Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Well-acted drama has strong prejudice and hateful language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
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Where to Watch
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Falling
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
FALLING tells the story of Willis (Lance Henriksen), a conservative, elderly man who is exhibiting symptoms of dementia, and so is taken in by his gay son, John (Viggo Mortensen), in Los Angeles. The pair clash constantly, as Willis' outdated outlook on life becomes increasingly more challenging for their already damaged relationship.
Is It Any Good?
A noteworthy directorial debut from Mortensen, the film takes an interesting exploration into the disparity of political thinking in America through a symbolic father-son conflict. Falling is also a tale of forgiveness, and takes a fascinating look into what we as people are able to make peace with, for the sake of our family. Mortensen is terrific in the supporting lead role, taking a very understated approach, as rather than be a film full of impassioned conflict, his character very much absorbs the disdain from his father, like a boxer soaking up punches. This creates a platform for Henriksen to shine and he delivers emphatically.
The story is well structured, cutting between flashbacks (featuring Sverrir Gudnason as a young Willis) and the present day. Unfortunately the narrative does get tired as it progresses. It begins to feel repetitive, even tedious at times, as we go round in circles, just watching on as this elderly man is incessantly horrible to his family. The result is, that despite two fantastic performances, Falling is a family drama that proves to be a hard watch.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about some of the hateful language used in Falling. How did some of what Willis said make you feel? Did you think his illness excused his behavior? How did his family deal with his prejudice and horrible comments?
How did the movie portray sex? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
How are drinking and smoking depicted? Are they glamorized? Are there consequences? Why does that matter?
The movie focuses on the difference in politics among a family. How do you deal with people who have different views to you? Discuss what role communication plays in such situations.
Willis seems to be suffering from dementia. What is dementia? Have you ever dealt with dementia in real life? How does the movie compare?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 5, 2021
- On DVD or streaming : February 5, 2021
- Cast : Viggo Mortensen , Lance Henriksen , Sverrir Gudnason
- Director : Viggo Mortensen
- Studio : Quiver Distribution
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Compassion
- Run time : 112 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language throughout including offensive slurs, crude sexual references, brief sexuality and nudity
- Last updated : February 3, 2021
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