In Netflix’s newest romantic comedy offering, Zara Ford (Joey King) works for movie superstar Chris Cole (Zac Efron) who is the worst boss ever. By a twist of fate, Chris strikes up a relationship with Zara’s mother Brooke (Nicole Kidman).
This is not the first time we’ve seen a relationship blossom between an older woman and a younger man. I liked how this time around the age factor wasn’t the focal point of the story. Instead the audience is invited into the worlds of these characters as they embark on a journey of self discovery. Of course some hijinks ensue. There are some laugh out loud moments and one in particular that had my husband reaching for the remote to rewind it and watch it again.
At the core is a heartfelt story about finding yourself and growing up. Sure Chris and Brooke form the central romance, but I really liked the depiction of the mother daughter relationship between Zara and Brooke and that of Brooke and her mother in law Leila (Kathy Bates). It really helped tie it all together for me.
The cast was what definitely made the film. King, although a bit whiny at times, was relatable as the lead. Efron proves he’s still a heartthrob and Kidman is as lovely and beautiful as ever. At first I didn’t buy their chemistry, but I have to say that it did eventually win me over. The fact that they got Bates for the grandmother was genius and we can’t leave out the supporting cast of Liza Koshy and Sherry Cola as Zara friends Eugenie and Stella.
Overall, A Family Affair may not add anything new to the genre, but it is a perfectly fine flick with something everyone can enjoy. Thanks to the star studded cast and the emotional material it left me feeling satisfied.
Rating: ♥️♥️♥️
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