Review of I Never Sang for My Father

...the idea that the family is in trouble long before the scene opens, by way of the title.

I think the pivotal idea is in how each of us remembers certain events in life. The father remembers the relationship in one way, the son in another. Old age and parents experiencing end of life issues, families in turmoil - topical for today's baby-boomers.

I would strongly recommend viewing it. I believe I saw it in 1971 when it appeared in theaters. Sad and sardonic, it plays to everyone or anyone who has had to take care of a parent with whom times were not always bright and sunny. In fact, relationships take on such dark, shadowy aspects it is too easy to get lost in the depths of remembered despair.

I think Hackman's character shows sufficient torment - "do I love him or hate him for being the sad character he is now or for what I remember of him as a kid?" Which, if you are like others, the latter will be the more likely choice. We struggle with our consciences the whole of our lives, but even when the other dies, the object of our contention, we are still racked with guilt.