets of humankind. It's clear from the outset where Kinsey's investigations will lead, but Condon's ability to be simultaneously funny and brutal makes this biopic larger than life. In the title role Liam Neeson is a solid presence, but it's Laura Linney as his long-suffering wife who anchors this jaw-dropping account.

Condon follows Alfred Kinsey from the 40s into the 50s when his book, Sexual Behavior In The Human Male, contradicts the repressed social decorum of the day to become a bestseller. Inevitably though, his poker-faced approach to sex warps his views on marriage and sparks a conflict of ideals for spouse Clara (who also prides herself on defying convention). Of course, in undermining their relationship, Kinsey finally awakens to the notion that love, more than sex, defines humanity.

"CONDON UNDERLINES THE TRAGEDY WITH OUTRAGEOUS HUMOUR"

He's a terribly flawed man but instead of soapy histrionics, Condon underlines the tragedy with outrageous humour. Among many unforgettable moments is Kinsey at the dinner table dispensing graphic advice to his daughters about losing their virginity. Unfortunately this treatment does have one major side effect: because it's clear that he isn't living in the real world, Neeson cannot inspire the passion which Kinsey feels for his work. Clinical detachment is the unavoidable result, but Linney's hearty portrayal helps to fill this gap. Moreover, Kinsey transcends one man's obsession to provide a social history that's not only witty and entertaining but also surprisingly profound.