Review of Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) by Ross M — 08 Jan 2009

Now that I have re-watched this I can gladly say that this is a 5 star film.

This is one of the most accurate films based on family life and is also one of the most emotional.

The realism of the film is perhaps part of the success it has gained. Another factor was that it was so emotional. Justin Henry delivers The Best child performance I have ever seen and most of the lines that nearly made me cry were from him. He delivered them realistically; he understood how a child would feel and it had a massive impact on the film in a good way. Dustin Hoffman, as outstanding as ever, and finally earning an oscar which he had a long time coming, really blew me away. I could actually believe he was the single, struggling dad of the story. With the two great male performances, one young and one middle aged, a relaistic atmosphere was crafted. I have to say that the chemistry between the two was spellbinding. And finally, Meryl Streep, in her second best role after The Deer Hunter matches the talnet she had in that film the previous year. Again, the realism was there and had a great affect. I think each actor was perfect for the role and did not fail atall in their parts.

The directing was great, and I do think that without the powerful directing from Roobert Benton, who also won an oscar, half the atmosphere and emotion would have been non-existent. He crafted each and every scene beautifully. The perfect partner to his great directing was his wonderful script, which secured him his second oscarfor the same film. He suceeded in creating a moving film, and suceeded at the Acdemy Awards as a deserving result.

It almost got the perfect 5 (Screenplay, Director, Actor, Actress, Picture) , and in my eyes pretty much did, because, even though Meryl won best supporting actress, it was still an actress win.

I was blown away by this film. Memorable, heartfelt, emotional, just an overall brilliant film.