I Know That The Family Stone Is A Cringe Christmas Movie, But It Gets So Much Better Upon A Second Viewing

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As someone who initially dismissed The Family Stone as just another cringe-worthy Christmas movie, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by my second viewing of this film. Initially, I found the Stone family’s behavior towards Meredith Morton to be downright unacceptable, but upon learning about Sybil’s (Diane Keaton) impending death from cancer, it all made sense.

It’s not common for me to jump to conclusions, but when the topic of “The Family Stone” comes up, it seems like people can be divided into two categories: those who have completely forgotten about it or disliked it so strongly that they erased it from their memory. Until now, I was part of the second group.

After initially disliking “The Family Stone” when my wife and I were dating, I recently rewatched this movie that some might find awkward during the holiday season. To my surprise, I found myself enjoying it! Now, I wouldn’t rank it among the greatest Christmas movies or romantic comedies of all time. However, knowing the eventual fate of the Stone family and understanding the struggles they face when their son brings home a girl who isn’t suitable for him, my viewing experience was significantly different this time around.

Knowing What The Stone Family Is Going Through Adds So Much Context

Initially, during the first two-thirds of my initial viewing of “The Family Stone“, I found myself questioning why the Stone family, particularly Sybil (Diane Keaton) and Amy (Rachel McAdams), were being so unkind towards Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker). However, as the movie neared its end, it became clear that not only was Sybil battling cancer, but she was also nearing her final days, with this Christmas being her last.

Although their behavior towards Everett’s (Dermot Mulroney) girlfriend in the film may come across as rude, insensitive, and harsh, it’s important to consider that they are under immense stress due to an impending loss – the family matriarch is battling cancer. This perspective transforms The Family Stone from a movie about a reluctant family to accept a son’s girlfriend into a compelling drama that explores a family’s struggle to maintain unity in the face of an approaching tragedy.

Though The Movie Is Still Nerve-Racking, It’s Not As Bad The Second Time Around

Similar to many films that portray complex familial tensions, “The Family Stone” is quite unsettling. Even upon a second watch, this movie, which leaves one in tears without fail, retains its nerve-wracking nature. However, during the rewatch, it’s significantly less intense than the initial viewing might have suggested. Scenes such as the strained family dinner, where Meredith seems unable to stop talking and makes me want to burrow deeper into my couch, are still awkward and make me want to retreat, but not nearly as much as they did initially.

As a gamer, I’ve found myself squaring off against Meredith, who sometimes seems to deserve it. Yet, knowing when and where those moments occur makes the repeated encounters less grating. Moreover, understanding how things pan out for all characters helps soften the blow when things get tough. However, when it comes to the game’s ending, nothing can prepare you for the emotional wreckage it leaves behind – that part is still a tear-jerker.

At the moment, “The Family Stone” is accessible for streaming to those who have an Amazon Prime membership. I strongly recommend you revisit this heartfelt, tear-jerking, yet occasionally humorous Christmas film if you haven’t done so already.

Stream The Family Stone on Prime Video.

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2024-12-13 18:11