The Joneses

"The Joneses" is a captivating 2016 documentary that chronicles the riveting and at times, heartrending journey of a unique family. Directed and written by Moby Longinotto, this American film casts ordinary people in an extraordinary light: the members of the Jones family portrayed by Jheri Jones, Trevor Jones, Brad Jones, Wade Jones, and Nick Jones, highlighting their courage, resilience, and audacity to choose authenticity.

One of the most salient and poignant elements of 'The Joneses' centers around Jheri Jones, the matriarch of this Mississippi family: a 74-year-old transgender woman who at once defies and redefines preconceived biases, societal expectations, and stereotypes. Jheri serves as the main subject of the documentary and her forthright recounting of her life, transition, and parenting provides the axle on which the narrative wheel spins.

In addition to focusing on Jheri Jones' empowering personal narrative, 'The Joneses' also gives viewers a peek into the lives of her four adult sons: Trevor, Brad, Wade, and Nick. This fascinating, formidable family features an abundance of dynamics that fuel the emotional force of the film. The main story arc navigates through the interpersonal relationships within the family, showcasing the familial interactions ranging from lighthearted and playful to deeply emotional and introspective.

Each of her sons has a powerful story of his own: dealing with personal and relationship struggles, life-changing health issues, and also the realization of their mother's true identity. Wade, Brad, and Trevor Jones vividly share their personal journeys, escorting viewers along their paths that include overcoming obstacles and finding personal acceptance. The youngest, Nick Jones, is more reserved in the film, yet his journey still provides a compelling narrative layer to the film.

"The Joneses" shines a spotlight on the subject of identity in both individual and collective senses. The Jones family, with their unconventional structure and dynamics, defy societal norms about typical families, prompting viewers to reassess habitual understandings of both family and identity. Furthermore, the film does a wonderful job of portraying the experiences of a transgender person and their family in a mostly conservative Southern setting. This exploration of acceptance and identity in the face of societal norms makes the story of "The Joneses" particularly significant and profound.

As the storyline progresses, we see an emphasis on elements of self-revelation, personal change and acceptance that carry valuable messages to the viewer. It brings to the surface the complexities of being true to oneself while navigating relationships within the family unit. The endearing vulnerability of the Joneses coupled with their unwavering solidarity paints a vivid portrait of the power of love, acceptance, and perseverance.

Balancing sensitive themes with enough humor and hope to prevent it from tipping over into heavy-handedness, the film transports us into day-to-day life and unwinds familial interactions slowly and deliberately, prompting the viewer towards introspection and ultimately a more profound understanding of the human experience.

"The Joneses" has been acclaimed for its honest, insightful depiction of a unique family's journey. It has won accolades such as the 'Directors to Watch' award at the 2016 Palm Springs International Film Festival. It is a testament to the power of authenticity and the unyielding bond of family love that transcends societal norms and expectations.

The unique children and equally unique matriarch of the Jones family allow the movie "The Joneses" to transcend conventional documentary formats, resulting in a powerful, poignant and inspirational testament to the human spirit. Through the story of the Jones family and their individual and collective journeys, we are reminded that at the core of each of us, irrespective of gender identities or societal norms, is a shared human essence that connects us all. It's a film that resonates long after the credits roll, encouraging us to question our own perspectives and to truly appreciate the multi-faceted complexities of the human experience.