Our Son (2023) User Reviews

Luke Evans is stellar as always

[tomas_12345 · 6/10 · 26 December 2023]

Luke is my favorite actor and I am happy to see that he is now doing more gay movies as he has been in and out of closet earlier in his career.

I was waiting with anticipation for the movie to come out for about 3 months. When it came out and I started watching it, i quickly realized it is not going to be an Oscar-worthy drama and adjusted my expectations.

With these adjusted expectations, I liked the movie. I do not follow the negative reviews (3.9 stars when i'm writing this). I think it is a solid 6 stars movie with an average plot. I have seen much worse movies with much higher rating. For gay people, they usually shoot movies that don't happen to have any plot what-so-ever or are unrealistically over-the-top (Fire Island, Summoning Sylvia, Now Apocalypse) or they are about royals (Red, White and Royal Blue, The Favourite, Young Royals, etc).

This movie is average and I actually liked that aspect. It portrays gay couple going through the motion as any other straight couple and that they have day-to-day problems like anybody else. Usually, when i wanna see a movie like that, I have to go to Asian gay cinema (Thailand or Korean boy love movies/series) and I am really getting tired of reading subtitles all the time. It was refreshing to have a movie like that made in America.

Plus, i was really surprised to see both Kate Burton and Phylicia Rashad. I am a huge fan of both and it was really lovely to see them both in this movie. <3.

As a gay man, I'm not feeling it

[jorgequeiros-pt · 6/10 · 20 December 2023]

If you run out of queer flicks or are a fan of Luke Evans and Billy Porter, sure, give it a try.

I don't know what the point of this film is other than the LGBTI representation. I do appreciate good queer representation, don't get me wrong. But even on that point I have issues that I'll save for later.

The story revolves around a divorce, with a kid in the mix, and despite having two great leading actors doing their best, it's no "Marriage Story" or "Kramer vs. Kramer". There's no big dramatic scenes, there's no deep dive into the characters... It's just lackluster.

On one hand I would expect that two gay men with some level of privilege would know better how to manage their communication. On the other hand, the divorce is understandable. Nicky, the white husband who supports the family, is close to the typical discreet and masculine man, and, like many straight dudes, he barely takes responsibility for his son. Gabriel, the black husband, on the contrary, abandoned his artistic career when their son was born to take care of him. Very traditional heteronormative for a gay couple if you ask me.

This is where the good queer representation becomes questionable to me.

It becomes clear that the reason they both got married was to have a family through children. But as a couple they are not a family. No chemistry, different backgrounds, different ideas how to raise a kid... The movie failed to make me believe in them, or root for them.

That divorce seemed unnecessary.

[sohinistuti · 6/10 · 21 December 2023]

Someone's lazy with the marriage, someone's cheating, the first ever time you're talking about everything, and BOOM...divorce. Wouldn't normally people try to save a marriage where love is present? Kids are present? Is this how it's suppose to work? First gear or fifth!! May be they were having problems for a long time but how shocked Luke's character was after hearing about divorce made me as an audience feel like because of the shock value the divorce came in and certain things aren't supposed to be realistic here. There is serenity in the cinematography, and good acting along with a nice concept that made this experience decent.

VERY Bad Over rated film

[Shokani · 1/10 · 21 December 2023]

I gave this movie a chance and it was not a good decision It was straightforward at more points than not,the acting was predictable and sometimes felt forced,the plot was literally so predictable that none dared to feign suprise

It was a forgetbale film you can forget just an hour after finishing,didn't leave that much of an impact The whole thing was boring and i wish I could get back the time I spent watching the film

Bad directing,trash plot,not convincing at all,wooden acting.

I encourage all to go watch something else rather than waste time on this,it not worth it

Coming from an objective viewpoints and removing Affective fallacy,the negatives on this film far outweigh the positives.

Bad movie.

Very Poor Movie

[potus-56919 · 1/10 · 22 December 2023]

Wow this is really a very very poor movies all round gave thi. It was not a good decision to view this drivel.

Acting was terrible and predictable and very contrived

It was a forgettable film, i should be able to charge for my time back that was wasted on this garbage.

Not engaging in anyway at all, very dull and insipid, please dont waste your times

Poor directing, plot?? Not really, unconvincing from acting and general way film was put together.

I encourage all to go watch something else rather than waste time on this,it not worth it

I really can not give any positive points, except when it finished.

Nice and simple movie on new legal matters

[fabrizio-297-905998 · 7/10 · 25 December 2023]

I wondered, with only 1s and 10s ratings, what was going to be this movie like. This spoiled me the very first part as I was looking for some strong point of views one way or another. In fact, there is nothing controversial, it's just a nice indy movie.

Acting is quite good, characters are played well enough to get involved in the story and even choose a side.

The story was not really predictable, my friend guessed one end, and I guessed another one. So just don't trust too much those too angry or too excited reviews.

About the story, it was interesting, after all those legal battles on gay marriage and surrogacy, how a judge, how families, would behave. An inevitable subject 10 or 15 years later, now in 2023.

Waste of time

[andriiwebb · 1/10 · 7 January 2024]

I found the movie kind of boring and trying too hard to be impressive. Honestly, it felt like a waste of time - the story, cast, and dialogue just didn't click. I wonder who greenlit this project. Maybe Billy Porter should stick to musicals and roles that cater to his strengths. Oh, what a delightfully charming character! Because, you know, nothing says likable quite like being overly self-assured and practically ordering an Oscar for your stellar performance. It's just so relatable, isn't it? 🙄 Well, the one and only Luke Evans managed to be halfway decent in this cinematic masterpiece. Though, let's be real, even he can't single-handedly carry the entire movie on his own.

Save yourself the trouble and watch Dan Levy's "Good Grief" instead.

This film deserves much greater recognition because it is an incredible emotional story.

[elicem-cohen · 10/10 · 27 December 2023]

Some of the comments that have been made here are difficult for me to completely understand. The acting was outstanding, the story progression and emotional leverage throughout the film were excellent, and the brilliant method in which the picture was directed is truly remarkable.

The story touches on a subject that is not typically discussed, namely gay divorce and child custody. Today, we are celebrating the first gay marriage, which took place 23 years ago. This is an important milestone. As a married gay man who is still married and has a son with joint custody, everything that is depicted in this movie is true, and the acting of the actors demonstrates that this is the truth. Billy Porter's acting was stunning.

I did wish a happy ending.

This is a film about personal growth

[db-00459 · 7/10 · 26 February 2024]

This is not a film with a twist, as some reviewers hope for on IMDB. It's a film about personal crossroads, growth and learning direction in life, even when you think you know it all already.

'Our Son' is all about their son and what his and their needs are as both parents have drifted apart.

This film is a slow burner, but it rewards you emotionally and maybe makes you see things as lesser 'It's a gay film' and more of how the couple could have done better for all three of them.

It's well shot, uses spaces and sets well, but does not get bogged down with showing every NY landmark it can.

Watch this one for a casual evening in, or for a Sunday afternoon movie.

I don't get the critics ?

[khamidlawid · 9/10 · 22 December 2023]

This is a light hearted movie about a couple having problems and splitting, trying to get custody of their son. You don't have to see more than that, it is actually good, and no i am not gay, i am a straight male. If you're looking for a plot twist about anything this is the wrong movie. Take it as it is, a beautiful movie about ups and downs. Don't loke for more, there is nothing more. Wanna be critics always asking for a plot twist or more and more, you don't need more, you need to relate to the caracters of the film, gay, straight it doesn't matter, it's about the love of a parent for their child and how to make the most of it for their happinness.

Simple and sincere

[exceladeogun · 7/10 · 23 December 2023]

Our son

In this heartfelt narrative, a gay couple embarks on the challenging journey of divorce, entangled in a poignant custody battle. The storyline, while seemingly uncomplicated, distinguishes itself by embracing an authentic simplicity. Although it may occasionally appear unadorned, this simplicity serves as a genuine reflection of life. While the film doesn't extensively delve into character development, the characters' motivations remain transparent.

The adept performances of Billy Porter and Luke Evans gracefully elevate the film, injecting it with an abundance of emotion and authenticity. Christopher Woodley, in the role of the titular son, delivers a performance that is both revelatory and deeply touching.

Furthermore, the cinematography, direction, and soundtrack collaborate seamlessly to enhance the inherent simplicity of the movie, contributing to its overall impact.

7/10.

Love

[moviesfilmsreviewsinc · 9/10 · 17 April 2024]

Our Son is a poignant drama that resembles the 1979 film Kramer vs Kramer, featuring two divorcing New York-based dads fighting for custody of their son. The film is soapy and middlebrow, with performances from Luke Evans and Billy Porter, and Christopher Woodley as their eight-year-old son, Owen. The script, co-written by Peter Nickowitz and director Bill Oliver, portrays current gay lifestyles, from monogamous married-with-children to older men who never wanted domesticity. The film also features some lesbian characters, including Pam, Nicky's family law attorney. The film is well-received by viewers and offers a subtly shaded group portrait of gay lifestyles. Gabriel, unsure of his feelings for Nicky, must navigate separation, divorce, and custody decisions without causing harm to Owen, a resilient child. The film explores the legal implications of Owen's conception through an egg donor and surrogate, highlighting that both Nicky and Gabriel are considered fathers in Owen's eyes. While the film may feel didactic, its generosity of spirit makes the mildly preachy moments forgivable. The characters are rounded, fallible, and likable, and despite a syrupy score, it's a pleasant and engaging watch. The film's generosity of spirit makes it a pleasant and engaging watch. "Our Son" is a story of dissatisfaction and disconnection between a couple, Nicky and Gabriel, who have been committed to their marriage for nearly a decade. Gabriel's revelation forces both parties to reassess their relationship and seek divorce. The resulting divorce proceedings escalate into a heated standoff, with the main issue being custody of Owen. Nicky, who can provide for Owen but has a demanding job, decides to stay with him, while Gabriel, who has no job, decides to stay with him. The film frames the custody battle as an opportunity for Nicky and Gabriel to be honest about their desires as fathers and gay men, addressing gendered expectations and the growing family-focused LGBTQ community. These thorny topics are reflected in the film's most affecting discussions, which are often didactic due to the characters' varying perspectives on the matter. The film's portrayal of these thorny topics is a testament to the complexity of the LGBTQ community.

I despise cruel, hateful individuals.. with an almighty passion

[qpvfygydzc · 8/10 · 31 December 2023]

I get it I totally get it. This movie is stupendous, entertainment, and emotional roller coaster ride with highs and lows. Billy Porter and Luke Evans shine, and should be considered for Academy Awards.... the young child who played their child even more so... complicated movie with a complicated theme with raw emotions, running rapid and burning through the screen... a little melodramatic... But like our relationships are good or bad... It turns out that Love is much stronger than pride and both individuals involved. Learn to love this little boy, and put their own needs below his.... Watch the movie with an open heart

And an open soul..

Our Son Is Yours

[breerosen-73836 · 10/10 · 9 May 2024]

Touching and intimate and altogether moving. A must see as there just aren't enough films like this. Porter's emotional performance and Evans tremendous turn are just a few highlights here. There's an honesty to the writing and a sure-handed confidence with direction that is truly winning. It's no wonder the film found its premiere at Tribeca last year and has gone on to win multiple awards. This is a film about family that will make you laugh, cry, think, and be grateful that you didn't scroll past it. It's a night in, a welcome warm hug, and that rare indie gem that is thankfully unforgettable.

Where have you been all along its so good

[rahlhjawanbkht · 10/10 · 21 December 2023]

Not only the story is fleshed out i love that they wanted to go with a something unique like this its so good i cant tell you i heard and seen a lot of people have said its a really good movie i watched it and loved it so i reccomend you guys to see it plus the acting in here is a massive part of what i love with luke evans and billy porter making those scenes more believble and human these 2 together make everything in this movie and overall i like this movie reccomend you to watch it its really good and i see less movies like this nowadays im really happy to see more diverse stories like this !?!!

Our Son is Fantastic

[zoelynnwollman-70740 · 10/10 · 12 December 2023]

"Our Son" is a poignant masterpiece that skillfully navigates the complexities of a familiar storyline with heartfelt sincerity and a touch of humor. It's a testament to the human experience, capturing the essence of raw emotions and the tumultuous effects of divorce on a child. Billy Porter and Luke Evans deliver performances that transcend excellence, infusing their roles with depth and authenticity that tug at the heartstrings.

Christopher Woodley's direction is nothing short of brilliant, delicately weaving together a narrative that resonates on a profound level. The film's ability to evoke tears multiple times speaks volumes about its emotional impact. Amidst the stellar performances, John Wollman's portrayal of Principal Howard stands out as a beacon of calmness and light, adding a nuanced layer to the story.

What sets "Our Son" apart is its ability to humanize the struggles within a broken family dynamic, painting a realistic yet hopeful picture of resilience and growth. The characters feel genuine, relatable, and their journeys are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. The film doesn't shy away from the complexities of divorce but rather embraces them, offering a glimpse into the often unseen facets of such experiences.

The synergy between the cast and the director's vision creates a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Every scene is meticulously crafted, drawing the audience into a rollercoaster of emotions that ultimately leaves a lasting impression. "Our Son" is more than a film; it's a mirror reflecting the intricacies of human relationships and the power of hope amidst adversity. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking a genuine, touching, and brilliantly executed narrative that stays etched in the heart and mind.

OUR SON (2023): A MASTERPIECE OF EMOTIONAL DEPTH

[EleanorBennett · 10/10 · 12 December 2023]

"Our Son" (2023) is a hidden gem that beautifully captures the essence of simplicity and heartfelt storytelling. In an era where grandeur often overshadows genuine emotion, this film stands out for its unassuming yet powerful narrative.

What makes "Our Son" remarkable is its ability to convey profound emotions through a seemingly simple storyline. It doesn't rely on extravagant plots or flashy effects; instead, it delves into the intricacies of human relationships with a raw and sincere approach. The simplicity in its storytelling is its strength, allowing the emotions to take center stage without any distractions.

Billy Porter and Luke Evans deliver performances that are a testament to their craft. Their portrayal of characters navigating the challenges of divorce is authentic and deeply moving. The chemistry between them feels genuine, evoking empathy and understanding from the audience.

Christopher Woodley, who plays the "son", deserves accolades for his ability to infuse every frame with heartfelt sincerity.

Despite its simplicity, "Our Son" touches upon complex themes such as resilience, love, and the impact of family dynamics on a child. It's a reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones that speak directly to the human heart without excessive embellishments.

The film's simplicity doesn't diminish its impact; instead, it amplifies the emotional connection viewers feel. Every scene is a testament to the power of genuine storytelling, leaving a lasting impression that transcends the confines of the screen.

"Our Son" stands tall as a testament to the beauty of simplicity in storytelling. It proves that a heartfelt narrative, delivered with sincerity and depth, can resonate far more profoundly than the most elaborate of plots. For those seeking a genuine, touching cinematic experience that speaks directly to the soul, "Our Son" is an absolute must-watch.