Our take
Given today’s rising singlehood and reluctance to have children, family films like Parenthood seem to feel a little passé. Some elements, such as the reaction to Kevin’s need for psychological counselling, certainly are a little dated. But through the multiple branches of the Buckman family, Parenthood reflects the very same concerns that has led to today’s hesitation to have a family– the hopes and expectations each generation have with each other and themselves, and the disappointment we get when they’re not met. Even with how large the family gets, the film balances each story effectively, letting each branch have their own moment to shine. Gently poking fun at the mismatch, Parenthood finds humor and warmth in the effort they put in trying.
What it won
Oscars
2 noms
Golden Globes
3 noms
The story
The story of the Buckman family and friends, attempting to bring up their children. They suffer/enjoy all the events that occur: estranged relatives, the 'black sheep' of the family, the eccentrics, the skeletons in the closet, and the rebellious teenagers.
Elsewhere
"An ambitious, keenly observed, and often very funny look at one of life's most daunting passages..."
— Variety Staff
The story of the Buckman family and friends, attempting to bring up their children. They suffer/enjoy all the events that occur: estranged relatives, the 'black sheep' of the family, the eccentrics, the skeletons in the closet, and the rebellious teenagers.
The details
Who picked it
Isabella Endrinal is a curator at A Good Movie to Watch. She's now free from the corporate night shift. Previous articles have been published in outlets such as NANG Magazine. She's currently catching up on some classic films… if she isn't coping with the fact that the Haikyu anime will end soon.
