Uncle Frank

Movie Trailer

Release Date
November 25, 2020

Genre
Drama, Comedy

Cast & Crew

• Paul Bettany as Frank Bledsoe
• Sophia Lillis as Beth Bledsoe
• Peter Macdissi as Walid “Wally” Nadeem
• Judy Greer as Kitty Bledsoe
• Steve Zahn as Mike Bledsoe
• Margo Martindale as Mammaw Bledsoe
• Stephen Root as Daddy Mac

Director
Alan Ball

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Towelhead (2007)

Producer
Peter Macdissi, Alan Ball, Bill Block, Jay Van Hoy, Michael Costigan

Writer
Alan Ball

Budget
Estimated $15 million

Production Company
Amazon Studios, Miramax, Your Face Goes Here Entertainment

Running Time
95 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R (for language, some sexual references, and brief drug use)

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Sexual references
• Themes of homophobia and family conflict
• Brief drug use

Movie Story
“Uncle Frank” is a poignant drama set in the early 1970s, centered around Frank Bledsoe (Paul Bettany), a gay man living in New York City, who reluctantly returns to his conservative Southern hometown for the funeral of his father. The film is narrated by Frank’s teenage niece, Beth Bledsoe (Sophia Lillis), who looks up to her uncle as a mentor and role model.

The story begins with Beth leaving her small town to attend college in New York City, where she reconnects with Frank. She quickly discovers that her charming and sophisticated uncle is living a secret life with his partner, Wally (Peter Macdissi), a warm and supportive man who deeply loves Frank. The two have been together for over a decade, but Frank has kept his relationship—and his sexuality—a secret from his family due to fear of rejection and judgment.

When Frank’s father, known as Daddy Mac (Stephen Root), dies unexpectedly, Frank is forced to confront his past. Despite his reluctance, he agrees to drive back to South Carolina for the funeral, with Beth and Wally accompanying him on the road trip. The journey becomes an emotional exploration of Frank’s traumatic upbringing, his complicated relationship with his father, and the internalized shame that has kept him from being his true self.

As the road trip progresses, Beth learns more about Frank’s past, including the heartbreaking story of his first love and the devastating impact of his father’s rejection. The film builds toward a cathartic confrontation at the family home, where Frank finally reveals the truth about his life to his family. The film is a touching exploration of family dynamics, identity, acceptance, and the courage it takes to live authentically.

Special Effects
“Uncle Frank” is a character-driven film that focuses on the emotional journeys of its characters rather than special effects. The film’s visual style is naturalistic, with the cinematography capturing the contrast between the bustling energy of New York City and the slower, more oppressive atmosphere of the rural South. The period setting of the 1970s is evoked through the use of costumes, set design, and music, immersing the audience in the era.

Box Office Performance
“Uncle Frank” was released on Amazon Prime Video, where it received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film’s heartfelt performances, particularly by Paul Bettany, and its thoughtful exploration of complex themes resonated with viewers, making it a popular title on the streaming platform.

Filming Locations

• North Carolina, USA
• Georgia, USA

Notable Quotes

• “You don’t get to choose your family, but you do get to choose who you open up to.” – Frank Bledsoe
• “Being who you are is never a mistake.” – Frank Bledsoe

Behind-the-Scenes
“Uncle Frank” was written and directed by Alan Ball, the creator of Six Feet Under and True Blood. The film is a deeply personal project for Ball, who drew from his own experiences growing up in the South and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in conservative communities. Paul Bettany’s portrayal of Frank has been widely praised, with the actor bringing depth and vulnerability to the role. The film’s combination of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments makes it a compelling and emotionally resonant story.

Awards

• Nominated for the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film – Limited Release (2021)

Final Verdict
“Uncle Frank” is a moving and beautifully crafted film that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and acceptance. Paul Bettany delivers a standout performance as Frank, capturing the character’s internal struggles and the pain of living a life in hiding. The film’s exploration of LGBTQ+ issues in the context of the 1970s is both poignant and timely, reminding viewers of the importance of compassion and understanding. With its strong performances, engaging narrative, and emotional depth, “Uncle Frank” is a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven dramas with a meaningful message.

IMDb Rating
7.3/10