Kramer vs. Kramer: A Family Drama
Directed by Robert Benton
“Daddy’s got to bring home the bacon! Not only does he bring home the bacon, but, he’s got to cook it too.”
Ted Kramer
Kramer vs. Kramer thrives in the subtleties that it portrays. It uncovers the unfortunate situation of divorce between two individuals that loved each other but lost themselves along the way. Ted Kramer, a big-shot advertising executive but evidently not a family man, did not consider stopping to smell the roses. As a result, his wife Joanna Kramer walks out on him and their son Billy. This dramatic opening scene sets the tone for the rest of the issues to follow. The film functions as a glimpse into the unfortunate realities of divorce and familial problems. With direction and screenplay written by Robert Benton, the positive reception of Kramer vs. Kramer is carried by stellar dialogue, acting and direction. Apart from these three things, the film is considerably forgettable.
The Kramer’s, of whom the film is based around, is portrayed as a real-life family with great performances. This is the second film I have seen with Dustin Hoffman – my first introduction being Rain Man – and he does a stellar job as a father who is so consumed by his work that he forgets to love the family that is in front of him. Meryl Streep carries a beast of burden as she portrays the wife that has had enough and decides to leave. Her character is portrayed in a way where the audience sympathizes with her, instead of outright anger at her leaving her family behind. Amidst all this big people drama, a child suffers greatly. Billy Kramer, portrayed by Justin Henry, does so well, you would think that he truly lived with this family all his life. A striking scene that is indicative of the beauty of a character driven film is when Ted and Billy have an argument about dinner. Considering all the problems leading up to the argument, the audience understands that both characters are struggling with issues not relating to dinner, but with a disruption to both their lives at the departure of someone they loved. At the cost of relying heavily on these performances, the film falters on its ability to remain memorable. Despite my belief, the film garnered a substantial number of nominations, awards and proclamation throughout the years.
Through it all, Kramer vs. Kramer excels in its subtle direction, acting and dialogue. It is an interesting film but struggles with memorability.
The Island Cinephile 
