The only comedy drama on Netflix to watch this weekend: ’53 Sundays’
Weekends don’t always have to be fast-paced; sometimes, all we ask of them is to be relatable because in a fast-forward world, we often forget to slow down and attend to our emotions. So, for a change of air, if you’d prefer a conversation-heavy movie to wind down with, 53 Sundays is a solid weekend choice on Netflix.
Directed by Cesc Gay, 53 Sundays follows three adult siblings who gather to decide what to do with their 86-year-old father, who is starting to forget things.
The central plot of 53 Sunday kicks off with a series of events, such as their father struggling to recall which bus to take home and flashing at the neighbours when Natalia, the middle child, summons her two brothers, Julián and Victor, for a family meeting. Julián, the youngest of the three, is a struggling actor, and the latter, the eldest, is a rich lawyer.
After the three reunite at Julián’s apartment, it doesn’t take long for the classic sibling energy to fill the room. Following Natalia and Victor’s suggestion that Julián should help their dad more often since he has plenty of free time, the discussion spirals out of control, with the brothers going at each other with neither prepared to back down.
Natalia tries to de-escalate the fight in an attempt to initiate a healthy conversation, but soon the brothers accuse her of people-pleasing behaviour, and hell breaks loose.
Since 53 Sundays captures the awkward dynamics that define most adult sibling relationships, as evidenced by a mature decision rapidly devolving into bickering and passive-aggression, it is hilariously familiar to watch for anyone and everyone who has had a family meeting that went off the rails.
Although the Netflix movie takes an emotional turn, it hits the sweet spot without being too taxing, making it a perfect pick for a slow weekend watch.
But don’t mistake 53 Sundays as not your usual three-hour watch. The dramedy respects your time and gets straight to the point in 78 minutes. So, those with commitment issues may not worry.
Plus, 53 Sundays also fits the bill of those seeking recommendations of what’s new on Netflix. If you haven’t caught up with it yet, now is the time to hit the play button.