Falling (2015 film)

Falling poster

Falling (2015 film) is a British drama film directed by Viggo Mortensen in his directorial debut. The film stars Mortensen, who also wrote the screenplay, alongside a cast that includes Lance Henriksen, Sverrir Gudnason, and Laura Linney. Falling explores the complex relationship between a father and son, as they attempt to reconcile their differences after years of estrangement. The narrative delves into themes of family, memory, and acceptance, set against the backdrop of the rural United States.

Plot

The story revolves around John Peterson (played by Mortensen), a gay man living with his partner Eric (played by Gudnason) and their adopted daughter Monica in Southern California. John's father, Willis (played by Henriksen), a conservative and aging farmer from the Midwest, travels to California to stay with John after his mental state begins to deteriorate. The film navigates through the present and past using flashbacks to reveal the tumultuous relationship between John and Willis, highlighting the deep-seated issues that have kept them apart. As Willis struggles to adapt to his son's lifestyle and confront his failing memory, the film uncovers the layers of their complex relationship, leading to a poignant exploration of family dynamics and reconciliation.

Cast

• Viggo Mortensen as John Peterson
• Lance Henriksen as Willis Peterson
• Sverrir Gudnason as Eric
• Laura Linney as Sarah Peterson
• Hannah Gross as Gwen
• Terry Chen as Eli

Production

Falling marks Viggo Mortensen's debut as a director and screenwriter, showcasing his versatility in the film industry. Mortensen's decision to cast himself alongside Henriksen was driven by the desire to explore the nuanced relationship between father and son from a deeply personal perspective. The film was shot in various locations across the United States, capturing the stark contrast between the rural Midwest and urban California. Mortensen's approach to storytelling emphasizes character development and emotional depth, aiming to present a realistic portrayal of family dynamics.

Reception

Upon its release, Falling received mixed reviews from critics. Praise was directed towards the performances, particularly Henriksen's portrayal of Willis, which was noted for its complexity and emotional depth. Mortensen's direction and screenplay were also commended for their sensitivity and insight into difficult family relationships. However, some critics found the film's pacing slow and the narrative at times challenging to engage with. Despite the mixed critical reception, Falling was recognized for its contribution to discussions around family, acceptance, and the challenges of aging.

Themes

The film extensively explores themes of acceptance, aging, and the complexities of family relationships. Through the strained relationship between John and Willis, Falling addresses the challenges of reconciliation and understanding within a family divided by ideological differences and personal misunderstandings. The use of flashbacks serves not only as a narrative device but also as a means to explore the impact of memory on our relationships and identities.