Ezra 2024

The film presents a poignant journey of a separated couple, comedian Max Bernal, played by Bobby Cannavale, and his ex-wife Jenna, portrayed by Rose Byrne, as they navigate the challenges of raising their autistic son, Ezra, who is played by William A. Fitzgerald.

Max, living with his father, Stan, an ex-chef portrayed by Robert De Niro, becomes increasingly frustrated with the conventional recommendations from Ezra’s school. These suggestions center on a traditional approach to education for children with disabilities, such as enrolling Ezra in special schools and involving specialists. Max believes that isolating Ezra from the typical experiences of life would not foster the resilience he needs to thrive in the world.

The tension escalates after a distressing incident in which Ezra overhears a conversation between Jenna and her new boyfriend, Bruce, played by Tony Goldwyn. Bruce, in a misguided attempt at humor, talks about hiring someone to assist Jenna with Ezra’s challenges. This distress causes Ezra to react, leading him to run away in fear and nearly get hit by a car, which results in a hospital visit. Due to a misunderstanding, the doctors speculate that Ezra may have attempted to take his own life, leading them to prescribe him medication and recommend he attend a special school.

Max, heartbroken at the thought of losing his son to the system, confronts the doctors, which tragically results in his arrest and a court order keeping him away from Ezra for three months. As a consequence, Ezra begins attending the special school and takes the prescribed medication, which only deepens his feelings of sadness.

In a bold act of love, Max decides to take Ezra on a cross-country trip to meet an old friend, Nick, played by Rainn Wilson. During this journey, Max receives great news: he has been selected to perform on a popular television show in California. The two escape to the adventures ahead, but Jenna, distraught over her son’s abduction, persuades Stan to help her rescue Ezra.

As they travel, Ezra encounters new people and experiences, gradually breaking down his barriers. He learns to accept physical contact, something he had never allowed anyone to do before, showcasing his incredible growth and resilience.

Their journey reaches a climax when they arrive at the television show venue, only to find that the police are waiting to apprehend Max, as Jenna has reported him. In a dramatic moment, Ezra, driven by a deep instinct to protect his father, jumps to his aid, providing emotional support as Max is taken away, and illustrating the powerful bond between them.

This heartfelt story explores themes of family, acceptance, and the lengths a parent will go to create a sense of normalcy for their child.