'IN THE FAMILY'/Austin Film Society

Last night AFS brought us a remarkable film written and directed by Patrick Wang ( who also plays the main character).  Originally from Texas, now a New Yorker, he writes a film set in Tennessee.  A refreshing film about family (in this case two men and  a 6 y.o. boy), loss, friendship, and the importance of "talking about things."  Joey Williams, the  surviving Dad, is a most unusual and refreshing character.  He meets his challenges naturally by thinking, coming up with alternative solutions and most importantly "listening."  Various women and ultimately a retired aging lawyer help him in his fight to regain custody of his son.  He is given an opportunity to "talk about things" and in a beautiful monologue he is encouraged to tell all of the people at a deposition of this custody case what he is willing to give up to get what he wants. (Not really a custody case because he never adopted Chip). This monologue is just beautiful and it is a pleasure to meet Joey Williams.  At the Q&A Mr. Wang mentioned that this film is very popular with teenage girls.  Of course!  Who wouldn't want to meet a Joey Williams when you're surrounded by teenage boys?  You can still see this film tonight at the Marchesa Hall.