Mass
2021
***½
Director: Fran Kranz
Cast: Jason Isaacs, Martha Plimpton, Ann Dowd, Reed Birney, Breeda Wool, Kagen Albright, Michelle N. Carter, Martha M. Carter, Billy Knight, Tabatha Shaun
Two sets of parents gather in a church meeting room years after a traumatic school shooting took the lives of their respective sons, Hayden and Evan. Hayden was the shooter and Evan was one of the victims. Actor Fran Kranz, best known for his slightly goofy roles, makes his writing and directing debut with this grim chamber drama. As the couples try to find closure and understanding, their increasingly intense and emotional encounter tackles grief, loss, guilt, blame, reconciliation, and forgiveness. This gripping, well-acted conversation is tastefully handled, but it might be more effective as a radio or stage play, as it lacks any cinematic elements.
