Bobby Cannavale leads this heartfelt family drama about fathers and sons. Starring as Max, he shares screen time with Rose Byrne as Jenna, portraying parents of the film’s protagonist, Ezra, a neurodivergent 11-year-old.
Ezra’s Meaningful Representation
At the core of Ezra is its focus on authentic representation. Introducing William A. Fitzgerald playing Ezra
, a genuine young actor on the spectrum, the film vigilantly anchors its narrative in real-life experiences of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Conflict and Comedy Blend Seamlessly
The film begins with Max performing his stand-up routine, humorously reflecting on the complexities of raising a child with ASD. His stand-up comic persona juxtaposes sharply with actual life, where his son faces expulsion due to impulsive behavior.
Parental Dilemmas in Full Display
A notable scene encapsulates this dynamic—Jenna tries reasoning with school officials for one more chance while Max aggressively defends his son, pointing out unfair treatment towards Ezra.
The Road to Protection and Escape
An unavoidable psych evaluation recommends drug therapy and specialized schooling for Ezra. Heartbroken by these measures, Max decides to take matters into his own hands by fleeing the situation. Max and Ezra flee to Michigan in the father’s car during one of the intense moments in the film.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings Depth
The ensemble cast brings intense relationships to life. Among them, Robert De Niro as Max’s difficult father, Rainn Wilson as a Michigan confidant, and Whoopi Goldberg as Max’s manager. Their interactions highlight the intricate dynamics between friends and family in complex adult lives.
An Emotional Journey Worth Watching
It’s often said that parenting never truly ends; scenes with Cannavale and De Niro amplify this sentiment profoundly. The film’s humor blends poignantly with despair, making it engaging yet deeply resonant.
The road trip element adds layers, transitioning from New Jersey to Michigan, encapsulating wild adventures that strengthen the bond between Max and Ezra.
A Confluence of Actors Delivering Impact
While the narrative might seem to shift heavily towards Max’s perspective, it’s ultimately named after Ezra, staying true to its roots focused on ASD representation. The striking performances across the ensemble elevate director Tony Goldwyn’s handling of Tony Spiridakis’ poignant script.
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