The anticipated return of Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron in "A Family Matter"

The new Netflix production, "A Family Affair", has caught the attention of critics and fans of romantic cinema for reuniting once again stars Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron on screen, following their participation in "The Paperboy" twelve years ago. This romantic comedy directed by Richard LaGravenese and written by Carrie Solomon presents us with the story of Brooke Howard (played by Kidman), a successful writer and journalist who falls in love with the famous actor Chris Cole (Efron). The plot revolves around the age and personality differences between the protagonists, as well as the presence of other important characters that add layers of complexity to the story. Joey King portrays Zara Ford, Brooke's daughter who is trying to make a name for herself in the entertainment industry, while Kathy Bates brings to life Leila Ford, Brooke's mother-in-law who provides advice and sensible perspectives throughout the plot. Despite the script's attempts to delve into the conflicts and dilemmas of the characters, some elements of the movie seem to not quite fit. While the effort to include reflections and emotional moments is highlighted, the plot seems to fall into certain clichés typical of romantic comedies, which detracts from the originality and depth of the narrative. The age difference between the protagonists, initially presented as a potential conflict, fails to be effectively exploited in the story. Unlike other recent productions that have tackled this theme more forcefully, "A Family Affair" quickly deflates this tension, focusing on other aspects of the plot. Zac Efron's shirtless presence, a detail that has been a constant in his film career, does not go unnoticed in this movie. Despite his comfort in front of the cameras in nude scenes, this aspect does not add points to the actor's performance, contrasting with the strength and versatility of Nicole Kidman, who has shone in numerous dramatic productions. Amidst criticisms and praises, "A Family Affair" stands out for its attempt to offer a fresh and diverse perspective within the romantic comedy genre. While it doesn't completely escape the clichés and conventions of the genre, the film benefits from the solid performances of its cast and some moments of reflection that invite the viewer to question the conventions of love and family relationships.