“Adult Children,” directed by Rich Newey, is a new coming-of-age dramedy that stars Betsy Brandt, Aya Cash, Ella Rubin, Thomas Sadoski, and Mimi Rogers.
The synopsis is: When a crisis provides Morgan (Ella Rubin of “Anora”) the rare opportunity to spend time with her significantly older half-siblings, she hopes they’ll be able to shed some light on what it means to be an adult, only to discover that they’re all faking it.
There is a warmth, honesty and rawness to this movie. It’s a moving independent film about a teenage girl and her three older adult siblings (played by Betsy Brandt, Thomas Sadoski of “The Newsroom”, and Aya Cash of “The Boys”), who are all under one roof for the first time.
As a cast, everybody has great chemistry together, and they all bring something distinct to the story.
Watching these siblings navigate their complex yet affecting relationships allows for more resonance. Their acting at times is playful, melancholic, and witty, all in one.
Ella Rubin is a revelation as Morgan, while Thomas Sadoski is impressive as Josh, the brother who recently relapsed with substance use/abuse. Sadoski layers the different emotions well, as his sisters are caring for him while their Mom (portrayed by Mimi Rogers) is overseas.
Betsy Brandt of “Breaking Bad” is appealing as the clandestine oldest daughter Lisa, and without giving too much away, Aya Cash will certainly leave her audience breathless in one of her pivotal scenes, especially the male viewers watching.
Rich Newey directed from a captivating screenplay by Annika Marks, where she allowed the ensemble of actors to play in a sandbox, in the best way possible.
The Verdict
Overall, “Adult Children” is a compelling film from start to finish. It will certainly spark conversations among viewers as everybody in the cast is noteworthy.
Strong performances led by Ella Rubin gives this indie movie its beating heart. Ella is convincing as the youngest sibling, and she is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable.
It is the feel-good escapism that we all need; moreover, it makes us think about how to navigate the trajectories of our own lives.
The acting performances all around are memorable, and it makes you wish that there is a sequel to this project. It garners four out of five stars. Well done.
