Falling

John (Viggo Mortensen) lives with his partner Eric (Terry Chen) and their daughter Monica (Gabby Velis) in California, away from the traditional rural life he left behind many years ago. One of the reasons for moving away from his roots is his father, Willis (Lance Henriksen), A man with a history of violent outbursts of anger and lots of racist and homophobic prejudices. He lives alone on the secluded farm where John grew up. Willis’ mind is shrinking, so John brings him to his home, hoping he and his sister, Sarah (Laura Linney) can help their father to find a home closer to them. Their best intentions are met with angry refusal from Willis who opposes changing his lifestyle in any way.

In his debut film as a director, Mortensen examines the fragments and goodies of a contemporary family. The past versus the present and also the future in form of the opinionated grandchildren. The film focuses on the tough relationship between father and son and their memories of past events which tore the family apart. This film is a journey from darkness to light, rage and resentment to acceptance and kindness.