Relative

Brilliant actors play characters so intriguing, they all deserve movies of their own.

In setup as well as execution, the movie often plays like a less polished, more fragmented attempt to make something like an American version of a film by British dramatist Mike Leigh.

While some instances feel more organic than others, none are completely out of place conceptually and all end up providing another springboard towards subdued yet entertaining levity by way of communion or juxtaposition.

A heartwarming and spectacularly acted visit with a loving but dysfunctional Chicago family, with some of the best ensemble performances you'll see. This is an indie gem not to be missed.

An engaging and observant dysfunctional family drama.

One of 2022's most rewarding indie cinema efforts.

The filmmaker creates characters that admittedly have annoying eccentricities but are still likable enough that you want to spend time with them as a viewer.

The casual conversations that started "Relative" to reveal little bits of individual and family history turn serious and soul-baring addressing the disintegration of family.

At a glance, it’s easy to lump in Relative with the dozens (hundreds? thousands?) of weekend-reunion dramas. However, Smith’s allergy to the subgenre’s conventions elevates his movie in deceptively profound ways.

It’s an intimate portrayal of three generations of family, full of laughter, grievances, rituals, and numerous bottles of wine. And any relation to your clan or mine is purely intentional.