The Family Stone
As one of the more likable holiday films to come around in a long time, the comedy The Family Stone will also surprise you with its depth and emotional appeal.
Story
At first glance, The Family Stone appears to be yet another silly romp about family dynamics. But the Stones, a vivacious, loving, liberal-minded New England family, are more than just cardboard cut-outs; they're as real as any dysfunctional family can be. The film begins with the Stones getting ready for their annual holiday gathering. Matriarch Sybil (Diane Keaton) is especially anxious to meet her eldest son's (Dermot Mulroney) girlfriend, Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker). The family has been warned Meredith is a controlling, neurotic New Yorker with very little redeemable qualities. And when Meredith arrives, she certainly does nothing to dispel the notion, meeting her potential eccentric in-laws with a mix of awkwardness, confusion and hostility. Yet, oddly enough, the disruption brings about some needed changes within the family Stone, allowing them to come together and realize their extraordinary capacity for love.
Acting
Everyone in this stellar ensemble rises to the occasion and truly paints a very vivid picture of a family devoted to one another--but who are less than approachable to outsiders. As mom, Keaton turns in yet another genuine look at a complicated woman dealing with some insurmountable obstacles, while Craig T. Nelson, as her loyal husband, does a nice job conveying a warmth to their marriage. Playing their grownup children is Mulroney as the straight-laced "suit" Everett, who isn't all that priggish; Luke Wilson, as the laid-back Ben, who seems to have strayed the most from his family; and Rachel McAdams as the passionate, if rather acerbic, little sister. But the real revelation is Parker as the uptight, highly unlikable Meredith. It's quite a departure from her fun-lovin' Sex
and the City days, and the Parker--who truly is one of the better comedic actresses we have today--easily handles the unpleasant chores of playing someone suffering with chronic foot-in-mouth syndrome.
Direction
Like many newbie filmmakers, writer/director Thomas Bezucha--whose only other credit is the little seen indie Big Eden--has the advantage of having that certain fresh quality to his work. Stone's dialogue is snappy, poignant and spot-on, as the Stones interact with each other in all too familiar ways. The whole Meredith scenario will perhaps have many of us remembering similar situations--from both sides of the fence. It's just as painful to have to meet the family of someone you love for the first time as it is dealing with a family member's poor choices in mates. And what makes
The Family Stone stand out even more is how Bezucha truly defines the term "dramedy." From the trailer, the film seemed to be a balls-out, slap-sticky comedy, which in many ways it is, but you may be surprised to see how The Family Stone's more serious tones will touch you.
Bottom Line
Hollywood.com rated this film 3 1/2 stars.