Father Mother Sister Brother, winner of the Golden Lion, unfolds as a trilogy of stories that explore the subtle, often unspoken dynamics between family members across generations.
In these three interwoven narratives, estranged siblings reunite after years apart, confront emotionally distant parents, and are pushed to face long-buried tensions. With moments that are by turns comic, tender, and quietly devastating, Jarmusch (director) captures how distance, time, and memory shape the way we relate to those closest to us.
Genre: drama, comedy
Language: English, subtitles: Dutch
Length: 1 hr 50 mins (2025)
In the U.S., a well-off brother and sister in their forties travel north to visit their father, who has become a widower. Their well-intentioned concern for his well-being leads to a gentle comedy full of awkward moments and, as it turns out, a complete misjudgment of their father’s life.
In Ireland, a glamorous mother hosts her daughters for a meticulously arranged afternoon tea. Here, the roles are reversed: she questions them about their lives, but they keep the truth from her, with delightful comical consequences.
And in France, a brother and sister reunite after their parents are killed in a plane crash. With an open mind, they unravel their parents’ transatlantic life as documents and belongings in the now-empty Paris apartment reveal identities they never knew excisted.
Jim Jarmusch’s Golden Lion-winning “anti-action” comedy explores the sometimes tender, sometimes awkward interactions between a bohemian generation and their grown children. This trilogy features an impressive star-studded cast, including Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Tom Waits, Cate Blanchett, Vicky Krieps, Charlotte Rampling, Indya Moore, and Luka Sabbat.
Awards
The film won the Golden Lion at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival. It was also named one of the Top 10 Independent Films by the National Board of Review.
Reviews
“Basically, there is a contentment and calm here, an acceptance and a Zen simplicity … It is a film to savour.” The Guardian
“A funny, tender, astutely observed jewel of a family triptych.” The Hollywood Reporter
“What connects these tales isn’t narrative propulsion but pulse. Jarmusch is patiently attuned to people trying, and largely failing, to bridge the small emotional gaps that can turn into chasms..” Toronto Star
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos.
- Tickets must be purchased online in advance and can be bought by clicking the black “Order” button on this page.
- Cash or card payments are not accepted at the ticket counter.
For more information about tickets, refund policies, and other details, click here.
Please be on time
The screening of the film begin promptly at 19:30 (with no pre-film advertisements), and the cinema hall will open at 19:10. We kindly request that you arrive at the ticket counter at least 10 minutes before the start of the film to ensure a smooth and timely experience for all.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the Student Film Committee and Natlab.