Review of Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) by Chris W — 20 Aug 2011

This film, which deals with the trials and tribulations of divorce and changing ideas about gender roles, took home a bunch of Oscars back as the 70s ended and gave way to the 80s. While it does deserve a lot of the awards it got, I don't think this is a real groundbreaking masterpiece that has stood the test of time.

Some of it still holds up, yes, but mostly this film is a real product of its time, even though the themes and isssues are still relevant now. It;s their treatment that hasn't held up quite as much. That shouldn't keep you from seeing this though, because it's still a really good film.

The performances are terrific. Both Hoffman and Streep are fantastic, but this is truly Hoffman's film all the way. Justin Henry is also quite terrific, whih si nice since most child actors are usually terribly annoying and not good performers. Jane Alexander and JoBeth Williams also deliver in some nice supporting roles.

Something I really appreciated about this film is how, even though most of the time is spent with Hoffman, this film is very fair, balanced, and doesn't take sides. That's probably the other best thing is has going for it aside from the acting. The writing and directing are serviceable, but a little underwhelming, and this film left me depressed. I'm glad I saw it though, and I do recommend it, though I'm not sure if I really want to see this multiple times.