Parenthood (1989)

*If you noticed my absence, I’m flattered and surprised, and apologies for the lack of posts! I’ve been preoccupied with more important matters lately, like taking care of my wife and my newborn first child, Gemma! I’m a very proud papa, to say the least. And this next movie review (which had already been qued up before my wife went into labour) couldn’t be more appropriate:

The Buckman family is a midwestern family all dealing with their lives: estranged relatives, raising children, pressures of the job, and learning to be a good parent and spouse. (IMDb)

The script here is well-developed, and its multiple narrative strands are expertly pieced together; you get a really good feel for each of the characters (thanks also to a great cast), and the film never feels disjointed. The stories contain a nice blend of comedy and drama, never becoming too outrageous in either aspect, favouring realism over shock value, and they are capped off by a touching silent final scene as the family comes together to welcome yet another generation.

8/10 (Great)