MASS

“Mass” is a 2021 drama film directed by Fran Kranz in his directorial debut. The film stars Jason Isaacs, Martha Plimpton, Reed Birney, and Ann Dowd in an ensemble cast.
Set in a nondescript church basement, the film centers on a meeting between two sets of parents: Jay and Gail (played by Jason Isaacs and Martha Plimpton), whose son was killed in a school shooting, and Richard and Linda (played by Reed Birney and Ann Dowd), the parents of the shooter.

As the two couples gather in this emotionally charged space, tensions run high as they attempt to navigate their grief, anger, and guilt. The conversation oscillates between moments of raw honesty and defensive posturing as each parent struggles to come to terms with their role in the tragedy and grapples with questions of forgiveness and redemption.

Jay and Gail, still reeling from the loss of their son, seek answers and closure from Richard and Linda, desperate to understand what drove their child to commit such a heinous act. Meanwhile, Richard and Linda grapple with their own feelings of shame and remorse, wrestling with the knowledge that their son’s actions have irreparably changed the lives of others.

As the meeting progresses, the four parents confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and their society, touching on themes of gun violence, mental health, and the complexities of parenthood. Despite their differences, they find moments of connection and empathy, realizing they are all victims of a more significant systemic failure.
“Mass” is a powerful exploration of grief, forgiveness, and the human capacity for compassion. Through its intimate and emotionally charged performances, the film offers a poignant meditation on the ripple effects of tragedy and the potential for healing in the face of unimaginable loss.