Ezra

I really enjoyed "Ezra" I haven't seen such a well-made film in quite a while. Despite some stereotyping (e.g., the father played by Bobby Cannavale who wants his son mainstreamed and no medications) it covers the situation of having an autistic child quite realistically. You are always on, never off. Of course, there had to be a conflict with the ex-wife who was at least willing to try other options (another stereotype) and that was well-played by Rose Byrne. The trip taken by all of them was a beautiful journey. I couldn't help thinking they were exactly where they needed to be at all junctures. Another thought: "You aren't autistic, you're just a weird person." A truer statement has rarely been made!

If this film isn't nominated for an Oscar I will be shocked. Nevermind the all-star cast, the story line is simply captivating. The tension builds throughout, but we're provided with more than enough comedic relief to keep this dramatic masterpiece on an even keel. The subjects of autism and child abuse are treated with the respect they deserve thanks to brilliant acting by Cannavale, DeNiro and Byrne. William Fitzgerald is completely convincing as Ezra - and this is particularly remarkable given this is his first feature film. This flick also contains some of my favorite movie themes - roadtrip, standup comedy, NYC (or at least Hoboken NJ), mental health.

I saw Ezra, starring Bobby Cannavale-Spy, Paul Blart: Mall Cop; Rose Byrne-the Insidious movies, Spy; Robert De Niro-Killers of the Flower Moon, Machete and introducing William A. Fitzgerald-this is his first movie. This is a heart warming film about families with tough decisions to make and how they handle them. Bobby & Rose are the parents of William, an autistic boy. Bobby and Rose are separated-going through a divorce-with Rose having custody and Bobby seeing William as much as he can, because Bobby is a stand up comic. Bobby takes William with him to the comedy clubs as his good luck charm. Robert is Bobby's father and Bobby lives with him for financial reasons. Bobby and Rose usually agree on how they are raising William, except for his schooling; Bobby wants William to attend regular schools and Rose wants him to go to special needs schools for children with difficulties. When Bobby gets a chance to appear on The Jimmy Kimmel Show-only catch is that he must drive because they wouldn't furnish a plane ticket-he takes William with him on a road trip where they both have some life experiences. There are several cameos. I remember seeing Tony Goldwyn-who also directs the movie-Rainn Wilson, Vera Farmiga and Whoopi Goldberg. It's rated R for language, drug use and sexual situations-no nudity-and has a running time of 1 hour & 40 minutes. It's a good one to stream.