In the Family

In The Family This is the second picture this week I attended because someone recommended it to me. It was a fine film but 3 hours is too long for any film. I was touched and the story really reached me. I believe it was the first film I have seen where the parents are two gay men. Joey is Asian and Cody is not. This brings another dimension into the daring story. They were a loving couple and so wonderful with their son Chip. Cody had been previously married but his wife died. The adorable Chip was his son. Joey becomes friends with Cody and eventually they are lovers. It took each of them by surprise to discover the meaningful relationship. They both cared for Chip and gave him a stimulating loving environment .It was lovely to see how they all got along. Cody dies in an accident and the trouble begins. Cody’s family claims possession of the house and also claim family rights on Chip. Apparently Cody’s will had been written before Joey and Cody knew each other. It is heartbreaking because you could see that Chip and Joey had a close loving relationship. Chip called him Dad. Joey gets support from people from work. He is such a gentle soul that you couldn’t help but be on his side. The husband of one of his clients takes him under his wing and challenges Cody’s family. It was positive to see a gay relationship with a child so positively portrayed. It was also understandable to see the family strife when Cody died. It broke my heart when Joey was not allowed into the hospital room to see Cody because he was not considered family. It is an emotional story well told. Unfortunately it took too long to tell it. Editing would have made it an even better picture. The camera work was very interesting and powerful. When Cody is declared dead we only see the back of Joey’s head. The camera lingers on him for a long while. It is as if you reach right into Joey’s soul. It was emotional and powerful. Several times the camera lingers for a lengthy time to make an impact. At one point there actually is a black screen and you see nothing for a while. I have never seen this before in a film. The acting is excellent. The young child who plays Chip is unbelievable. Joey comes through as a caring, soft spoken gentleman. You can’t help but love him If you have 3 hours to spare this is well worth viewing.