Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

One of the best movies of the 70's. They just don't make them like this anymore. Dustin and Meryl were super good as was little Justin Henry. They made it all come together. An un happy subject matter for sure, but it touches the heart like most films of this ilk do not.Would have liked a bit more background on who watched the boy during Teds work days as he didn't leave early every day to pick him up from school. Should have had scenes like that, and moreover, scenes of Ted and Joannas parents. Surly they were young enough to have had parents who could have helped or at least fit into the scenario. Nothing was even mentioned of them. Minor quibbles to be sure, but it would have made the film a tad bit more realistic.

Kramer vs Kramer is definitely one for the ages. It is story of a workaholic husband (Dustin Hoffman) who is left carrying the 'baby' or his young son after his mother (Meryl Streep) leaves the home. She is unhappy with her life and seeks something else. We see a troubled and frustrated Hoffman try to take care of his son and be on top of a demanding job. The realism and ease which this is conveyed is effortless. Throughout the story we see the son and his father clash only to make up and become closer. Hoffman also befriends a female family friend in the building showing his growth. When we see Hoffman and Billy wake up and make breakfast together in silence we observe a great routine this family has developed. No talking is needed because it has become their way of life that the two easily carry out, watching this you will assume this has always been the state of affairs. Touching moments that resonate with the audience are when Hoffman teaches his son to ride a bike or takes him to his play and helps young Billy remember his lines. When Hoffman is fired and about hit another hurdle he is able to quickly secure another job in his field and shows off his office to his son. The bond between father and son is emotional but not overtly emotional which really works in the films favor as appealing to all audiences. He has been able to fulfill both roles as father and provider, he has made it work. The bond is threatened to be broken when the estranged mother returns and seeks custody of Billy. During the trial period one morning Billy looks up at his father, appreciative. When the two embrace and Billy starts crying no words are needed in the scene as it speaks volumes, a perfect scene. You can see both sides at the end. You are supportive and rally behind the heroic father who has managed to build a happy and balanced life for his son while holding down a decent job, he made it work. Yet you are also sympathetic towards the mother, who while she was selfish she may have been dealing with many issues. The film purposely left out these details to make you wonder and not make an objective assessment. So when it comes to the trial it may be difficult to completely decide which parent Billy should be with. Hence is the power and beautiful film making of Kramer vs Kramer because the audience can try and reach their own verdict which may not be so easy.The brilliance of this film also lies in its simplicity and the simple way the the story is told to its audience. You are easily taken on a journey, you understand it, you believe it and most importantly you feel it. The acting is first class. Dustin Hoffman is brilliant in his portrayal and very worthy of his Best Actor Oscar. Billy and Streep also give very good performances. The music also deserves praise, not only is it consistent it is quite beautiful. Kramer vs Kramer won 5 Oscars, including best film and director. I believe 7.8 is far too low for this simple and yet perfectly executed film. It definitely deserves a spot in the top 250 films as it is truly a classic and definitely one for the ages. 9.5/10

As is usually the case, there are no winners in divorce. Usually, there is no fault as people who are driven often make choices that send the other reeling. Dustin Hoffmann is a high powered executive. He is married to Meryl Streep, but even more, he is married to his work and its schedule. Streep runs off, leaving Hoffmann with their son. The majority of the movie involves the boding between the two men which is extremely bumpy at first. Hoffmann really has no clue how to raise a son he barely knows. The little boy longs to be with his mother, his primary parent in his life. But time helps heal. And then Mom comes back. What happens now? This is such a realistic portrayal of the pain of divorce and how it affects the defenseless. One of the best movies of the year.

I've gotta say, in a movie that features Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep (both offering high-calibre stuff), it's Justin Henry that really leaves an indelible mark on "Kramer vs. Kramer". You conjure a certain idea when you hear what this movie's about (and that's true, those are some unpleasant divorce proceedings in the courtroom, to be sure), but there's a real emotional core to this that you just don't expect. It's not bad enough that Hoffman's been left to father his child alone, but Meryl Streep has to come back for custody. Where this movie really shines is in the scenes with Hoffman and his son (Henry), both in bonding and saying goodbye. It's a beautiful relationship. Streep gets the shaft because of this, but she's still not half-assing it.This is a brutal movie because of the pervading sense that the wound always feels fresh. And you never see the emotional hay-makers coming. But the sentiment isn't artificial, and there are no overwrought theatrics. That's what I love about this; there's genuine heart to all of it. And I defy anyone to keep from welling up during father and son's dialogue scene in the closing minutes ("You're not gonna kiss me good night anymore, are you, Dad?").8/10