Watch The Savages

The Savages is a 2007 American indie drama film directed by Tamara Jenkins. The movie stars Philip Seymour Hoffman and Laura Linney as two siblings who are required to take care of their elderly father with dementia after years of neglect. The film explores the complexities and challenges of family relationships and responsibilities, particularly when it comes to caring for aging parents.

Wendy Savage (Laura Linney) is a struggling playwright in New York City, living with her boyfriend, a married man who is also her theater director. Jon Savage (Philip Seymour Hoffman) is a college professor in Buffalo who is going through a difficult romantic breakup. Despite their strained relationship, the two siblings come together when they receive a call from their father's girlfriend that their father Lenny (Philip Bosco) has been wandering outside in his bathrobe and is unable to take care of himself.

Wendy and Jon must travel to Arizona to take care of their father, a man who they barely know and who had abandoned them and their mother when they were young. Lenny is in the final stages of dementia and requires constant care, which neither sibling is fully equipped to provide. Throughout the film, the audience sees the siblings tackle the difficulties of caring for an aging parent with contrasting ideologies.

As Wendy and Jon struggle to come to terms with their father's condition, they are also forced to confront their own deep-seated emotional issues. Wendy is grappling with the realities of her failing writing career, while Jon is dealing with his own personal crisis. Both siblings are seeking redemption and this moment serves as a turning point in each of their lives.

Dealing with their father's failing health and mental condition, the Savage siblings find themselves overwhelmed by the emotional strain of the situation. It's not just about dealing with his immediate needs, but also dealing with the past, and facing the harsh realities of what they went through while growing up with their neglectful father. They start to bond with each other, as they strive to navigate the complex nature of family life, and learn to forgive their father, and themselves, for their past.

As the movie progresses, audiences witness Wendy and Jon grow closer, and come to an understanding of themselves and their father. The director, Tamara Jenkins, explores the intricacies of relationships and the complexities of family dynamics in a manner that is both realistic and relatable. It is a poignant reflection on the struggles of caring for aging parents and on what it means to let go of hurt, pain, and grievances in the interest of moving forward.

The performances of the three principal actors, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Laura Linney and Philip Bosco are nothing short of spectacular. Hoffman is particularly noteworthy for his portrayal of Jon Savage, who is at his lowest point in the movie. In contrast, Laura Linney's portrayal of Wendy is spot-on, making her character come across as both sympathetic and trying at times. Philip Bosco, as Lenny, gives a heart-warming portrayal of an elderly father who is unable to recall what was once most important to him.

The movie received critical acclaim on release, and was lauded for its touching story, excellent casting and direction, and a relatable and universal message. It is a movie that explores the complexity of human relationships, family dynamics and the fragility of life, and is likely to leave viewers thinking about it long after the end credits roll.

In conclusion, The Savages provides a poignant reflection on the struggles of dealing with aging parents and the complexities of family relationships. It is a beautifully acted, deeply involving story that is well worth a watch for anyone that has or has had to care for an aging parent, anyone who values close family relationships, and anyone looking for a well made, well acted drama with a potent message.

The Savages is a 2007 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 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 85.