THE SON (2022) – Emotional ride too close to reality for comfort
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The Son is written and directed by Florian Zeller whose last film was the outstanding “The Father” in 2020. That movie went on to receive 6 Academy Award nominations winning two for Best Actor and Best Screenplay. The Son comes across as an appropriately themed companion piece to The Father, although in comparison, it loses out on the emotional punch and overall mastery of the latter. The Father also had the distinct honour of having the great Anthony Hopkins in the lead although Mr Hopkins does make an impactful one scene guest appearance here. Not that The Son is any more lacking of talented cast either, which includes the likes of Hugh Jackman, Vanessa Kirby and Laura Dern. Perhaps the main factor that prevented this from being extraordinary is because of its familiar contemporary setting.
The Son centers its story on the turmoil caused by the depression and anti-social behaviour of a 17 year old teenage boy. His condition appeared to have manifested from the divorce in the family when his father (played by Hugh Jackman) married a new partner (Vanessa Kirby). We have the typical modern American family where the husband is career driven and chasing his dreams and the challenges of the wife being left alone to take care of a newborn baby. Having the additional burden of trying to attend to the needs of a depressed teenager is just like adding a straw on the camel’s back.
Florian Zeller’s talent is undeniable in his engaging and relatable screenplay, which is complemented by some outstanding performances. Indeed, this feels so real that it becomes increasingly uncomfortable to watch as we get closer to the characters’ struggle. The title The Son here refers to both the traumatised teenager and his father, who in turn is the son who is still struggling to reconcile his differences with his own father. The theme also reminds us of the unintended consequences of divorce on the rest of the family, particularly the impressionable minds of children.
Hugh Jackman also does some excellent emotional and authentic acting in this film. Zen McGrath, a young actor, was also effective as the tormented adolescent. He succeeded in frustrating us with his vivid portrayal of a person suffering from depression.
I can’t say I enjoyed watching The Son because of its heartbreaking theme, but I do appreciate the talent on display and the cautionary message delivered. It’s the polar opposite of a feel-good movie, so be mentally prepared for a bad time.