The definition of family is called into question in Patrick Wang’s affecting naturalistic drama, In the Family. At the film’s open we meet six-year-old Chip and his two dads, Cody and Joey, who reside happily in a small town in Tennessee. But tragedy isn’t far off, as Cody dies suddenly following a car accident. While trying to rebuild their family nucleus, news comes that Chip’s care has been gifted to Cody’s sister. Joey once a trusted insider, finds himself in a lonely and desperate predicament. A timely, heartbreaking and inspiring story, Wang’s first effort may set you back about 169 minutes, but it’s well worth it.

In the Family is a New Yorker Films release.

(Originally appeared on Flavorpill.com in November 2012)