Jim Jarmusch’s latest work, Father Mother Sister Brotheris divided into three separate episodes in which adult children are reunited (or not) with their parents, and the film boasts an all-star cast that includes Adam Driver, Cate Blanchett, Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, and more. But from the opening snowy drive to the final flashback to Paris, it’s hard to shake the nagging question, “What on earth is this?”
The first segment drops driver Jeff and Mayim Bialik’s Emily into rural America, where they gather to check on their eccentric widowed father, played by Tom Waits. As they drink water and stare out at the frozen lake, they chat about roof repairs, possible fraud, and his questionable luxury watch. It’s all just formal small talk surrounding suspicions, and never develops into drama or revelations.
The story then moves to Dublin, where Charlotte Rampling’s domineering novelist mother entertains her grown daughters, the strict Timothea played by Cate Blanchett and the wayward Lilith played by Vicki Krieps. The scene is filled with tea, fabricated success, and sibling rivalry that doesn’t move forward quickly. Lilith’s “Uber” arrives with her girlfriend in a clumsy attempt at humor, and the sisters giggle while reading an unread book, but true connection remains elusive. The interactions are polite and full of passive-aggressive jabs, but they never develop beyond the surface, leaving the impression that these characters barely know each other.
The final scene in Paris sees twins Skye (Indya Moore) and Billy (Luka Sabato) sort out their deceased parents’ apartment, drive around the city, and exchange vague memories over coffee. This was probably the strongest chapter of the three. There’s something warm here about rediscovering old photos and musings on fragility, and the chemistry between the brothers feels genuine.
As a standalone story, I enjoyed the clumsy humor and absurdity of “The Father,” which piles on humorous twists. I also appreciated the warmth and tenderness of “Sister Brother,” my favorite part of the film, depicting the natural, relaxed intimacy shared by a close-knit family. It’s a gentle and relatable film, but it’s also a test of patience. Your experience may vary.
- Email: neill@outloudculture.com
Luna Outdoor First Look Screening
Saturday, March 28th
luna outdoor
Celebrate with the bar’s $9 Glasshouse Red or White.
Doors open: 6pm
Session start: 7pm
Morning tea screening
Thursday, April 2nd
Luna Leederville & Luna on SX
Enjoy a delightful selection of English teas, shortbread, fruit cakes, mini palmiers and more before settling into this lovely, gentle drama from iconic independent film auteur Jim Jarmusch.
Arrival: 10:30am
Session start: 11am
Source: OutLoud! Culture – outloudculture.com
