Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
Think Noah Baumbach’s The Royal Tenenbaums but even more next-level. The Meyerowitz Stores (New and Selected) is a Family Drama focused on three children, their relationship with each other and their father. Something in this Film. While feeling very much familiar like the rest of Baumbach’s work, this arguably is his greatest and most ambitious project to date. Netflix certainly is stamping itself a new player in the Awards Season race and The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) should be front and center. It is one the best Movies of 2017 thus far, no doubt.
Harold (Dustin Hoffman) is an undiscovered New York artist living with his second wife Maureen (Emma Thompson). His children from his previous marriage, Danny (Adam Sandler) and Jean (Elizabeth Marvel), want him to join a collaborative art show at thr college where he taught. Danny and Jean never leave their father’s side despite going through several issues with him growing up. Matthew (Ben Stiller) is the son that Harold is most proud of despite him living in L.A. and not having as deep an appreciation for his father as his step-siblings. While all the stories focus around Harold and his relationship with his children, there is also an unspoken sibling rivalry dynamic throughout the Film. The way that the Film interweaves the overarching plotline with the siblings’ competing need for attention and acceptance from their father works harmoniously together as something many of us can relate to.
In addition to a seamless flow, the performances in The Meyerowitz Stories are incredible. Adam Sandler proves once again that he is more than a ‘fart, frat boy’ comic and can lend himself to powerful, more weighty roles. This is exemplified in the Movie especially in his scenes with Dustin Hoffman, so emotionally-driven and wonderfully-acted they could be their own Film. Dustin Hoffman gives one of the best performances of his celebrated career here. Emma Thompson stirs the pot between her son Matthew, Danny and Jean and their say in family matters, doing brilliantly driving a wedge between these characters. Elizabeth Marvel who is rather reserved through much of the Film, explodes when it counts, adding a fascinating dynamic to the Film. Lastly, Ben Stiller who plays Matthew, the most well-to-do sibling, has the most to gain from his father. He plays the favourite so perfectly it feels like he borrowed from real life experience. The entire Ensemble in The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) are a flawless pairing.
This year has certainly had its hits and misses, however nothing can hold a candle the delightfully-pleasant surprise that is The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected).
Netflix Canada stream THE MEYEROWITZ STORIES (NEW AND SELECTED) Friday, October 13, 2017.
For advertising opportunites please contact mrwill@mrwillwong.com