In the realm of streaming romantic comedies, A Family Affair emerges as a surprisingly heartwarming story led by a stellar cast. While Nicole Kidman portrays Brooke Harwood, a successful author navigating life after loss, and Zac Efron shines as the initially oblivious yet charming actor Chris Cole, the movie’s true heart lies with Zara Ford, Brooke’s daughter, played by the talented Joey King.
Initially, the premise might seem to hinge on the unconventional romance between Brooke and Chris, especially given their age gap – playfully acknowledged in the film, despite Kidman being 21 years Efron’s senior in reality. Their accidental meeting and subsequent connection set the stage for comedic and potentially dramatic scenarios. However, A Family Affair cleverly shifts its focus, becoming less about this budding relationship and more about Zara’s journey.
Zara’s character arc is the emotional anchor of the film. Working as Chris Cole’s assistant, she witnesses his immature and demanding behavior firsthand. Her internal conflict drives the narrative as she grapples with her mother’s choices and her own desire to protect her. King’s performance beautifully captures Zara’s struggle, adding depth and authenticity to what could have been a predictable storyline. The film subtly explores themes of generational differences and respecting parental decisions, all through Zara’s evolving perspective.
Adding another layer of warmth and wisdom is Kathy Bates as Leila Ford, the grandmother. Her special bond with Zara and her grounded advice act as a crucial element in Zara’s character development. Bates delivers a reliably strong performance, enriching the family dynamics and providing moments of genuine emotional resonance.
Ultimately, A Family Affair on streaming platforms proves to be a delightful watch, exceeding initial expectations. While the star power of Kidman and Efron draws attention, it’s the focus on Zara’s story and the strong performances, particularly from Joey King and Kathy Bates, that make this movie a genuinely engaging and heartwarming family affair.
