Haroula Rose’s latest film, “All Happy Families,” opens with Tolstoy’s famous line: “All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” This sets the stage for a family dramedy that explores the intricate and often messy dynamics within the Landry family. Following up on her acclaimed “Once Upon a River” (2020), Rose once again demonstrates her talent for crafting authentic stories and guiding exceptional performances from her cast. “All Happy Families” promises to be a film that resonates deeply, prompting viewers to reflect on their own family relationships. Ahead of its screening at the Music Box Theatre on October 7, 2024, let’s delve into the talented ensemble that brings this compelling family story to life.
At the heart of “All Happy Families” is the Landry family, portrayed by a cast of seasoned and rising stars. The film centers around Graham Landry, a man in his forties living in Chicago, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of his famous brother, Will, and subsequently, their parents, Sue and Roy. This unexpected family reunion forces long-simmering tensions to the surface, leading to both collapse and the potential for renewal.
Josh Radnor takes on the role of Graham Landry, the somewhat grounded and relatable center of the family turmoil. Radnor, known for his versatility and previous roles that haven’t quite tapped into this character type, embraces Graham’s complexities. Director Haroula Rose, a long-time friend of Radnor’s, recognized his potential for this role, stating, “He is so versatile, and hasn’t really played this kind of character before. So it was really fun to see him access this part of himself and see him have fun doing it.”
Josh Radnor in All Happy Families as Graham Landry, standing with Becky Ann Baker as Sue Landry.
The dynamic is further complicated by the arrival of Will Landry, Graham’s celebrity brother, played by Rob Huebel. Huebel, praised for his ability to portray characters with both charm and questionable traits, was Rose’s first choice for Will. She notes, “I have always been a fan of Rob Huebel and the way he can make someone seem both questionable and charming in this way, which made him the perfect person to play this guy.” Huebel’s portrayal of Will adds a layer of celebrity and external pressure to the already fraught family interactions.
Rob Huebel and Josh Radnor portraying brothers Will and Graham Landry, sitting on a couch in All Happy Families.
Becky Ann Baker and John Ashton embody the roles of the parents, Sue and Roy Landry, respectively. Baker, particularly, has garnered immense praise for her performance as Sue. Rose enthusiastically states, “Anytime I tell people that she is in this, they all freak out. There just is not a false note in her performance, and she’s incredible.” Baker’s ability to bring depth and authenticity to Sue is crucial to portraying the matriarch’s role in the family’s unfolding drama. John Ashton, who previously worked with Rose on “Once Upon a River,” was a natural fit for Roy, the father figure.
Becky Ann Baker, John Ashton, Josh Radnor, and Rob Huebel as the Landry family, Sue, Roy, Graham, and Will, in a boat in All Happy Families.
Adding another dimension to Graham’s life is Dana, his love interest, played by Chicago-based actress Chandra Russell. Russell, known for her role in “South Side,” brings a grounded and authentic presence to Dana. Rose highlights Russell’s performance, “Chandra provides a sense of someone who is really sensitive, but also tough and authentic… She was just a little bit more direct, like ‘I don’t have time, I’m busy, but I want to spend time with you.’ I like that she has clear boundaries.” Dana’s character offers a contrasting perspective and a potential path forward for Graham.
Chandra Russell as Dana in All Happy Families, standing at a doorway.
Beyond the core family, “All Happy Families” also features a strong supporting cast, including Ivy O’Brien as Evie, Antoine McKay, and David Pasquesi. O’Brien’s portrayal of Evie, in particular, adds a layer of contemporary family dynamics to the narrative, exploring themes of gender identity and acceptance.
Ivy O’Brien and Becky Ann Baker as Evie and Sue Landry, sitting at a kitchen table in All Happy Families.
Rose assembled this cast not for financial incentives, but because they were drawn to the script and the collaborative spirit of the project. This passion and commitment from the “All Happy Families” cast is palpable in their performances, promising a film that is both deeply moving and highly relatable. As audiences prepare to see “All Happy Families,” the strength of its cast stands as a significant draw, promising a nuanced and powerful exploration of family life.
