An observational, 160-minute-long family drama-cum-screwball comedy took critics by surprise at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

Asghar Farhadi reminds us of how, ultimately, there are countless external factors that determine and alter our lives that we have no control over.

The Family Fang rises above standard family dysfunction fare and is fearless about pursuing some of its darker themes to the fullest.

Cinematographer Francesco di Giacomo never lets an amazing shot go to waste, whether in sumptuous interiors or starkly beautiful landscapes. He is a master of chiaroscuro, rich texture, and, above all, framing.

The film takes measure of what kindness and love for our fellow human beings can do in life, even where brassy, loudmouth drag queens are concerned.

Susan Sarandon plays a recently widowed New York City woman who has relocated to sunny Los Angeles to live near her daughter and imposes her unasked-for advice on every single person she encounters.

Depicting a mental disability on film is always tricky, but actress Moran Rosenblatt does a fine job balancing her character’s inherent sweetness with an underlying sense of frustration.

An engaging and steady-paced drama, driven by the mystery of a family grudge and by its well-drawn characters.

The cinematography, the subtly paced storytelling, and the doleful music score combine to form an artistic expression akin to free verse poetry.