Dustin Guy Defa’s The Adults delves into the complexities of sibling relationships. The film follows the emotional journey of three siblings, played by Michael Cera, Hannah Gross, and Sophia Lillis, as they reunite after their mother’s passing. While the reunion presents an opportunity for reconnection and healing, it also highlights the painful distance that has grown between them over time.
Eric (Cera) returns to town to see his friend’s baby, but he also takes the chance to visit his estranged sisters, Maggie (Lillis) and Rachel (Gross). As children, they dreamed of becoming a family music act, but now they couldn’t be more different. Eric has a gambling addiction, Maggie dropped out of college, and Rachel is bitter after a breakup. Their relationship is awkward, with Eric and Rachel exchanging sarcastic remarks while Maggie tries to bring some joy to their brief time together by reminiscing about their childhood.
As the story unfolds, Eric loses money in a poker game and decides to stay longer to try and win it back. He visits Maggie and learns about her anxiety, while Rachel wonders why he’s still there. The film explores the subtle, often quiet aspects of grief and suffering, allowing the characters’ traumas to gradually unfold.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its portrayal of how the siblings evolve as individuals due to their circumstances. What was once a childhood bond has become an adult relationship fraught with unspoken pain. However, the film also provides glimmers of shared memories and mutual understanding, hinting at the possibility of reconciliation.
In a world of grand narratives and larger-than-life characters, The Adults offers a refreshing departure. It’s a quiet yet powerful exploration of human emotions that encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationships and the impact of trauma. The film is a testament to the transformative power of cinema and the importance of authentic, empathetic storytelling.
Title: The Adults
Festival: Tribeca (Spotlight Narrative)
Distributor: LD Entertainment
Director-screenwriter: Dustin Guy Defa
Cast: Michael Cera, Hannah Gross, Sophia Lillis
Running time: 1 hr 31 min