Watch Frank and Cindy

Frank and Cindy is a 2015 comedic drama film that follows the turbulent relationship between Frank Garcia (Oliver Platt) and Cindy Heller (Rene Russo), former members of an obscure punk band from the 1980s. The film is based on the real-life story of filmmaker G.J. Echternkamp, who documents his parents' lives as they struggle to make ends meet in their later years.

The film is primarily set in the family's cluttered Southern California home, which Frank and Cindy share with their son G.J. (Johnny Simmons), who has returned home to film his parents' lives for a documentary. From the outset, it is clear that Frank and Cindy are not your conventional parents; they are messy, disorganized, and spend most of their time chain-smoking and drinking.

The film explores the complicated history of Frank and Cindy's relationship and their past in the punk music scene. Cindy recounts her time as a backup singer, while Frank tries to relive his glory days as the frontman of the band, "Oxymoron." Despite their passion for music, it is their dysfunctional relationship that takes center stage throughout the film.

Although the family dynamic is often tense and volatile, the film delivers moments of humor and heart. The relationship between Frank and Cindy is particularly fascinating, as it becomes evident that they both still possess a deep love for each other, despite their constant bickering and disagreements. The dynamic that plays out between the two is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching.

The film also touches on the theme of aging and the harsh reality of growing old, particularly for those who did not achieve their dreams. Frank and Cindy's lives are filled with regret, and they struggle to come to terms with the fact that their lives have not gone as planned. They are bitter about their lost youth and the fact that they are now forced to live in a small, rundown house in a less than ideal neighborhood.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that while the relationship between Frank and Cindy is strained, it is their son G.J. who serves as the glue that keeps the family together. He is a stabilizing force in their lives, and despite the dysfunctionality, he loves his parents deeply.

Overall, Frank and Cindy is a compelling and emotional film that tugs at the heartstrings. The performances by Rene Russo and Oliver Platt are exceptional, and they do an outstanding job capturing the complex nature of their characters' relationship. The film is a touching portrayal of a family that is struggling to keep it together, despite their flaws and imperfections. If you are looking for a film that is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching, Frank and Cindy is a must-see.

Frank and Cindy is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.