All Happy Families Review: Josh Radnor’s Adult Coming-of-Age Dramedy Charms

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All Happy Families Review: Josh Radnor's Adult Coming-of-Age Dramedy Charms

As a seasoned movie buff with over three decades of cinematic experiences under my belt, I must say that “All Happy Families” is a refreshing addition to the dramedy genre. The film’s exploration of adult coming-of-age storylines resonated deeply with me, as it reminded me that life’s major transitions can occur at any age.

In the heartwarming comedy-drama All Happy Families, directed by Haroula Rose and starring Josh Radnor (best known for his roles in ‘How I Met Your Mother’ and ‘Hunters’), we witness a family going through turbulent times. Life as they know it seems to be shifting dramatically, leaving them all at sixes and sevens. However, what might be hardest to swallow is the realization that they too must adapt if they are to navigate these major life changes with grace and resilience.

In the movie, Radnor welcomes Chandra Russell (South Side), Becky Ann Baker (Ted Lasso, Freaks and Geeks, Girls), John Ashton (the Beverly Hills Cop series), and Rob Huebel (Transparent, Arrested Development)). The plot revolves around the tumultuous period in the Landry family’s life where their individual struggles intersect. One of the film’s unique features is its portrayal of an uncommon narrative: a mature coming-of-age story, demonstrating that significant life changes are not exclusive to the ages between 11 and 18.

In summary, the filmmaker, who collaborated with Coburn Goss on the script, implies that life offers chances for personal development. At a crucial juncture, it becomes evident that growing up can be enjoyable and empowering. Although the storyline may get a bit convoluted at times, similar to other heartwarming films about dysfunctional families like “Little Miss Sunshine” and “The Kids Are Alright”, this endearing indie film effectively captures your emotions.

When Everybody Must Change All At Once

The title of the movie draws inspiration from Leo Tolstoy’s novel “Anna Karenina,” which posits that all contented families share common traits, but each troubled family experiences its misfortunes in a distinct and unfortunate manner. The struggle is a universal yet uninvited predicament for many members of the Landry clan.

There’s a screenwriter/actor named Graham (Radnor), who hasn’t quite broken through to middle age without being discovered. In contrast, his brother Will (Huebel) has gained fame on a strange yet incredibly popular TV show. When Will suddenly shows up at their family home unannounced, people start talking. However, Will claims he just wants to spend time with the family. Graham is skeptical, but since he’s been left in charge and needs help fixing up the childhood home they bought together, he could definitely use some assistance from his brother.

But even that becomes triggering because Will’s success just reminds Graham of what has always been beyond his reach. Still, lurking behind Will’s façade is a potential Hollywood scandal that may affect his career. Radnor and Huebel make for a good pairing here, and while it’s a stretch to believe these two are related, you cannot deny the actors’ chemistry. Where Will comes across as charming and confident, Graham, forever in disheveled mode, can’t seem to get it together.

Tracking Several Story Arcs in the Dramedy

All Happy Families Review: Josh Radnor's Adult Coming-of-Age Dramedy Charms

In this dramedy, numerous intriguing plotlines are introduced: Papa Roy (Ashton), who’s been emotionally adrift, might be facing another gambling predicament. Simultaneously, Dana (Russel), a former school crush of Graham and an up-and-coming chef, makes her appearance. There’s a chance that Dana will become the family’s new tenant, and it won’t take long for Graham to consider the idea of a relationship with her. Dana is mindful of Graham’s constraints, but she’s willing to entertain the notion.

The atmosphere is strongly independent and authentic, with a clear sense that we’re peeking into these characters’ lives at critical junctures. It takes patience to follow the movie’s narrative as it unfolds and connects the pieces, but it manages to keep you hooked instead of deterring you. Fortunately, this film has an unexpected advantage: a hidden strength that not many would guess.

Becky Ann Baker Is Having a Moment

Becky Ann Baker is indeed a remarkable actress. She has an extensive background in supporting roles, such as playing Loreen, Hannah’s (Leah Dunham) mother, on HBO’s popular show Girls, and acting alongside Radnor himself in Hunters. As Sue in the series All Happy Families, her performance is one of the highlights. Remarkably, her character’s storyline, despite not being heavily promoted, resonates deeply with viewers, particularly in terms of self-advocacy. This is striking given that Baker shares the screen with other prominent actors and Sue’s story arc isn’t initially presented as a major focus.

Witnessing Baker navigate an emotionally challenging situation as she struggles to find the right response when a previous supervisor inappropriately touches her at a retirement event is captivating. There are also pivotal scenes where Baker gains self-awareness and reconnects with her own kinship group. “What’s this supposed to be my family?” she exclaims, surveying the group with dismay. Yet, that very question might open up fresh opportunities for her character development.

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2024-09-23 03:36