The Family Stone

Movie Details:

Cast & Characters:

• Diane Keaton as Sybil Stone, the family’s strong-willed, bohemian matriarch. A breast cancer survivor, she deals with the recurrence of the fatal illness. Playing the glue that holds the family together, Keaton was the first actor approached to star in the film. With her attachment to the project, Bezucha and London were able to recruit other actors from their wish list. Keaton has stated that she was instantly drawn to her role, as the many layers to Sybil’s personality allowed her “to explore so many — often conflicting — emotions.”
• Craig T. Nelson as Kelly Stone, Sybil’s husband, a college professor in his sixties. Attracted to the role, Nelson felt Kelly was different compared to other patriarchs: “Kelly appears to be the traditional titular head of the Stone household, but it is Sybil who really dominates the family. Despite his low-key personality, Kelly’s calming yet offbeat influence on each of his five children is obvious.”
• Dermot Mulroney as Everett Stone, Sybil and Kelly’s eldest son, a successful Manhattan executive. Mulroney found it challenging playing a seemingly over-achieving, submissive character, commenting, “Everett starts very button-downed and straight-laced but by the end of the story he returns to his real personality. He is really like the rest of the Stone family: loose and kind of bohemian.”
• Luke Wilson as Ben Stone, Everett’s brother, a stoner and film editor, living in Berkeley, California. Wilson characterized Ben as a dramatic contrast to his straight-and-narrow brother Everett: “Compared to his siblings, Ben is a looser character. He’s the free spirit of the family.”
• Elizabeth Reaser as Susannah Stone Trousdale, the Stones’ eldest daughter. A stay-at-home mom who lives in suburban Chicago and has one child, Elizabeth (Savannah Stehlin), she is expecting her second.
• Tyrone Giordano as Thad Stone, the family’s youngest son. A deaf and gay architect, who lives in Boston and is contemplating adopting a child with his partner Patrick. Bezucha recruited the services of a sign language teacher who worked closely with each actor in the instruction of American Sign Language during rehearsals and throughout production.
• Rachel McAdams as Amy Stone, the youngest member of the family. Amy is a schoolteacher in the Pioneer Valley, pursuing her master’s degree at UMass Amherst, who had previously met Meredith and took an immediate dislike to her. McAdams said she felt “drawn to the dramatic arc that Amy goes through, which eventually brings her full circle. She sees herself as honest, not mean, and expresses that uncensored candor in her sardonic wit.”

Storyline:

An uptight, conservative businesswoman accompanies her boyfriend to his eccentric and outgoing family’s annual Christmas celebration and finds that she’s a fish out of water in their free-spirited way of life.

About The Family Stone Movie:

The Family Stone is an American comedy-drama film written and directed by Thomas Bezucha. The film features an ensemble cast, including Diane Keaton, Craig T. Nelson, Dermot Mulroney, Sarah Jessica Parker, Luke Wilson, Claire Danes, Rachel McAdams, and Tyrone Giordano.

Plot Summary

Set during the Christmas holiday in a small New England town, the film follows the Stone family as they prepare for the arrival of their eldest son, Everett (Mulroney), and his uptight girlfriend, Meredith (Parker). Everett hopes to propose to Meredith using a cherished family heirloom ring for a warm reception. However, Meredith’s formal demeanor and conservative views clash with the Stones’ free-spirited and liberal lifestyle.

As tensions rise, Meredith feels increasingly alienated by the family’s hostility and awkwardness. In a moment of desperation, she calls her sister Julie (Danes) for support, which leads to further complications when Julie arrives and quickly wins over the family with her charm and warmth. Meanwhile, Meredith’s attempts to fit in result in a series of embarrassing missteps that further alienate her from the family.

The film explores themes of acceptance, love, and family dynamics as it unfolds against the backdrop of the holiday season. As secrets are revealed—most notably that matriarch Sybil (Keaton) is battling cancer—the family must confront their feelings for one another and navigate their complex relationships.

Reception

Released on December 16, 2005, The Family Stone received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing approximately $92.9 million worldwide. Sarah Jessica Parker received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, while Keaton, Nelson, and McAdams garnered nominations for Satellite Awards.

Legacy

The Family Stone has become a holiday favorite for many viewers due to its blend of humor and emotional depth. The film’s portrayal of family gatherings during Christmas resonates with audiences, highlighting both the joy and challenges that come with such reunions. Its exploration of personal growth and acceptance makes it a relatable story during the festive season.

Budget & Box Office Collection: