Parenthood (1989)

When it comes to movies, sometimes I think about the blind spots, as in movies that I should have seen a long time ago but didn’t. I have plenty of them in mind and I’m sure I’ll get to them eventually but right now, it feels good to check at least one of them off the list. I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to get to this but it feels good to have finally watched Parenthood. I’m sure being a parent has its perks but this movie actually made me glad that I’m not one. I already have enough anxiety in my life, I’m not sure I’m ready to add more to it any time soon. But when it comes to this movie, this was actually one of the most entertaining comedy-dramas that I’ve ever seen. It shows the struggles of raising kids but it also shows what makes it great. I can’t remember a film that made me laugh and tug at my heartstrings at the same time but this is why I keep watching old movies that I haven’t yet seen. So that a movie-loving logic gremlin like me can see what he’s missing out on. I have more to add to this dysfunctional tale, so let’s explore the depth behind the chaos.

     The film follows the interconnected lives of the Buckman family as they navigate the ups and downs of raising children, maintaining relationships, and figuring out what it really means to be a parent. Through moments both chaotic and heartfelt, each family member faces their own struggles, insecurities, and small victories. There was so much to love about this movie, like the absolutely stellar cast for starters. It includes Steve Martin, Mary Steenburgen, Dianne Wiest, Jason Robards, Rick Moranis, Tom Hulce, Martha Plimpton, Keanu Reeves, and Harley Jane Kozak. Each character is different but they play them to absolute perfection. Even the kid actors are great, like a very young Joaquin Phoenix, Jasen Fisher, Ivyann Schwan, and Alex Burrall. It’s also not just the names I mentioned, but everyone involved in this cast was exceptional. I really couldn’t seem to find one flaw in these performances and that’s coming from someone who pays annoyingly close attention to the little things. Another thing is the music score. I’m not a huge fan of Randy Newman but he composed a score that felt both tender and sentimental, which gives it the emotional feel. I feel like a lot of this couldn’t have been possible though if it wasn’t for co-writer and director Ron Howard, who totally crushed it. I know I say that a lot but it feels necessary when I see something that stands out in the best possible way. Again, I’m not a parent and I can’t imagine what it’s like to be one, but this movie did an incredible job at representing what it’s like. This all makes for a pretty good reason to give a film like this a viewing.

     I had fun watching this film and even though I didn’t actually cry, I did find myself almost there at certain points. Maybe it’s just me, but I didn’t see any flaws in this classic and when it comes to someone as meticulous and quibbling as me, that’s saying a lot. Overall, I would have to give this movie a perfect 10 out of 10. If you’re looking for good comedy-drama or if you feel like you’re missing out, too, then definitely check this film out if you haven’t already. A chaotic but deeply human family portrait.