‘The Family Stone’ Creator Writing Sequel
Thomas Bezucha, the writer and director of the beloved holiday film, “The Family Stone,” is developing a sequel two decades after its initial release. This announcement comes amidst the grief surrounding the recent passing of Diane Keaton, who portrayed the nurturing matriarch, Sybil Stone, in the original film.
The Impact of Diane Keaton’s Passing
Diane Keaton died at the age of 79 on October 11 due to pneumonia. Her role as Sybil Stone was pivotal in “The Family Stone,” where she navigated family dynamics during a significant holiday gathering. Bezucha shared that he has been profoundly affected by her loss while working on the sequel, emphasizing a deep emotional connection to the character and the film’s setting.
Bezucha’s Commitment to the Sequel
- Bezucha seeks to honor Keaton’s legacy through the new film.
- He aims to create a sequel that resonates with the original cast and audience.
- All original cast members have responded positively to his outreach.
Bezucha stated, “I’m not interested in the Brady family reunion without the original Jan.” His dedication to doing justice to the characters reflects his respect for Keaton’s contribution to the film. The director expressed a desire to “do a good job by the rest of the cast” while keeping Keaton’s memory alive in the sequel.
A Look Back at “The Family Stone”
The 2005 film, “The Family Stone,” revolves around the Stone family’s holiday gathering. Sybil and her husband, Kelly, played by Craig T. Nelson, host their adult children: Everett (Dermot Mulroney), Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker), Amy (Rachel McAdams), Ben (Luke Wilson), and Susannah (Elizabeth Reaser). The plot thickens as Sybil prepares to reveal her terminal illness and confronts the complications of Everett’s plans to propose to Meredith, who faces disapproval from Sybil.
The legacy of “The Family Stone” continues to resonate, making the announcement of a sequel particularly poignant during this period of reflection and remembrance.
