Review: Jake Lacy and Nazanin Boniadi are superb in ‘A Mosquito in the Ear’

Emmy-nominated actor Jake Lacy (“The White Lotus”) and Nazanin Boniadi star in the new film “A Mosquito in the Ear,” which opens in New York City on June 19th, and is currently playing in theaters in Los Angeles.

The film is based on the true story chronicled in Andrea Ferraris’ graphic novel of the same name. “A Mosquito in the Ear” follows Andrew (Jake Lacy) and Daniela (Nazanin Boniadi) as they travel to Goa, India to bring home their newly adopted four-year-old daughter, Sarvari (played by Ruhi Pal).

When Sarvari refuses to leave the only home she’s ever known, their long-awaited journey takes an unexpected turn—unraveling into a volatile, deeply human struggle marked by emotional upheaval, marital strain, and the unpredictable realities of forming a family.

The movie is directed and co-written by BAFTA newcomer Nicola Rinciari in as part of his directorial feature debut.

In “A Mosquito in the Ear,” the emotional core of the film rests squarely on the shoulders of Jake Lacy, Nazanin Boniadi, and newcomer Ruhi Pal. They all deliver career-highlight performances that are as nuanced as they are deeply affecting. The film follows an American couple navigating the unpredictable realities of international adoption, and Lacy and Boniadi bring remarkable authenticity to every moment of that journey. Ruhi Pal is adorable as the newly adopted daughter, in a true breakout role as Sarvari.

Jake Lacy gives one of his strongest performances to date as Andrew, capturing the hope, frustration, vulnerability, and quiet determination of a man whose vision of parenthood is challenged at every turn. He resists easy sentimentality, instead creating a character who feels wholly human—flawed, loving, and painfully sincere. Every glance and hesitation reveals another layer of emotional complexity.

Ironically enough, this role is completely different from his nefarious turn as the father (Peter) in “All Her Fault” on Peacock.

Nazanin Boniadi is equally extraordinary as Daniela. Her portrayal radiates intelligence, compassion, and emotional depth, grounding the film with a performance that is both powerful and understated. Boniadi navigates the character’s evolving fears and expectations with remarkable precision, making Daniela’s journey feel intensely personal and universally relatable. Her ability to communicate volumes through subtle expressions elevates even the film’s quietest scenes.

Together, Lacy and Boniadi share a natural, lived-in chemistry that makes their relationship utterly believable. Their interactions feel spontaneous and genuine, whether they’re expressing tenderness, frustration, or uncertainty. The film’s exploration of family, identity, and belonging succeeds largely because these two actors invest every scene with emotional truth. Writer and director Nicola Rinciari does an excellent job in bringing this story to life.

“A Mosquito in the Ear” is a poignant and insightful drama, but its greatest achievement is the work of Jake Lacy and Nazanin Boniadi; moreover, its a masterclass on subtle acting. Their performances transform an already compelling story into something unforgettable, creating a portrait of love and parenthood that lingers long after the credits roll. It garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.