The Myth of Fingerprints

This special film sensitively portrays the familial trials and tribulations of one New England clan's Thanksgiving reunion. Noah Wyle heads the talented and likable cast as Warren, the estranged son, who returns home after an absence precipitated by his father making sexual advances toward his then-girlfriend. As the turkey roasts, everyone falls into their old dysfunctional patterns, while the visiting significant others try desperately to fit in. Julianne Moore gives a fine performance as the sniping emotionally disturbed older sister, Mia. Blythe Danner is superb as the charitable mom, and Roy Scheider plays the role of the aloof but controlling father with aplomb. This impressive debut feature film by Bart Freundlich is thoughtfully written, generously acted, and beautifully filmed. Highly recommended. (A. Glover)