Indeed, the characters are astonishingly self-obsessed, failing to connect or even complete a thought when they try to communicate. This creates a complexity that the fine actors mine for all kinds of pungent details. At the centre, Burstyn is as tremendous as ever, playing this fascinating woman with layers of unfathomable depth. With the story seen through David's eyes, McGregor finds terrific layers as he tries to juggle the responsibilities of being a son, brother, husband and father.

Previously unspoken things swell up in various scenes, highlighting textures that emerge between family members who care about but rarely truly understand each other. The script cleverly plays with these things that people don't say, although it's frustrating to watch people talk in circles, neither asking questions nor listening to answers. All of this is somewhat enigmatic and stagey, especially as the action drifts over the top, but it's packed with clever touches that provoke thought.

themes, language, violence

1.Jul.24

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