Watch In the Family

In the Family is a 2011 independent drama film, written, directed and produced by Patrick Wang. The movie revolves around the character of Joey (played by Patrick Wang), who is a skilled carpenter and a gay man living in rural Tennessee with his partner, Cody (Trevor St. John), and their young son, Chip (Sebastian Banes). Joey is a doting father and a loving partner but his world is turned upside down when Cody is suddenly killed in a car accident. Joey's life is further complicated when he learns that Cody's will favors Cody's sister and her husband as guardians for Chip, leaving Joey with no legal rights to their son.

The movie follows Joey's journey as he confronts the challenges of the legal system, his partner's family and his own identity. The film explores themes such as family, loss, grief, identity and the complexities of parenthood. It also deals with the subject of same-sex relationships and the challenges that can arise in such partnerships.

The film is particularly notable for its unconventional storytelling that defies the conventions of traditional film-making. This is evident in the way that Wang frames his shots, which often involves lingering takes that allow the audience to fully immerse themselves in the setting and the characters' emotions. This style of storytelling also extends to the dialogue, which is largely unscripted and feels organic and natural.

At the heart of the movie is Patrick Wang's standout performance as Joey. Wang's portrayal is nuanced and heartfelt, capturing the complexities and contradictions of a man who is at once strong, vulnerable, and deeply flawed. Likewise, the supporting cast is outstanding, particularly Trevor St. John as Joey's partner Cody, whose presence haunts the film despite his limited screentime.

Overall, In the Family is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that explores important themes in a unique and unconventional way. The film is a testament to the power of independent cinema, showcasing the talent and creativity of its cast and crew. Anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas with an emphasis on storytelling and emotion should give this movie a chance - it is a true gem.

In the Family is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 82.