What Makes a Family

What Makes a Family is a remarkable 2001 drama film that delivers a resounding tale of love, determination, and legal battles in the face of adversity. Directed by Maggie Greenwald and boasting a talented cast including Brooke Shields, Cherry Jones, and Anne Meara, the film offers a poignant exploration of societal norms and the enduring power of love. The movie is based on a true story, underscoring the reality of the struggles faced by the protagonists, adding depth to the narrative's social relevance.

Brooke Shields stars as Janine Nielssen, a woman who exudes a perfect blend of courage and vulnerability throughout her journey. Janine falls in love with Sandy Cataldi, played by Cherry Jones, in an earnest portrayal of a woman starkly unapologetic about her sexuality. Their chemistry on screen is not only palpable but invites viewers into their world, rooting for their happiness and their family's well-being. While Anne Meara plays Evelyn Cataldi, Sandy's mother, who adds another layer of family dynamics and emotional complexity to the plot.

Set in the context of the 1980s, a period marked by strong societal norms and conventions, the movie explores the relationship between Janine and Sandy, navigating through their blossoming love, domestic life, and desire to start a family. Deciding to nurture a life together, they conceive a child through artificial insemination. Tragedy strikes when Sandy, the biological mother of their child Heather, dies unexpectedly. At this point, the film delves into the arduous fight for custody that Janine, as a non-biological mother, has to face against Sandy's family.

The movie powerfully depicts the emotional ordeal, highlighting the deep bond and love Janine has for Heather, which doesn't waver despite the legal battles. It puts a spotlight on the bias faced by same-sex partners, particularly in the context of the family, thus challenging traditional definitions of what makes a family. The plot is a compelling exploration of the monumental legal struggles that same-sex couples often confront, thus emphasizing the consequences of discriminatory societal norms.

Vividly demonstrating the personal and legal battles faced by Janine, What Makes a Family inspires viewers with its message of resilience, love, and bravery. The film brings forth thought-provoking themes of parenthood, redefining the idea of what family really means, and how it isn't strictly limited to traditional ties of blood and birth. It hearteningly illustrates how love and deep care can form the fundamental glue of unconventional families, challenging the societal stereotypes around the traditional family unit.

A particularly commendable aspect of the movie is the way it simplifies complex legal conflicts and dilemmas for the viewers without straying from its emotional core. The screenplay skillfully depicts both the protagonist's personal lives and the greater social complexities that come into play with their desire to lead a life just like anyone else.

The director, Maggie Greenwald, expertly navigates various subplots, delicately weaving together the narrative strands of love, loss, and a relentless struggle for justice. Greenwald captures the rawness of emotions, human resilience, and the overwhelming power of a mother's love, making the viewing experience a deeply emotional journey.

The performances in the movie are note-worthy, with Shields and Jones delivering formidable and convincing portrayals of their characters. They bring a certain authenticity and raw emotion to their characters, immersing viewers into the narrative. Meara, in her role as the mother-in-law, equally stands out, adding another layer of conflict and compassion to the storyline.

What Makes a Family is a beautifully poignant family drama that educates and challenges viewers. It serves not only as a tribute to the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity but also as a call to action to redefine the societal norms that determine a family's constitution. By addressing issues such as intolerance and societal discrimination, the movie provokes introspection about acceptance, understanding, and the true essence of love and family.

Offering a deep dive into societal norms and prejudice, the movie leaves a lasting impression. It's an inclusive narrative that paints an intimate portrayal of love, loss, and the ensuing legal battle in a same-sex couple's life. Grounded in reality, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acceptance and the evolving notion of what truly makes a family.