Ex-Husbands is an indie comedy-drama that dives into the lives of fathers and sons whose personal struggles come to light during a bachelor party getaway. Breaking up is a thread that’s explored throughout the film, starting with the shocking news that Manhattan dentist Peter Pearce (Griffin Dunne) received from his father—he is divorcing his mom after 65 years. His midlife crisis intensifies when his own wife of 35 years (Rosanna Arquette) leaves him.

He impulsively decides to book a trip to Tulum, Mexico, the same place as his oldest son Nick’s (James Norton) bachelor party, thrown by his younger son Mickey (Miles Heizer). Though he promised not to crash the party, their paths inevitably crossed anyway. While this setup could have easily turned into a wild, riotous comedy filled with booze-filled antics, I’m glad that’s not the case here. I appreciate how writer/director Noah Pritzker highlights the relationship dynamics, thoughtfully exploring the men’s struggles without trivializing them. As a woman raised without a dad, the film is accessible enough that I can connect with the unique dynamics of father-son relationships. It shines with its naturalistic dialog and nuanced performances that feel authentic.

I’m not familiar with Dunne, but I’m a huge fan of Norton, and he’s the reason I saw this film. Norton is a versatile British actor who convincingly plays a downcast, disheartened American in his 30s  who’s disillusioned with where he’s at in his life. He’s still waiting tables with no promising prospect in sight. When Nick reveals his secret to his brother, his brokenness is so palpable it makes me want to reach out into the screen and give him a hug.

I really enjoyed Dunne’s low-key performance, and he’s immediately sympathetic as a dad who tries his hardest to connect with his sons. He’s quite clueless sometimes, as exemplified by the cringeworthy but funny conversation on the plane with Mickey, who recently came out as gay. I’m also impressed by Heizer here, who radiates empathy and compassion while navigating his own sexual identity. I think the trio works quite well together, and despite their lack of resemblance in their looks, they seem believable as a family.

As for the supporting cast, Eisa Davis stands out as someone he encounters on the trip who’s officiating her goddaughter’s wedding. I haven’t seen Rosanna Arquette in ages, but her appearance here is more blink-and-you-miss-it. There are plenty of dysfunctional family dramedies out there, but I always welcome thought-provoking, character-driven stories like this one. The pacing can be improved, however, as it dragged a bit despite the relatively short 90-minute running time. Still, it’s a heartfelt multi-generational tale of men grappling with their relationship woes in today’s society. Plus, the gorgeous Tulum scenery offers a bit of cinema escapism.

Ex-Husbands is now available on VIDEO ON DEMAND

What are your thoughts on this movie and/or the cast?