Relative (2022): Cast, Ratings & Box Office
Relative is a 2022 comedy drama directed by Michael Glover Smith, starring Francis Guinan as David Frank, Wendy Robie and Clare Cooney. It runs 1 hour 37 minutes and earned $23,168 worldwide. Its Echo Score is 84/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 37m (97 min)
- Director
- Michael Glover Smith
- Original language
-
English
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Relative About?
The premise of Relative without spoilers.
When the Frank family gathers in Chicago for a college graduation celebration, long-held relationships are unexpectedly challenged. As various family members reconnect, they confront their individual perspectives and discover the strength of their bonds in surprising and poignant ways. The gathering prompts them to re-evaluate their understanding of each other and the family dynamic.
Relative Themes & Keywords
· 4 tags- sibling relationship
- chicago illinois
- family relationships
- college
Relative Cast & Characters
Francis Guinan leads the cast as David Frank, with Wendy Robie as Karen Frank and Clare Cooney as Evonne Frank. Directed by Michael Glover Smith; 10 actors are credited in all.
- Director Michael Glover Smith
-
Francis Guinan as David Frank - Wendy Robie as Karen Frank
- Clare Cooney as Evonne Frank
- Cameron Scott Roberts as Benji Frank
Also Starring in Relative
· 6 more- Emily Lape Norma Frank
- Elizabeth Stam Hekla
- Melissa DuPrey Lucia Aguirre
- Keith D. Gallagher Rod Frank
- Heather Chrisler Sarah
- Penelope Walker Dr. Bradley
More from Michael Glover Smith
More films directed by Michael Glover Smith: Handle with Care, Paper Planes, Mercury in Retrograde and Cool Apocalypse.
Relative Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 84/100, strongest in art & craft (88) and weakest in story & flow (75).
Relative Echo Score Breakdown
Relative presents an intimate portrait of three generations of a Chicago family, drawing on strong ensemble performances and understated direction. Critics and many viewers highlight the film’s warm production values, effective cinematography, and resonant dialogue that convey both humor and drama. Some reviewers note uneven pacing and occasional fragmentation, pointing to moments where the narrative feels less polished. Overall, the consensus leans toward a rewarding indie effort that succeeds in emotional engagement despite minor structural flaws.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 88
Regarding art and craft, the film demonstrates restrained yet effective direction, highlighted by a subtle visual style and smooth editing. Critics commend the understated cinematography and production design that ground the story in a realistic Chicago setting. While one reviewer mentions occasional fragmentation, most observations praise the cohesive aesthetic, resulting in a solid technical execution for an independent production.
- Character & Emotion 80
When assessing character and emotion, reviewers consistently note strong ensemble acting and nuanced performances that bring depth to each family member. Several critics describe the cast as brilliant and the portrayals as emotionally resonant, while a few users criticize shallow caricatures and uneven chemistry. Overall, the majority of feedback points to a compelling, heartfelt ensemble that anchors the film’s emotional core.
- Story & Flow 75
In terms of story and flow, the narrative centers on a family reunion that blends comedy and drama, earning praise for its relatable dialogue and measured pacing. Critics highlight the film’s engaging exploration of familial dynamics, though one review cites a fragmented structure and lack of polish. The mixed comments suggest a generally effective plot that occasionally stumbles in cohesion.
- Sensory Experience 85
The sensory experience receives commendation for its authentic soundscape and thoughtful musical selections, including piano pieces that enhance emotional beats. Viewers note the realistic Chicago locations and a restrained visual palette that elevate ordinary moments. While sound design is not heavily discussed, the overall impression is that the film’s auditory and visual elements cohesively support its intimate tone.
- Rewatch Factor 78
Rewatch factor is perceived as strong, with several viewers expressing a desire to see the film again due to its heartfelt dialogue and resonant themes. The film’s blend of humor and drama, combined with memorable character interactions, contributes to its lasting appeal. However, a minority of reviewers found limited narrative momentum, reducing their incentive for repeat viewings.
Relative Box Office
Relative grossed $23,168 worldwide.
Worldwide gross
$23.2K
- US & Canada
- $23.2K
Relative Trailers & Videos
2 videos: 1 trailer and 1 featurette.
- Featurette Post-Screening Q&A
Seen Relative?
Movies Like Relative
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including All Relative, Relative Strangers and The Relatives.
Relative FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office and post-credit scenes of Relative, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Relative?
Relative runs 1 hour 37 minutes (97 minutes).
When was Relative released?
Relative was released on March 12, 2022.
Who directed Relative?
Relative was directed by Michael Glover Smith.
More films by Michael Glover Smith Who is in the cast of Relative?
Relative stars Francis Guinan as David Frank, Wendy Robie as Karen Frank and Clare Cooney as Evonne Frank, among 10 credited actors.
How much did Relative make at the box office?
Relative grossed $23,168 worldwide.
Does Relative have a post-credit scene?
No. Relative has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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