Key Takeaways:
– Tony Goldwyn’s “Ezra” is a compassionate film demonstrating the complexities of raising an autistic child.
– The film boasts standout performances from stars like Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Tony Goldwyn, and Robert DeNiro.
– The movie does not favor any side in the depicted custody dispute, ensuring each parent’s perspective is presented fairly.
– William Fitzgerald, an autistic actor who plays Ezra, contributes to the film’s authenticity.
– Contrary to expectations, the film carries a feel-good vibe by focusing on the father’s genuine intent to do what’s best for his son.
“Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra” hits all the right notes in its representation of autism, courtesy of the personal experiences incorporated by the writer Tony Spiridakis, who is also a father to an autistic son. The film, which holds an impressive ensemble cast led by Bobby Cannavale, makes an excellent case of authenticity and empathetic storytelling.
Max’s Character Journey
Cannavale takes on the role of a contentious stand-up comic, Max. He is convincingly portrayed, even as he navigates his complicated personal life and uses it as material for his comedy. Max, who is undergoing a sour divorce with his wife Jenna (Rose Byrne), kidnaps their autistic son, Ezra, to prevent him from being loaded with medication and confined to a special school.
Max’s Custody Battle
In the midst of a parental disagreement, wherein Max believes in an unmedicated environment amongst regular kids for Ezra, Jenna leans towards medication and special education. The film handles this with utmost sensitivity, showing the well-intentioned parents just doing their best without projecting either of them as “wrong.”
The On-The-Road Plot
Surprisingly, the context of a parent kidnapping his child does not take away from the feel-good ambiance. Instead, it sensitively explores Max’s intent to do the best for his son, despite his uncertainty around the best approach. He takes Ezra on a road trip towards LA, to appear on The Jimmy Kimmel Show, but things become complex as he becomes a legal fugitive.
Star-Packed Supporting Cast
The movie is spiced up further with supporting performances from legends like Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, and Vera Farmiga. Goldberg plays Max’s agent, Wilson his comedian friend who provides them shelter, and Farmiga, a potential love interest.
Road Chase and DeNiro’s Role
As Jenna and Max’s father, Stan (played by DeNiro), attempt to find Max and Ezra before the police, a sense of urgency is added to the plot. DeNiro shines in his robust fatherly role, reflecting an aggressive parent trying to compensate for his own parental shortcomings.
Goldwyn’s Directorial Brilliance
Despite the potentially schmaltzy premise, the film never ventures into overt sentimentality. Goldwyn, better known as an actor, has mastered directing since the ‘90s. His touch gives the film a balanced sweetness, making the film more believable and less Hollywood-like..
Fitzgerald’s Performance and the Film’s Ultimate Message
Fitzgerald gives an honest portrayal of Ezra. The character is shown as just another kid who is imperfect and could be challenging. The film’s ultimate message is that every child, including Ezra, deserves to be treated with dignity. This is beautifully represented in a focused, nuanced manner by Goldwyn, giving this movie its much-needed edge.
Bringing Autism to the Forefront
“Tony Goldwyn’s Ezra” is a refreshingly authentic portrayal of autism, unfolding a heartwarming father-son tale. It goes beyond a stereotypical Hollywood narrative, focusing on the realities faced by families of autistic children. The combined efforts of everyone involved underscore the importance of understanding and dignity in dealing with autism.
