The enduring friendship between the Walling and Ostroff families is tested when Nina, the prodigal Ostroff daughter, returns home for the holidays after a five-year absence and enters into an affair with David, head of the Walling family.
It’s overfamiliar stuff, played out in a sitcom-style, and despite some distinguished acting, The Oranges has limited appeal, unless you are Woody Allen.
The Oranges remains a juicy comic odyssey, pithy to its core.
Ably directed by Brit Julian Farino (TV’s Entourage) it’s no classic but diverting enough. At the very least it will most likely put your family Christmas feuds into perspective.
This is a strangely tentative film, perched uncomfortably between Meet the Fockers-style comedy and Ingmar Bergman-style introspection.
Feels very much like a Hollywoodised cover version of a rough-around-the-edges indie film.
The storyline delicately tiptoes along the line of good taste and is embroidered by a first-rate cast. Still, a knockout moment is missing.
Despite its promisingly sprightly tone, however, The Oranges disappoints with its gooey liberalism and its failure to find a convincing dramatic register for the central relationship.
The acting almost varnishes the fractured surface, enabling the audience to accept the film as a deeply felt, feelgood family comedy.
Julian Farino interview: 'I spent two years fighting for Hugh Laurie'
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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