The Deep End of the Ocean (1999): Dir: Ulu Grosbard / Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Treat Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Jonathan Jackson, Alexa Vega: Drama that inquires how far one would go to obtain information or achieve goals. Michelle Pfeiffer plays a mother who turns her back for only a second only to be confronted with the reality that one of her children is missing. Nine years later she hasn't gotten over it but still continues her job as a photographer. One day her daughter arrives home with a friend to mow the lawn. Pfeiffer is stunned at his resemblance to her missing son. After taking snapshots she involves police resulting in a disturbing film where no one can ultimately win. There is an intriguing twist in the conclusion that ties everything together. Directed by Ulu Grosbard who previously made Georgia. Fine performances by Pfeiffer who suffers for a mistake but will go at lengths to correct it. Treat Williams as her husband is cardboard and basically there to tell Pfeiffer to give up. Whoopi Goldberg has the thankless role as a gay detective with misguided humour. Jonathan Jackson plays the now older son who remembers nothing but is overwhelmed by this sudden life that he cannot reflect. Alexa Vega plays the younger sister who avoids being missing. Depressing film with a strong message about protecting children from society's deep end. Score: 7 / 10
Review of The Deep End of the Ocean
