The message of the superficial film is simple. That our life eventually 'flows', and that all human relationships and moments of happiness formed in the process are precious and beautiful. In addition, regardless of race, everyone goes through a tunnel of similar growth and distress.
Conversely, a closer look reveals an additional topic of depth: 'The role and dissolution of the family, and the impact it can have on a person'. Mason's mother, Olivia, has experienced a total of three marriages and divorces, including Mason Sr. With the exception of her first husband, Mason Sr., all alcoholics and authoritarian fathers, she is not accustomed to communication and harmony within society's most rudimentary subgroups: the family. Naturally, the number of horses decreases and the character of an exoskeleton is formed. Fortunately, Mason Sr., despite being the first member of the disbanded family, continues to support his son so that he can grow up properly. Traveling together, eating together, and having friendly conversations, they play a huge role in unlocking the potential and artistic sensibility of a Mason.
Thanks to this, Mason can pioneer his own future of 'photography' and spend time with friends without hesitation. After all, paternal love is not a grandiose thing. That it can have a 'positive influence' on the children who should grow up receiving my love. With that alone, it can be said that the father's role has already been completed. Linklater seems to be the reason for highlighting Mason Sr. as an important character. It boldly emphasizes how much true communication with children can have a great impact on the formation of personality, and that a family is a MIND-CONNECTED group even though it is physically separated.
Another interesting thing is when the leadership within the family changes. Samantha and Mason, who have grown up for 12 years, leave the space of home for their own lives. At this time, the lines Olivia spit out were parts that I, who had not yet become a father, could easily relate to. I can't forget how she suddenly burst into tears and said, 'I knew there was something more.' I have lived fiercely for my family, but in the end I am alone. Olivia, whose heart speed has become empty like her empty house, now walks the path of her decline. As she goes through life, there are times when everyone wants to deny the situation and what will happen in the future. However, it won't be as painful as the moment when it 'feels' as if my country's existence was no longer important to my family.
Either way, time goes by. In order not to waste our finite life, we have no choice but to change ourselves. Being with the flowing moments while accepting the belief that it is a 'new beginning' rather than an 'end', and the affirmation of 'connection' rather than the negation of 'dissolution'. That is the only way for everyday life and romance to coexist. In that sense, the dialogue between the two men and women at the end of the movie is impressive. It simply explains the truth that life is a series of moments.
It's not like we're holding the moment, it's the moment holding us