3 out of 5 stars
Within the world of blockbusters and one that is saturated by Marvel, an art-house black and white project is a welcomed change for many filmgoers. Mike Mills (20th Century Women) has established himself as an artistic director in this independent atmosphere. His films are shown with comfort and joy in the vintage cinemas that have become synonymous with this genre. Mills’ latest screenplay follows eccentric radio journalist, Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix), whose sister, Viv (Gaby Hoffmann), has asked him to care for his nine-year-old nephew, Jesse (Woody Norman). His sister is left with no other choice as she must leave to care for her estranged husband.
The siblings have not talked much since their mother passed away due to complications with dementia. Her death and other family difficulties led them to grow apart even though they had a close relationship when they were growing up together. This relational chasm had become wider since Johnny’s work had him travelling the country for interviews, leaving him little time for a social life. Until Viv unexpectedly reaches out to her brother as she needs to help Paul (Scoot McNairy), since he has struggled through mental health issues since moving out.
Initially, this arrangement was meant to be a short-term situation. Until Viv realises that things are much worse for Paul and she must stay to get him hospitalised. Johnny has to do all he can to reconnect with Jesse and learn the responsibilities of being a single parent. Then as things begin to move from days to weeks, the journalist suggests that his nephew join him as he travels around the country. This all seems to be an exciting consideration for everyone until Johnny realises that New York City can be a stressful place to raise a child. As tensions rise and situations get more out of control, the siblings must determine how they will handle all of the challenges that come for the uncle and his nephew.
Within moments of the opening credits, what becomes evident is that this is a film for the cinephile. Those who love the interactive exercise of character development are told in a disjointed manner that reflects the lives of those residing on screen. Mills has written roles that seem profoundly personal and include elements that must come from experiences close to the heart. Jesse and Johnny’s story arc develops at different points which causes their relationship to remain raw and authentic throughout the film. A story that is played against the black and white colour palette shows less of a moral dichotomy than managing to capture the greys of real life.
An onerous element of Mills’ writing is that none of his characters are appealing, even though all three of the central roles do prove to be sympathetic. Phoenix and Norman convincingly commit to their alter-egos despite their lack of overall charm. The younger actor manages to hold his own versus his multi-award-winning counterpart. To such a degree, it seems that they actually build their on-screen and off-screen relationship in the same manner. While Hoffman holds her own at a distance and manages to add a bit of tension and emotion at the appropriate times to keep things moving forward.
C’mon C’mon will only appeal to the devoted film student. The cinematography, writing and relational depth of the story will provide film classes worldwide with talking points for years to come. While mainstream audiences will embrace the latest superhero adventure, this movie gives cinematic elitists something to point to as an alternative, even though they will be in the theatre alone.
REEL DIALOGUE: The value of fathers and father-figures
'Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.' Psalm 127:3-5
We know, we know. Johnny is not the father in this film. Still, he does become a father figure in Jesse’s life. As the uncle becomes aware of the challenges of being a dad, the small things in their relationship cause him to see that his role is less a responsibility and more of a privilege. Even though Jesse is a challenging child to love, he does prove to be a blessing to his uncle and mother.
Father figures and fathers need to look at this opportunity as an honour and do all that can be done to be the men our children need us to be. Some days are more complicated than others, but thankfully the Bible gives us the instruction manual to help mould our children and prayer provides the comfort to watch over them in all situations.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" - Joshua 24:15
