Nicole Kidman embodies successful author Brooke Harwood in the movie A Family Affair, residing in an opulent LA home. Eleven years after her husband’s passing, she lives a tranquil life with her 24-year-old daughter, who has returned home to jumpstart her career in movie or TV production.
Her daughter, Zara Ford, portrayed by Joey King, works as an assistant to Chris Cole, a demanding and immature actor played by Zac Efron. In a chance encounter, Chris meets Brooke, unaware of her identity. He becomes instantly captivated, despite their significant age difference, mentioned later as 16 years (a playful nod to the real-life 21-year age gap between Kidman and Efron).
Joey King delivers a standout performance as Zara. While Kidman and Efron are the headlining stars with their burgeoning romance taking center stage, the film subtly shifts its focus to Zara’s perspective. Familiar with Chris’s character, Zara is determined to dissuade her mother from pursuing a relationship with him. Zara’s character development revolves around learning to respect her mother’s autonomy and choices.
Ultimately, A Family Affair movie is more deeply rooted in Zara’s journey than initially perceived.
Adding depth to the narrative is veteran actress Kathy Bates as Leila Ford, the grandmother. Her close bond with Zara and wise counsel are pivotal in guiding Zara to confront reality and understand the complexities of her mother’s life.
Streaming at home, A Family Affair proved to be a more compelling and enjoyable film than initially anticipated, offering a nuanced look at family dynamics through a surprising romantic comedy lens.
