MOVIE TITLE: One Big Happy Family

This dramedy hits theaters on October 3, 2025.

RATING: R

LENGTH: 83 minutes

SPONSOR of Today’s movie review:

My twin sister and I wrote this “how to” book on how to research your roots and climb your family tree. You can find it on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3BSUhrO It’s also available as an audiobook!

IN A NUTSHELL:

The movie is based on a true story of Lisa Brenner, whose friend convinced her to take a DNA test only to find out shocking and unexpected results.

The film was directed by Matt Sohn.

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

Some profanity, including several unnecessary F-bombs. A little girl drops some F-bombs too. I hate that.
Lots of alcohol, marijuana, CBD gummies, and Valium.
One of the characters is gay.
Lots of talk about sex.
A rabbi is a woman.
There is a lot of tip-toeing around language about sexism and cultural appropriation.
We watch people get tattoos.

THEMES:

Jewish life
Motherhood
Bat Mitzvah
Religious faith
Family
Identity
DNA
Truth

THINGS I LIKED:

Lisa Brenner wrote the screenplay, produced the film, and stars in the leading role.
Sadly, this is Linda Lavin’s final film performance. The film was released in film festivals 11 days after her death. She was a two-time Golden Globe winner, Tony Award winner, and beloved actress. Lisa Brenner stated, “There was no one else who could have played my mother more truthfully and lovingly than Linda. I am forever grateful she said yes and joined me on this wild journey.”
Other cast members include Lumi Pollack, Josh Fadem, Kat Cunning, Dylan Chance, and Grace Lay.
I always love learning more about Jewish life. I’ve been fascinated by Judaism for years. In fact, I wrote a book about it that hits stores on November 11, 2025! It’s about Hebrew words to help Christians better understand the Bible and God’s covenant relationship with us. The English translations of the Old Testament don’t often reveal the rich meanings behind the Hebrew words used. Follow me on my social media (Instagram, Facebook, X, etc. to learn more about the book when the launch date gets closer to learn more about it!)
A lot of Yiddish phrases are spoken, which is entertaining, but can be confusing if you don’t understand the expressions.
You can keep watching during the final rolling credits to hear an awkward song by Sara about her private parts.

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

It’s not a relaxing movie to watch. The lead character is a neurotic, stressed-out mess, who bickers with everyone. Her yoga practice doesn’t seem to be helping her find peace in her life. She’s rude and unkind to others and her mother, especially, because she’s so focused on herself.
I thought it was odd that the protagonist kept saying how her life was completely destroyed with the news of her newly revealed ancestry. While it would be surprising, it would mean more people to love and be in your family, right? Thankfully, there is a growth arc for her character.
Unfortunately, there is zero chemistry between Dante Basco and Lisa Brenner.

FUNNY LINES:

“Five minutes with her and he’ll give up his yoga practice for Crystal Meth.” – Rachel (Lisa Brenner) talking about Laurence who has a crush on her mother
“Have you seen my seating chart? It’s like a Medieval battle plan.” – Rachel Torres (Lisa Brenner)
“You know I don’t believe in DNA, but whatever it is, you will always be a part of my spiritual family.” – Sara (Kat Cunning)
“It’s going to be like a real-life episode of Jerry Springer!” – Sarah
“I can even eat gluten!” Sara (Kat Cunning) Other Millennials around her gasp.

INTERESTING LINES:

“Our Judaism is the one constant in our life.” – Rachel Torres (Lisa Brenner)
“Just because you’re related doesn’t make you family.” – Javi
“It’s all about the energy of love.” – Sara (Kat Cunning)
“Love doesn’t care about DNA. Love makes its own family.” – Rachel Torres (Lisa Brenner)
“When you have love, you have everything.” – Rachel Torres (Lisa Brenner)