“The Son” (2022)

Drama

Running Time: 123 minutes

Written by: Florian Zeller and Christopher Hampton

Directed by: Florian Zeller

Featuring: Hugh Jackman, Laura Dern, Vanessa Kirby, Zen McGrath and Anthony Hopkins

Peter: “When you hurt yourself, it’s as if you’re doing it to me.”

Nicholas: “And when you hurt Mom, you were doing it to me.”

Florian Zeller’s “The Son” is not an easy watch. It’s a film that delves into the raw and often uncomfortable territory of mental illness, specifically depression, within a fractured family unit. While Zeller’s previous film, “The Father,” took viewers inside the disorienting world of dementia, “The Son” tackles a different kind of internal struggle, one often veiled by silence and misunderstanding.

Hugh Jackman delivers a powerful performance as Peter, a lawyer whose seemingly perfect life with his new partner Beth (Vanessa Kirby) and their newborn baby is disrupted by the arrival of his troubled teenage son, Nicholas (Zen McGrath), from his ex-wife Kate (Laura Dern). Nicholas is withdrawn, sullen, and harbors a dark secret. As Peter tries to understand and help his son, their relationship becomes increasingly strained, exposing the emotional fault lines that run deep within the family.

The brilliance of “The Son” lies in its ability to portray the complexities of mental illness. Nicholas’s depression isn’t presented as a series of dramatic outbursts, but rather a quiet desperation that manifests in self-harm and a sense of hopelessness. The film avoids easy explanations, instead focusing on the frustration and helplessness felt by both Nicholas and his parents.

Jackman is phenomenal as the concerned yet overwhelmed father. He portrays Peter’s love for his son with heartbreaking sincerity, but also his growing exasperation as Nicholas resists help. Dern is equally impressive as Kate, a mother struggling to come to terms with her son’s illness and her own past mistakes. Their arguments are raw and emotional, highlighting the deep-seated resentment that lingers after a divorce.

Zeller, along with co-writer Christopher Hampton, masterfully adapts the film from his stage play. The use of confined spaces and close-ups creates a sense of claustrophobia, mirroring the emotional turmoil of the characters. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the weight of the situation to sink in.

The Cycle of Trauma: “The Son” explores the ripple effects of trauma across generations. Peter’s strained relationship with his emotionally distant father (Anthony Hopkins) casts a long shadow, influencing his own parenting style. Nicholas, caught in the crossfire, struggles with his own mental health. The film doesn’t offer simplistic solutions, but rather a poignant exploration of how past hurts can manifest in unexpected ways.

The Burden of Caregiving: The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the toll that caring for someone with mental illness can take. Peter and Kate grapple with exhaustion, frustration, and guilt. “The Son” avoids sentimentality, instead highlighting the raw emotions and sacrifices that come with supporting a loved one through a difficult time.

Nuances of Performance: While Jackman and Dern deliver the film’s most impactful performances, the supporting cast shines as well. Zen McGrath, a newcomer, portrays Nicholas with a quiet intensity that captures the character’s internal struggle. Vanessa Kirby brings a layer of empathy and strength to Beth, caught between her love for Peter and the increasing strain on their new family.

Symbolism and Visuals: Zeller utilizes subtle visual cues to enhance the narrative. The use of cold, sterile colors in Peter’s office reflects the emotional distance he feels from his son. In contrast, Kate’s home is bathed in warmer tones, signifying her nurturing nature. The film’s score is sparse and melancholic, further emphasizing the characters’ emotional turmoil.

Open to Interpretation: “The Son” is a film that invites discussion. Nicholas’s illness is never explicitly named, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. The ending, while ambiguous, can be interpreted as a glimmer of hope for Nicholas’s recovery, or a heartbreaking reminder of the ongoing battle with mental illness.

A Conversation Starter: Ultimately, “The Son” is more than just a film; it’s a conversation starter. It sheds light on the complexities of mental illness and the importance of open communication within families. By bringing these issues to the forefront, “The Son” encourages viewers to show compassion, seek help when needed, and break the silence surrounding mental health.

“The Son” is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the film’s bleakness overwhelming, and the ending, while powerful, offers little in the way of easy resolution. Additionally, Anthony Hopkins’s reprisal of his role from “The Father,” while a welcome surprise, feels somewhat shoehorned in and doesn’t add much to the narrative.

However, these minor shortcomings do not detract from the film’s overall impact. “The Son” is a powerful and unflinching portrayal of mental illness and the challenges families face in dealing with it. It’s a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on empathy, communication, and the importance of familial bonds.