'Ezra' Trailer - Bobby Cannavale, De Niro Star in a Sincere Film on Family and Dealing with Autism

Ezra by Tony Goldwyn — Ezra (John Baer | Bleecker Street)

Bleecker Street revealed the official trailer for Ezra, the comedy drama film starring Bobby Cannavale as a stand-up comedian living with his father played by Robert De Niro, while struggling to co-parent his autistic son with his ex-wife.

Also starring in the film are Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn; and introducing William A. Fitzgerald as Ezra.

Release Date

Directed by Tony Goldwyn, who also appears in the film, Ezra world premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and opens in theaters on May 31, 2024.

Synopsis

A touching portrait of family and friendship, Ezra tells the story of Max Bernal (Bobby Cannavale), a stand-up comedian living with his father (Robert De Niro), while struggling to help co-parent his autistic son Ezra (introducing William Fitzgerald) with his ex-wife (Rose Byrne). When forced to confront difficult decisions about their son’s future, Max & Ezra leave on a cross-country road trip that has a transcendent impact on both their lives. Ezra is an endearing and often funny exploration of a family determined to find their way through life’s complexities with humor, compassion, and heart.

Reviews

Ezra has received good reviews across the board with Bobby Cannavale singled out for his performance as a New Jersey stand-up comic who constantly butts heads with his ex-wife played by Rose Byrne over the best way of raising their autistic son. In their review, Hollywood Reporter wrote, “Cannavale knows he’s landed a great role and really runs with it; he’s entirely credible as both a stand-up comic in the Mort Sahl vein and as a fiercely protective dad whose desire for Ezra to live a ‘normal’ life occasionally blinds him to what best serves his son. His interplay with young Fitzgerald, remarkable in his first professional outing, never feels less than authentic, as does his heated bantering with De Niro, who brings a weighty but tender conviction here that isn’t always evident in his supporting roles.”

Deadline review agreed, saying, “Cannavale’s portrayal of Max is nothing short of brilliant. His electric performance is further elevated by his dynamic with Robert De Niro. Their portrayal of the father-son relationship feels genuine, filled with moments of tension, laughter, and mutual connection. De Niro, in his signature style, adds layers to his role, creating a character that resonates. He still remains one of Hollywood’s most talented legends.”