In Anniversary, directed by Jan Komasa, Paul (Kyle Chandler) frequently asks his family to avoid discussing politics during gatherings. The film opens with the celebration of Paul and Ellen’s (Diane Lane) 25th wedding anniversary, where their four children, including Josh (Dylan O’Brien) and his fiancée Liz (Phoebe Dynevor), come together. Despite the family dynamics, Liz, who has a connection to Ellen as her former student, navigates the complexities of her new family.
The narrative gradually reveals Liz’s ambitions, specifically the publication of her book, The Change: A New Social Compact, which masquerades a form of authoritarianism as a third-option humanism. The film presents a somewhat dubious premise—that a nonfiction book could ignite social change, particularly in a contemporary setting marked by intense political strife.
While Anniversary critiques right-wing radicalization stemming from status grievances within the upper classes, it misinterprets the nuances of free speech in comedy through characters like Anna, a stand-up comic. Josh’s character transforms from a struggling son to a smug thought leader, effectively showcasing the film’s commentary on familial and societal dynamics.
Though the film holds interest, it often feels better suited for stage adaptation due to its dialogue-heavy scenes, lacking the depth that a novel might provide for its ensemble cast. The film also suffers from a washed-out aesthetic that detracts from the performers. Ultimately, while the film offers thoughtful reflections on issues like fascism and authoritarianism, its execution raises questions about its format, suggesting that a different medium might have captured its themes more effectively.
