Raymond & Ray

Directed by Rodrigo García, Raymond & Ray follows half-brothers Raymond (Ewan McGregor) and Ray (Ethan Hawke) as they reunite to attend their estranged father’s funeral – with the narrative subsequently detailing the characters’ ongoing exploits alongside a series of oddball figures. Filmmaker García, armed with his own screenplay, delivers a watchable yet disappointingly underwhelming drama that remains unable to become as engrossing or compelling as one might’ve anticipated, which is a shame, ultimately, given that the picture does boast predictably strong work from its two leads – with McGregor and Hawke’s stirring efforts matched by an eclectic supporting cast that includes Maribel Verdú, Vondie Curtis Hall, and Sophie Okonedo. The movie’s arms-length atmosphere is perpetuated by its lack of memorable, stand-out sequences, and it’s clear, as well, that the filmed-play vibe does little to alleviate the less-than-spellbinding vibe (ie there’s a lack of authenticity here that exacerbates the take-it-or-leave-it feel). It is, as such, not surprising to discover that the third act’s revelations are unable to pack the cathartic, emotional punch García has intended, which does, in the final analysis, cement Raymond & Ray‘s place as a decent-enough endeavor that generally feels like it should be much, much better.

**1/2 out of ****