In the Family (2008 film)

In the family poster 2

In the Family is a 2008 American drama film directed by Patrick Wang, who also wrote the screenplay, produced, and starred in the film. The movie explores themes of family, loss, and the legal struggles of non-traditional families. It focuses on the story of Joey Williams (played by Patrick Wang), a gay man who loses his partner, Cody Hines (played by Trevor St. John), in a car accident. Following Cody's death, Joey discovers that Cody's will has not been updated to reflect their relationship, leaving Joey with no legal claim to their shared home or their son, Chip Hines (played by Sebastian Banes), whom they were raising together. The film delves into Joey's fight to keep custody of Chip against Cody's sister, Eileen (played by Kelly McAndrew), who is named as Chip's guardian in Cody's outdated will.

Plot

The film begins by showcasing the life of Joey Williams and Cody Hines, a happy couple living in Tennessee with their son, Chip, whom Cody had fathered through a previous heterosexual relationship. Their life is turned upside down when Cody dies in a car accident, and Joey learns that Cody's will leaves him without any legal rights to their son or their home. The story then follows Joey's legal battle to regain custody of Chip, exploring the complexities of family law, especially as it pertains to gay couples in the United States, and the definition of what constitutes a family.

Cast

• Patrick Wang as Joey Williams
• Trevor St. John as Cody Hines
• Sebastian Banes as Chip Hines
• Kelly McAndrew as Eileen
• Peter Hermann as Dave Robey
• Susan Kellermann as Sally Hines

Production

The film marks Patrick Wang's directorial debut and is notable for its sensitive portrayal of its characters and the legal and emotional challenges they face. Wang's approach to storytelling, characterized by long takes and a focus on the nuances of human relationships, has been praised for its depth and realism. The film was shot on location in various parts of Tennessee, providing an authentic backdrop for the story.

Reception

In the Family received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly that of Patrick Wang and Sebastian Banes. Critics highlighted the film's thoughtful and nuanced exploration of its themes, its avoidance of melodrama, and its commitment to character-driven storytelling. Despite its positive reception, the film was noted for its limited theatrical release and the challenges it faced in reaching a wider audience.

Themes

The film explores several themes, including the nature of family, the legal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and the impact of loss and grief. It also addresses the importance of legal protections for non-traditional families and the often complex legal landscape they must navigate. Through its detailed portrayal of Joey's struggle, the film invites viewers to reflect on the meaning of family and the ways in which legal and societal norms can both support and undermine familial bonds.

Awards

In the Family was recognized at various film festivals and by critics' associations for its screenplay, direction, and performances. While it may not have won major industry awards, its critical success underscored the film's impact as an important work in the realm of independent cinema and LGBTQ+ storytelling.