The only movie you need to watch this Father’s Day: ‘Fatherhood’
If you’re someone who’s in their late twenties, you’re probably learning to gulp down the bitter pill of living in a rapidly changing world. But you know who’s having an even harder time than yourself? Your old-school dad, who should be the centre of your attention this Father’s Day when you search your Netflix watchlist for that perfect watch.
Although the Netflix library isn’t exactly short of titles that serve the cause, if we’re to settle on just one, Paul Weitz’s Fatherhood is widely considered a staple for Father’s Day for a reason. It serves as the sincerest, emotionally resonant tribute to the dedication required to be a parent.
While Fatherhood features Kevin Hart’s trademark humour, the comedy drama’s core appeal lies in its exploration of the tougher side of fatherhood. Based on Matthew Logelin’s memoir Two Kisses for Maddy: A Memoir of Loss and Love, the heartfelt drama follows grieving husband Matt, who becomes a single parent after his wife unexpectedly passes away the day after giving birth to their daughter, Maddy.
As Matt is thrust into a crash course in single fatherhood, he learns to navigate grief, societal scepticism, and work-life balance, enduring countless sleepless nights and dirty diapers, while realising the need for social isolation as he learns to care for an infant on his own.
While Fatherhood is frequently cited as a refreshing departure from the movie tropes that often portray fathers as bumbling or absent, the story also has a real-life premise, adding a genuine gravity and emotional weight that may resonate with many fathers who have faced challenges or sacrifices in their own parenting journeys.
The new-dad mishaps keep the tone of the film light-hearted, but the beauty of Fatherhood lies in its microscopic detailing of the father-daughter relationship. From first steps to school events, the comedy drama celebrates the quiet, proud moments that result from the daily grind of showing up for your child.
It’s understandable if you’re worried about going overly emotional with your Father’s Day pick. However, the best part of Fatherhood lies in its striking balance of tone that will leave you uplifted and appreciative instead.
So, if you want a movie that celebrates the sheer effort and love involved in raising a child, Fatherhood is honestly a great pick. While it might tear you and your dad up a little, at least, they’d be happy tears!