This is not why I go to the movies. This is why I watch TV when I’m bored and there’s nothing worth seeing at the movies. A seemingly happily married couple (aggressive Claire Danes and passive Jim Parsons) must come to grips with their young son’s gender-expansive identity. Silas Howard directs with both eyes aimed at sensitivity and political correctness; theater concession stands may want to consider putting in a line of anxiety medication just to help patrons get through it. As always, it’s the character played by Octavia Spencer who offers up the best advice: if the goal is to get a child enrolled in a special school, whenever possible, play the diversity card. Playright-turned-screenwriter Daniel Pearle spends so much time focusing on the finger-pointing parents and their bruised egos — and showcasing the good-acting-at-its-finest performances by our two leads — that he never really gives us much chance to get to know a kid like Jake. (2018) — Scott Marks
This movie is not currently in theaters.