The Thing About My Folks

Muriel Kleinman makes an unexpected exit from her husband, Sam. This sudden move leaves a void in the family, especially for their three daughters: Linda, Hillary, and Bonnie.

After their mother’s departure, Linda, Hillary, and Bonnie, along with daughter-in-law Rachel, embark on a heartfelt journey to find Muriel. Their determination is fueled by love as they seek to understand why she left.

Meanwhile, Sam and his son Ben head out on a leisurely trip to the countryside. Their adventure takes an enjoyable turn when they explore properties that could potentially become their new home.

As Sam and Ben are soaking in their idyllic day, disaster strikes when Ben's car breaks down. This leads Sam to a vintage 1940 Ford Deluxe coupe convertible, which adds a unique charm to their journey.

Driving down the open road in their restored convertible, Sam and Ben reminisce about cherished memories. They engage in games of pool, fishing outings, and share hearty laughter, strengthening their father-son bond.

As the summer progresses, Ben becomes increasingly concerned about his mother's whereabouts. He starts to unravel the mystery behind Muriel’s disappearance, which leads him to shocking discoveries.

Ben learns that Muriel had initially left for a solo getaway. However, she faced serious health issues, including troubling blackouts that hinted at a dire diagnosis, indicating she may only have months to live.

With the weight of her diagnosis hanging over them, Sam and Muriel confront the unsettling reality of their mortality. This prompts them to reignite a love that had grown distant over the years.

Despite the circumstances, the summer becomes a poignant time for Ben to observe newfound happiness between his parents. This joy is reminiscent of their earlier days before Muriel's departure.

After Muriel's departure, Sam moves in with Ben and his family, cherishing their time together. This transitional period brings the family closer as they share precious moments filled with love.

Years later, Ben and Rachel celebrate the arrival of their son, Martin Samuel Kleinman. Named in honor of his beloved grandparents, this addition brings both joy and nostalgia to the family.

The grave marker for Muriel is adorned with a touching Hebrew phrase, symbolizing the infinite love and generosity that characterized Ben's parents' lifelong connection. It signifies that their bond transcends even death.