Joaquin Phoenix, Woody Norman (L-r)

With the first of the two big end-of-the-year holidays upon us, many theatres will be showing family films. And while most are of the “all ages” category, this new release tackles the ups-and-downs of an often scattered, and a tad dysfunctional, family unit. For many single adults, the big “Thursday meal” is a chance to reconnect with the offspring of your siblings, to assume the moniker of “doting aunt” or “cool uncle”. You get to have some fun with the lil’ tykes, but you can hand them off to their folks when they become tired or cranky. The new film wonders how an adult reacts when they’re suddenly thrust into the guardian role. More than likely you’d resort to a familiar phrase while urging them to get ready for an outing or off to school: C’Mon C’Mon!

Near forty-something and single...