(spoiler free)
The latest Netflix Original Film comes courtesy of American actress and screenwriter Lauren Miller. ‘Like Father’ is her first time in the directors chair and it’s Kristen Bell and Kelsey Grammer who star as her main characters. Rachel (Bell) is a career driven young woman who as a result of some peculiar circumstances is reunited with her estranged father, Harry (Grammer) as she maneuvers through an unexpected development in her hectic work focused life.
The overarching narrative here isn’t anything groundbreaking and does little to really intrigue audiences. Furthermore, several of the more specific elements to this story feel borrowed or recycled from other films and TV shows. The first act is largely dull and doesn’t fill you with much confidence for the rest of the film. It isn’t until the beginning of the second act and the introduction of some fun supporting characters that the film becomes more watchable. The addition of these characters lightens the tone and gives the picture a burst of energy that really is needed. From this point on a collection of montage sequences and more engaging scenes help to continue this momentum.
Riding the wave of this new found enthusiasm are the cast. Both Bell and Grammer are very believable in their roles and have a good chemistry both in their moments of friction and also when the tension between the pair eases. As a result the film manages to have some surprisingly touching moments, especially impressive if you’re anything like me and might not feel particularly invested in either character or their relationship as a whole. The supporting cast, which includes Miller’s hubby Seth Rogen, are vital in making us care for the main duo and their spirited performances of their caring characters is infectious helping connect the audience to the unfolding drama and central characters.
‘Like Father’ ends up being rather unremarkable but nonetheless a directorial debut which shows good potential for any future projects from Miller. Its lackluster start doesn’t set the tone well but a more entertaining mid section somewhat redeems the film. The cast are without a doubt the best thing about the film though, elevating the material at every turn. I can’t say I would reccomend it but, it’s watchable fare that if you find yourself viewing you probably won’t regret having sat through when the credits roll.
Written by Hamish Calvert
Rating – 5/10
Question: What are your favourite Father/Daughter film relationships?
(Leave your answers in the comments section below!)
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