I don’t think John Hawkes really makes enough films — because, admittedly, I’d like to see him at every possible turn — so, man, does he make those appearances count. His next starring role will be in The Sessions, a drama wherein he plays an iron lung-bound, polio-stricken man who decides that he wants to have sex before passing on.

I hate the Oscars — and I, concurrently, hate talking about them –but all that buzz he was getting out of Sundance, including our own, makes total sense when you see this preview. While just a quick glimpse, he looks to be in total command of this role, bringing warmth, humor, and gentleness to what many lesser actors would bungle in no time; while William H. Macy and Helen Hunt look to chip in fine work, but this is his show.

Watch the preview below (via Apple):

Synopsis: Based on the poignantly optimistic autobiographical writings of California-based journalist and poet Mark O’Brien, THE SESSIONS tells the story of a man confined to an iron lung who is determined–at age 38–to lose his virginity. With the help of his therapists and the guidance of his priest, he sets out to make his dream a reality.

Ben Lewin has written and directed The Sessions, which will open in limited release on October 26th.

Are you liking what’s on display here? Does Hawkes seem to have “it”?