They are the Controlling Stones -- a close-knit New England family, not a rock group -- but the intrusion of an outsider at Christmas seems very much beyond their control.

Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney, left) introduces his girlfriend Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker) to his father Kelly (Craig T. Nelson), mother Sybil (Diane Keaton) and sister Amy (Rachel McAdams), in THE FAMILY STONE. "THE FAMILY STONE" Rating: PG-13 for some sexual content and drug references Starring: Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Luke Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Claire Danes Director: Thomas Bezucha "The Family Stone" Web site Post-Gazette Family Film Guide review of "The Family Stone"

The invader is Sarah Jessica Parker, girlfriend of the eldest son of "The Family Stone." Their home is a well-defended castle under the command of matriarch Diane Keaton. Their movie is a fine holiday comedy-drama under the command of director Thomas Bezucha.

A little Massachusetts moss has gathered beneath the senior Stones (Keaton and Craig T. Nelson). She's not feeling her best, and he's a little long in the academic tooth. But their energy and empty nest are replenished with the annual presence of five offspring and assorted significant others.

Most significant of the others is Meredith (Parker), the high-powered New York career woman who is involved with quiet Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney). His nonconformist folks and siblings -- especially beautiful sister Amy (Rachel McAdams) -- take a quick dislike to her, which escalates with nervous Meredith's foot-in-mouth disease. Only laid-back Ben Stone (Luke Wilson), fresh in from the West Coast, tries to give her a break, but nobody pays much attention to Ben -- including Meredith.

The Family Stone considers itself very inclusive, lavishing affection on youngest son Thad (Tyrone Giordano), who's deaf, and on his gay partner, who's black. But in this glass house, Meredith throws the Stones for a loop. "You have a freak flag, Meredith -- don't fly it!" she is advised. Even her hair is clenched, and she is so miserably Stoned with disapproval that she summons her sister Julie (Claire Danes) for support.

That disrupts an indelicate balance even further, as everybody assembles for the gala Christmas Eve feast -- the film's fabulous set piece. Keaton is always riveting, but has never been better than in her efforts to referee the conversation (and the vibes) during this hilarious table scene. Subtle one moment, brittle the next, her characterization is a perfect oxymoronic combination of sensitivity and intolerance. And next morning, presiding over the disasters of Christmas Day in her ratty bathrobe and slippers, she personifies nothing less than a geriatric, maternal Annie Hall.

Keaton has a lot to do with the playful chemistry and comfort level of "Family Stone's" impressive ensemble acting overall. But Parker is a terrific foil as the odd-woman-out, while Danes (without looking or acting even remotely like her sister) manages the tough job of romantic catalyst that's assigned to her.

Give credit where it's due to director-writer Bezucha, especially considering his dearth of previous movies ("Big Eden," an offbeat romantic drama of rural Montana, is the only one I know, saw and loved, back in 2000). Bezucha's real background is in fashion (eight years with Ralph Lauren, inventing window and interior designs), which explains his attention to detail in the storybook, snow-covered, evocative views of the Stones' quaint Yankee village here.

Don't be misled by the too-cute trailers that make "Family Stone" look like "Meet the Parents II" or "III." Though we've seen other fiances and fiancees succumb to zany would-be in-laws before, the members of this family are more soulful than silly (except for a slapstick food finale, more appropriate to the Stooges or John Belushi, that should have been axed).

Overall, the big and little chills of this tale are more touching than comic -- perfect for the season. When the gorgeous face and voice of Judy Garland from the little screen fills the big one with "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," few eyes can remain dry. By the sentimental, bittersweet but satisfying conclusion, none of these Stones' holiday issues are left unturned.