A Family Affair

Short Take: The phrase comes from the film industry, originally, and it means a short bit of recording or “something that only takes a short time,” especially if a longer version may be done later.

Short Take review: A short review of a film with potential discussion points

⭐️ ⭐️ (out of 5)

Summary: Chris Cole (Zac Efron) is one of Hollywood's biggest names, and his ego manages to get the better of him as he causes his personal assistant, Zara (Joey King), to quit. She can no longer work for the self-absorbed actor despite her desire to make her own name in the film industry. Quickly, Chris realises he has made a mistake, underappreciated Zara’s work, and goes to her home to make amends. Yet, instead of his personal assistant, the movie star meets her mother, Brooke (Nicole Kidman), and the pair build an unexpected relationship that leads to an affair. A romantic connection complicates Zara's family and work atmosphere, and she needs to determine how to respond to this collision of her two worlds.

Review: The Paperboy (2012) was the first time that Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron were at different times of their careers. One was an Academy Award winner, and the other attempted to break free from his High School Musical legacy. They proved they had chemistry even though the film failed to capture the imaginations of audiences. Over the past twelve years, they both have had highs and lows in their work, but they must have been thrown a lot of money to star in this predictable Netflix romantic comedy. These beautiful people look great together, but nothing is endearing about this mixture of romance and the coming-of-age storyline that feels forced from the opening to the closing credits. Kidman, Efron and King are all talented and deserve something better to showcase their talents, which is ironic since the film includes a storyline with a poorly written script. Kathy Bates (The Miracle Club) looks like she is having fun and adds some of the film's best moments.

A Family Affair is a run-of-the-mill rom-com gifted with a talented cast whose star power will struggle to get audiences to fall in love with this film.

Reel Dialogue: How do you make good decisions?

A Family Affair is a lesson in making poor decisions. Wisdom can be gained through the latest motivational speaker, great philosophers of the past, or someone who personifies good personal judgement. The only problem with these sources is that even though they may be brilliant in one area, they may still need to make the best choices.

That brings us back to the niggling issue of seeking wisdom. Can it be found in this life?

The first step is finding the source of all wisdom and who holds these insights. The Bible says that the beginning of knowledge begins in the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7), which means the first place to go for insights is to God, who gives out his wisdom freely to all who seek after him and listen.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5

This revelation is a groundbreaking concept; all knowledge and wisdom can be found in God in the Bible. It is there for the taking, but there is a catch. Belief.

To access this infinite pool of enlightenment and salvation, a person has to believe in the source. To gain the universe's wisdom, you must make your first 'good choice.' Believe in the God of the Bible.

If you would enjoy talking about the themes of the film, contact our team at Third Space. We can start the conversation and connect you with those who can help you find the answer.