My Son (2021)

Director: Christian Carion

Starring: James McAvoy, Claire Foy, Tom Cullen

Driving in the heart of the Highlands, Edmond Murray receives a call from his ex-wife, in tears. Their 7-year-old son went missing from a campsite. Soon it becomes clear that the child was kidnapped and the parents give way to despair.

Edmund’s seven-year old son Ethan disappears on a camping trip with his mother, Edmund’s ex-wife Joan (Claire Foy). James McAvoy delivers a fantastic, emotional performance as Edmund.

We discover evidence as Edmund discovers them via the police, and the plot thickens every step of the way. The setting by the river allows for beautiful cinematography.

Edmund soon becomes suspicious of Joan’s new boyfriend, Frank (Tom Cullen). As the film delves deeper into the mystery, we realize there’s much more going on here than the kidnapping of a child. Realizing he can’t trust anyone, Edmund launches his own investigation and gets involved much deeper than he thought he would. The plot also uncovers a web of criminal activity we never expected. I really felt Edmund’s desperation and respected his determination.

‘My Son’ hits the viewer with surprise upon surprise with a good final act. Little can be said about the movie without doing spoilers, so its best experiencing it for yourself. This is a very good drama thriller that dishes up more than you’d expect.

Would I watch it again? I believe, even with the surprise element gone, the film will be just as exciting with repeat viewings.