Raymond & Ray

2.5 out of 5 stars

When someone loses a loved one, regardless of how well one knows them, it does cause emotions and memories to rush back into the lives of those left behind. For half-brothers Raymond (Ewan McGregor) and Ray (Ethan Hawke), the distant memories of their father only inflict pain on them as adults. Yet, when the man dies, the brothers decide to honour his request to be at his funeral.

As they arrive in the small town where they grew up, the realities of the man they left behind after leaving home begin to rush back into their lives. Harris (played in dream sequences by Tom Bower) had been an abusive father to his sons. Still, he had gone on to live a rewarding and unconventional life. He had explored numerous faiths, worked multiple jobs, and lived with various women who had given him even more children. Raymond and Ray attempt to make things right in their hearts as these revelations slowly come to light. Can they forgive the man who caused them so much pain and then expected them to dig his own grave?

For those who chose this quirky dramatic comedy from writer/director Rodrigo García, be prepared for a bizarre journey into the realm of grief and family. Each turn within this story exposes the randomness of real life and reminds the viewer that real life often provides the most entertaining moments. His writing is discombobulating and jarring, which does not make this an easy film to watch. The only saving grace of this familial mess is found in the performances of its leading actors. Hawke and McGregor deliver the light and shade of brotherhood and life as they commit to this brotherly relationship with effective form.

Unlike Death at a Funeral which has more comedy or Four Weddings and a Funeral which manages to capture the drama along with the humour, Raymond and Ray never finds its footing in either realm. Yet, one element of this film that provides a wealth of consideration is exploring the spiritual side of life. Garcia’s script merely scratches at this itch without relieving those trying to find answers to these existential queries. Something that makes this film even more frustrating to watch, but may challenge some within the audience to look for answers.

Nothing says that someone needs to wait until they are on their deathbed before exploring the questions of the eternal. This journey may have many asking if all religions are the same. All world religions would say, no. Yet, how do you know?

Check out God in 60 Seconds from Sam Chan on this subject, then reach out to the Third Space team to find the answers to the bigger questions you need.

Reach out to Third Space here