Ben (Viggo Mortensen) and Leslie Cash raised their children in the woods in an alternative, survivalist, leftist, anti-modern, anti-capitalist environment. The kids have unique names; Bodevan, Kielyr, Vespyr, Rellian, Zaja and Nai. Ben is brutally honest to his kids even when their mother killed herself in the hospital after long-suffering of bipolar disorder. He tries to assert her wish to be cremated. Her rich father Jack (Frank Langella) refuses and insists on a traditional funeral. Ben drives their bus with his kids to the funeral.
Mortensen has great presence and commitment. His commitment generates both awe and hesitation. His charismatic obsession leads one to follow him but also to call child's services. The kids are just as terrific. Each one delivers a unique and complete performance. Their characters are each compelling in their own right. There are moments of comedy and there are some surprisingly powerful moments of family drama. There are some uncertain turns but it all wraps up in the end. It's a compelling unique movie family.
Mortensen has great presence and commitment. His commitment generates both awe and hesitation. His charismatic obsession leads one to follow him but also to call child's services. The kids are just as terrific. Each one delivers a unique and complete performance. Their characters are each compelling in their own right. There are moments of comedy and there are some surprisingly powerful moments of family drama. There are some uncertain turns but it all wraps up in the end. It's a compelling unique movie family.