It Runs in the Family
It Runs in the Family

It Runs in the Family

2003Movie109 minEnglish

This is the story of a dysfunctional New York family, and their attempts to reconcile

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Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes27%
Metacritic47/100
Google Users55%
Director: Bob ClarkGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A dysfunctional New York family gathers for Thanksgiving, forcing them to confront their complicated relationships. The patriarch, a celebrated but domineering filmmaker, clashes with his more laid-back screenwriter son, while his granddaughter navigates her own burgeoning adulthood. Tensions simmer and secrets emerge as they are trapped together in a Hamptons mansion.

Critical Reception

It Runs in the Family received a mixed to negative reception from critics, who often found the film's humor and dramatic elements to be uneven. While some appreciated the performances, particularly from the Douglas family, many felt the script was formulaic and failed to live up to the potential of its cast.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film struggles to balance its comedic aspirations with its dramatic undertones, resulting in an often jarring viewing experience.
  • While the star power of the Douglas family is undeniable, their performances are not enough to overcome a predictable and somewhat uninspired script.
  • The portrayal of family dynamics feels contrived and lacks genuine emotional depth for many viewers.

Google audience: Audience reviews for 'It Runs in the Family' are divided, with some appreciating the generational performances and humorous moments. However, a significant portion of viewers found the plot predictable and the family conflicts to be overly dramatic or unconvincing, leading to a lukewarm reception.

Fun Fact

This film is notable for being one of the last major film appearances for legendary actor Kirk Douglas, who starred alongside his son Michael Douglas and grandson Cameron Douglas (though Cameron's role was cut from the final film).

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