Staying Together

I had the unknown honor of talking with Troma's Llyod Kaufman a few years back when he visited Providence for their film festival. Talking about movies, Llyod made the comment that "a girl always gets naked in a Coming of Age film." In this case, Llyod was correct. Along with the story lines of redemption, meaning, and brotherhood, Daphne Zuniga appears naked as well. A wonder look into the lives of three brothers and their transformation into adulthood in the center of small town, USA. Great character development and a wonderful story. All in all, a good movie

The security that three brothers had with their family and their father's business is shattered without warning when the business is sold. Each brother deals in his own way: one growing up quickly, one capping his anger until he explodes, and the youngest, who is seemingly unaffected, actually being the glue that holds everything together. It's a great idea that with another 30 minutes could have been developed into a wonderful film; unfortunately, in about 90 minutes all that was done was done shallowly. Except for the acting: all the actors, particularly those playing the brothers, were great, and tried very hard to make the film three-dimensional. An OK "feel-good" movie, worth seeing.

I have to admit, given I saw it close to when it was made, I cannot remember the whole film. I have flashes of Melinda Dillon's performance in my head and I absolutely refuse to say anything even remotely negative about Stockard Channing. What also sticks in my head, to this day, is a scene between the three brothers...all of them walking down the main road of the town at some ungodly hour after a good round of drinking and Sean Astin is trying to convince the other two that F*** you is actually a compliment. He has his reasons. It's worth watching. But that's my opinion.

P.S. To the previous poster...the WORST movie ever? Well I only lasted about 20 minutes into Howard the Duck, but I certainly think it has the flop odor to top almost anything else.

This slightly below average film explores a typical small town South Carolina family through some trials and tribulations.

While it breaks no new dramatic ground, "Staying Together" takes a look at the coming of age of late teen brothers in an average American semi-rural setting.

The talented Stockard Channing heads a handsome cast, all hard working to make the most of an earnest if uneven script.

While the film isn't for everyone, those who can appreciate a story of an average smalltown American family may find these characters and situations of interest. Lee Grant is the director.

Not for everyone, but I really like it. Nice ensemble cast, with nice contributions from better known players (like Stockard Channing) and strong eye candy (from Sheila Kelley). What really works is the bond between the three brothers! Try it, you'll smile a little.