Rating: ★★★☆☆(3/5 Stars)
Released 06-28-2024
Watched 07-14-2024
Reviewed 07-16-2024
Watched on Netflix
"No great tryst ever started with someone being rational."
“A Family Affair,” directed by Richard LaGravenese and written by Carrie Solomon, attempts to navigate the complex interplay of familial relationships and romantic entanglements. It offers a blend of humor and drama with an impressive cast. Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, Joey King, Liza Koshy, and Kathy Bates come together in this Netflix romantic comedy, which, despite its star-studded lineup, struggles to rise above its cliched storyline.
The plot centers around Zara (Joey King), a 24-year-old personal assistant to the egotistical Hollywood star Chris Cole (Zac Efron). Tired of being underappreciated, Zara quits her job, only for Chris to follow her to her home, where he meets and falls for her widowed mother, Brooke (Nicole Kidman). This unexpected romance sets the stage for a series of comedic and dramatic encounters, especially when Zara discovers their relationship in a rather awkward manner.
Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron bring their charm to the screen, but their on-screen chemistry feels forced. The initial awkwardness between their characters fits the narrative but doesn’t evolve naturally, leaving a sense of discomfort that persists throughout the film. Joey King, however, delivers a strong performance, effectively capturing the frustration and emotional turmoil of a daughter caught in the crossfire of an unconventional love triangle. Kathy Bates, as always, shines with her portrayal of Leila, bringing warmth and depth to her role as Brooke’s mother-in-law.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to draw out moments of genuine humor and emotion, although it often succumbs to predictable tropes. The Christmas gathering at Leila’s house and the subsequent family confrontations add depth, revealing the strained relationships and unresolved grief underpinning the characters’ interactions. Yet, these moments are interspersed with cliched elements that detract from the overall impact.
Despite its mixed critical reception, “A Family Affair” has found an audience on Netflix and topped the charts upon its release. This indicates a certain appeal, likely due to the star power and the relatable, if somewhat overdone, storyline. It’s a movie that fits well into the “Netflix night-in” category—enjoyable enough to watch once but not necessarily memorable.
In conclusion, “A Family Affair” is a charming yet flawed romantic comedy that benefits from a talented cast and moments of genuine emotion. While it will never become a must-see classic, it’s worth a watch for those with Netflix seeking a light-hearted film with a few heartfelt moments.
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