It Runs in the Family

The type of humor that brings tears to your eyes instead of the silliness that usually passes for comedy these days. I seriously enjoyed watching Michael and Kirk Douglas working together, found the material touching and poignant, and found myself caring deeply about the characters. I don't know about you, but that works for me.

I was not particularly anxious to see this film but it was a rainy Saturday (the day after it opened in my area) so I dragged my movie-hating husband to see It Runs In The Family not really knowing what to expect.

I had seen Michael Douglas on several tv talk shows and each time he mentioned his nervousness over his son's acting--well he didn't need to worry - Cameron carried the movie!!! He's cute as a button and has charm oozing out of his pores.

I must admit the movie was at times depressing (the treatment of the elderly uncle). I also had a difficult time viewing Kirk Douglas on the screen. The first Mrs, Kirk Douglas (Michael's real-life mother Diana) was a delight. The Culkin boy was wonderful also.

Michael Douglas was his usual terrific self. In recent pictures, he appeared to be ageing, but in this movie he looked quite youthful. He was supposed to be in his late 40's and definitely pulled it off.

I would not highly recommend this film--I was never bored but I was a little depressed.

All the actors did good work and were great to watch. The oldest Douglas did a real good job and there were moments that he sounded like he did in his youth. The Passover Seder brought back a lot of family memories for me. The relationships were very real and touching and I felt like I knew these people or was related to them. This movie was fun and moving and I really liked it and I think everyone enjoys this even if they are not Jewish.

It's a light-hearted family comedy. The chemistry between the casts is wunderful, especially that of Kirk and Diana Douglas. The husband-and-wife conversations in the film feel warm and real, thanks to Jesse Wigutow's good script. The Douglas family really pulled it off without making it a vanity.

Although I agree with other ratings on IMDB, I feel that this movie is underrated here.

(6.5/10)

This is a well done movie about family life. It could be compared to The Royal Tannenbaums in genre. I personally feel it is better done, really a terrific movie. For a first time actor, Cameron Douglas did very well. Not surprising when you see how well the other actual family members do in their chosen field! It is about the normal dysfunctual family and then some. There is laughter, tears and it makes you think. I recommend it highly and feel sorry for those who just did not get the movie. It only made 8 million I heard. Pitty those who do no get to see it!