Jim Jarmusch Returns With Star-Studded ‘Father Mother Sister Brother,’ Winner of Venice’s Golden Lion

Trailer for Father Mother Sister Brother, Courtesy of Saint Laurent Productions/MUBI

Jarmusch has always been a filmmaker who marches to the beat of his own drum, and this film seems to be no exception. Forget explosions and car chases; he’s dubbed this one an “anti-action film.” Instead, expect a quiet, meditative exploration of the messy, complicated, and often frustrating world of family. If you’re a fan of his slow-burn classics like Paterson or Broken Flowers, get ready to be thrilled.

Everything We Know About Father Mother Sister Brother

Father Mother Sister Brother isn’t just one story; it’s three. The film is like a triptych, a trio of tales set across the globe, each diving into the delicate and often challenging dynamics between adult children and their parents. It’s the kind of premise that feels universally relatable yet ripe for Jarmusch’s unique, offbeat touch.

Here’s the breakdown of the three parts:

• Father: Set on the east coast in the U.S., this segment follows two siblings (portrayed by Adam Driver and Mayim Bialik) as they check in on their reclusive father (the legendary Tom Waits) after a bit of drama at their mother’s funeral. Given the cast, expect some seriously intense, awkward, and probably hilarious family tension.
• Mother: Hopping over to Dublin, we find two sisters (Cate Blanchett and Vicky Krieps) visiting their novelist mother, portrayed by the iconic Charlotte Rampling. The sheer acting power in this segment alone is enough to make any film lover’s heart race.
• Sister Brother: The final story takes us to Paris, where twins (Indya Moore and Luka Sabbat) are dealing with the aftermath of a family tragedy by sorting through their deceased parents’ apartment. This story promises a poignant look at grief, memory, and the bonds that tie us together.

The Cast Is an Indie Dream Come True

Let’s be real: this cast is absolutely stacked. Jim Jarmusch has always had a knack for assembling incredible ensembles, and Father Mother Sister Brother might just be his masterpiece in that department.

We have the incomparable Cate Blanchett, who can do no wrong, and the magnetic Adam Driver, who has become a modern acting titan. Add to that the effortlessly cool musician and actor Tom Waits, a frequent Jarmusch collaborator, and the luminous Vicky Krieps, and you’ve already got a powerful lineup.

Throw in legends like Charlotte Rampling and fresh, exciting talents like Indya Moore and Luka Sabbat, and you have a recipe for cinematic gold. It’s a collection of actors who aren’t just famous; they’re interesting, and they’re perfect for bringing Jarmusch’s quiet, nuanced, and often introspective world to life.

When Can You See Father Mother Sister Brother?

The wait is almost over. Father Mother Sister Brother made its grand debut at the Venice Film Festival on August 30, 2025, where it competed for – and won – the prestigious Golden Lion. For those of us not fortunate enough to be in Venice, the film will be released in the U.S. on December 24, 2025, courtesy of Mubi. Mark your calendars for a Christmas-time cinematic treat that’s more about existential conversations than sleigh bells.

Jarmusch has been nominated for the Palme d’Or at Cannes a staggering nine times but has never taken home the top prize. This is definitely his year to triumph at a major festival! With a motion picture this poignant, he certainly deserves the best film award.