‘Ezra’ explores the boundaries a father pushes for the love of his autistic son

‘Ezra’ explores the boundaries a father pushes for the love of his autistic son
Image: Source: Kismet

Aussie star Rose Byrne partners up with American actor Bobby Cannavale in Ezra, a dramedy which highlights the crucial issues parents of children suffering from autism must face.

Ezra is a young autistic child who is expelled from school for violent behaviour. He’s deemed a threat to himself and other children around him.

When he allegedly tries to harm himself by stepping in front of a moving vehicle, the system decides that he must be medicated and enrolled in a special needs school.

Max, the child’s father (Bobby Cannavale) retorts, “He’s not dangerous, he’s a challenge!” But his ex-wife Jenna (Rose Byrne) agrees that something needs to be done about their son, “He must learn to give us a hug without screaming!”

Ezra becomes the ward of the state, and there’s a restraining order against Max stating that he cannot see his son for 3 months after he had a physical altercation with a doctor.

Max intervenes and kidnaps his son taking him on a road trip, ultimately followed by law enforcers who believe he’s putting his son’s life in danger.

If a child is the ward of the state, should the parents still have a say in what’s best for their child?  Is fighting for what you believe in the right thing to do even if it’s deemed unlawful? And more importantly should a concerned father take legal matters involving his son into his own hands?

This is a powerful movie which may divide audiences. Astute performances from pivotal actors Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale are supported by Robert De Niro who portrays Ezra’s loving grandfather and Whoopi Goldberg as the talent agent. Newcomer 15-year-old William A. Fitzgerald who actually suffers from autism is a natural in the titular role of Ezra, where seemingly minimal acting was required.

There are many comedic elements which detract momentarily from the major theme that resonates profusely throughout – the fragility of the mental state.

Max is suffering mental exhaustion as his mind is on overdrive with worry for his son whom he loves dearly, “Ezra keeps my feet on the ground” he states.  Max comes to the realization that he’s acting impulsively when he admits to himself, “What am I doing!”

There are several stand-up comedy routines performed by Cannavale that highlight his prowess as a comedian. The script requires him to traverse from drama to comedy and back again which he does effortlessly.

This father/son relationship film may have limited appeal but unquestionably deserves much accolade. There will be laughter and tears and discerning audiences who enjoy good human interest stories won’t be disappointed.

★★★½
In Cinemas August 1

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