Navigating the Storm of Separation

Read Time:3 Minute, 21 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Our Son
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Bill Oliver
Writer(s): Bill Oliver, Peter Nickowitz
Cast: Luke Evans, Billy Porter, Robin Weigert, Phylicia Rashād, Cassandra Freeman, Andrew Rannells, Kate Burton
Where To Watch: available now streaming on most VOD services

RAVING REVIEW: In OUR SON, directed by Bill Oliver, we are plunged into a narrative that balances tender and painful moments. Luke Evans, portraying Nicky, and Billy Porter, as Gabriel, take us on a rollercoaster ride from the highs of a seemingly perfect union to the depths of a messy divorce. The film is a poignant exploration of the dissolution of a relationship, offering a fresh lens on a story we thought we knew. The story itself will pull at your heartstrings, but it also reflects the reality of the situation.

At its heart, OUR SON is a story of a family coming apart at the seams. The film, spanning a lengthy timeline, chronicles the life of Nicky and Gabriel, a couple whose journey covers shared joys and challenges and the hurdles faced in overcoming them, culminating in how to handle their son Owen, portrayed by Christopher Woodley. But as the narrative unfolds, we're taken beneath the surface of this picture-perfect family to the brewing storm of unspoken tensions and unfulfilled needs.

The film hits a crescendo when Gabriel follows his heart and, in turn, changes this family dynamic, propelling the story into a battle of what this means for Owen. Bill Oliver and co-writer Peter Nickowitz navigate this familiar terrain with an authentic portrayal of a gay couple's separation. It's a narrative that delves into the couple's strife and paints a broader picture of the impact on their son and their community.

Evans and Porter genuinely shine in their roles. Evans brings a layered performance as Nicky, capturing the nuances of a man grappling with the aftermath of a broken man. Porter, stepping away from his more traditional roles, showcases an impressive range in his portrayal of Gabriel. Together, they create a dynamic that is both believable and profoundly moving.

OUR SON stands out for its inclusive portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community. The film goes beyond mere representation; it integrates actors from the community, making significant strides toward a more inclusive cinematic world. It also never makes that the focal point in the film; while the world makes strides to be inclusive, we will hopefully hit a day where this paragraph doesn’t need to exist, and this will just be another film about a family.

OUR SON faces its hurdles despite its strengths, just as its characters do. The film's pacing sometimes feels uneven, and there's a sense that more could have been explored in the individual journeys of Nicky and Gabriel. Either way, the film feels authentic and from the heart, which is the ultimate goal.

OUR SON revisits a familiar narrative through the unique perspective of a gay couple’s divorce. Evans and Porter's performances stand out, bringing an authenticity that highlights the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. The film is a notable contribution to cinema, not just for its storytelling but for its portrayal of relationships and the challenges they encounter. It's an emotional journey that provides insight and stirs empathy, making it a memorable watch.

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of VERTICAL ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER: I occasionally receive free products for review purposes. Whether these products are gifted or self-purchased, my opinions are unbiased and solely my own. Following FTC guidelines, I fully disclose any material connections to brands.