🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the heartwarming drama “Dad Movie,” viewers are taken on an emotional journey as they witness the evolution of relationships within a family facing unexpected challenges. The story centers around John, a successful and work-focused businessman, who is forced to confront his priorities and reconnect with his elderly father, Jake, after his mother, Bette, suffers a heart attack.
As John rushes back home to be by his mother’s side, he finds himself stepping into the role of caretaker for his father, whom he has grown estranged from over the years. Despite initial awkwardness and resistance, John and Jake gradually begin to bond as they navigate the daily routines and challenges of life together.
With the arrival of John’s college-aged son, Billy, the dynamics within the family shift once again, providing an opportunity for three generations to come together and rediscover the importance of family ties. Through shared experiences and moments of vulnerability, John, Jake, and Billy find common ground and a newfound sense of connection.
As the family starts to find a sense of normalcy and hope for the future, a sudden turn of events shatters their newfound peace. Jake undergoes a routine surgery that unexpectedly leaves him demented and a mere shadow of his former self. The devastating impact of this unforeseen outcome tests the strength of the family bonds they had worked so hard to rebuild.
Amidst the turmoil and heartbreak, John is faced with the harsh reality of his father’s decline and the fragility of life. The once estranged father and son must now navigate uncharted territory as they grapple with the challenges of Jake’s deteriorating health and the profound loss of the man he once was.
“Dad Movie” poignantly captures the complexities of family relationships, the power of reconciliation, and the enduring love that transcends life’s trials and tribulations. Through moments of laughter, tears, and shared memories, the film reminds audiences of the preciousness of time spent with loved ones and the profound impact of coming together in times of adversity.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Jack Lemmon, Ted Danson, Olympia Dukakis, Kathy Baker, Kevin Spacey, Ethan Hawke, Zakes Mokae, J.T. Walsh, Peter Michael Goetz, John Apicella, Richard McGonagle, Bill Morey, Mary Fogarty
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Jack Lemmon | Jake Tremont |
| Ted Danson | John Tremont |
| Olympia Dukakis | Bette Tremont |
| Kathy Baker | Annie Tremont |
| Kevin Spacey | Mario |
| Ethan Hawke | Billy Tremont |
| Zakes Mokae | Dr. Chad |
| J. T. Walsh | Dr. Santana |
| Peter Michael Goetz | Dr. Ethridge |
| Richard McGonagle | Victor Walton |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Hey there, movie buffs! Grab your popcorn and settle in because we’re about to dive into the heartwarming world of “Dad,” the 1989 American comedy-drama film that tugs at your heartstrings and tickles your funny bone.
Imagine this: You walk into a cinema, expecting a typical family drama, but as soon as Ted Danson hoists his father out of the hospital, reality takes a backseat, and fantasy takes the wheel. That’s the rollercoaster ride you’re in for with “Dad.”
The movie, directed by Gary David Goldberg, boasts an ensemble cast including Jack Lemmon, Ted Danson, Olympia Dukakis, Kathy Baker, Kevin Spacey, and Ethan Hawke. Based on William Wharton’s novel of the same name, “Dad” weaves a tale that feels so authentic that it hits you right in the feels.
Plot and Themes:
- Father-Son Dynamics: The core of “Dad” revolves around the complex relationship between fathers and sons. It delves into themes of aging, family dynamics, and the bittersweet journey of growing old together.
- Emotional Depth: The movie doesn’t shy away from tugging at your heartstrings. It’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and reconciliation that resonates with anyone who has experienced the joys and struggles of family life.
- Reality vs. Fantasy: With a touch of whimsy and fantasy elements sprinkled throughout the narrative, “Dad” offers a unique blend of realism and escapism that keeps you hooked till the very end.
Binge-watching Tip: Keep those tissues handy because this one’s bound to elicit some tears along with laughter!
Acting and Characters:
The stellar cast delivers powerhouse performances that breathe life into their characters:
- Jack Lemmon: A masterclass in acting as always, Lemmon brings depth and nuance to his portrayal of an aging father grappling with his mortality.
- Ted Danson: Danson shines as the caring son who undergoes a transformative journey as he navigates his father’s illness and rediscovers their bond.
- Olympia Dukakis: Her portrayal adds layers to the narrative, providing insights into the complexities of familial relationships.
Cinematography and Production Design:
- Aesthetic Appeal: The visuals in “Dad” are evocative and immersive, capturing both the mundane moments of daily life and the poignant exchanges between characters.
- Sets and Locations: The attention to detail in recreating domestic spaces lends authenticity to the storytelling, grounding it in a familiar yet nostalgic setting.
Binge-watching Tip: Pay close attention to how each frame is composed; there are subtle visual cues that enhance the emotional impact of key scenes!
Direction and Score:
- Gary David Goldberg: The director deftly navigates between moments of levity and poignancy, striking a delicate balance that keeps viewers emotionally invested throughout.
- Musical Score: The soundtrack complements the narrative beautifully, underscoring pivotal moments with melodies that tug at your heartstrings.
Film Editing and Pace:
The editing in “Dad” maintains a seamless flow between past memories and present realities. The pace is steady yet engaging, allowing viewers to savor each emotional beat without feeling rushed or dragged along.
Dialouge & Special Effects
The dialogues are crisp delivering impactful emotions through conversations bringing out real-life experiences effectively. Special effects are not overdone but subtly used adding magic to certain scenes.
In conclusion,
“Dad” is more than just a movie; it’s a heartfelt journey that celebrates love in all its forms—love between fathers & sons; love amidst struggles; love found in unexpected places.
So grab your loved ones (especially dad) for an emotional rollercoaster ride filled with laughter & tears!
Rating: 9/10
Remember folks: Life may be unpredictable like this movie but cherish every moment like it’s golden!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Authentic portrayal of family dynamics | Lack of emotion in some parts |
| Touches the audience emotionally | Flies off into fantasy, abandoning realism |
| Strong performances by the cast | The grown-up son’s character portrayal criticized |
| Deals with challenges of old age and long marriage | Some scenes may lack authenticity |
| Based on a novel adding depth to the storyline | Some viewers might find it lacking in social consciousness |
Feedback
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Dad (1989 film) - Wikipedia
- October 27, 1989
Running time
117 minutes Country United States Language English Budget $19 million Box office $27 million Dadis a 1989 American comedy-drama film written and directed by Gary David Goldberg and starring Jack Lemmon, Ted Danson, Olympia Dukakis, Kathy Baker, Kevin Spacey and Ethan Hawke. It is based on William Wharton’s novel of the same name. The original music score was composed by James Horner. The film was produced by Amblin Entertainment and distributed by Universal Pictures.
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Dad movie review & film summary (1989) | Roger Ebert
“Dad” is a case of a movie with too much enthusiasm for its own good. If the filmmakers had only been willing to dial down a little, they would have had the materials for an emotionally moving story, instead of one that generates incredulity. The proof of the movie’s promise is in the opening scenes, which work powerfully. The film doesn’t go bad all at once; it derails about halfway through The story involves an elderly married couple (Jack Lemmon and Olympia Dukakis) whose lives have settled into a rigid routine. She does everything – even squeezing the toothpaste onto his brush in the morning – and he has grown completely dependent on her. Then one day, during their ritualistic trip to the supermarket, she has a heart attack and is rushed to the hospital. Suddenly Dad is on his own.
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Dad (1989) Theatrical Trailer - YouTube
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Dad streaming: where to watch movie online? - JustWatch
Dad streaming: where to watch online?
You can buy “Dad” on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu as download or rent it on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu online.Watch NowPROMOTEDWatch similar movies on Apple TV+ for free7 Days FreeThen $9.99 / monthCCHDPG117min – EnglishRent$3.99CCPG117min – EnglishRent$3.99CCPG117min – EnglishRent$3.99CCHDPG117min – EnglishRent$3.99CCHDPG117min – EnglishRent$4.29CCHD
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the movie “Dad Movie,” also known as “Trigger Warning,” the story revolves around Special Forces commando Parker, played by Jessica Alba, who returns to her hometown after her father’s death. Her father, Harry, was believed to have died in a mining accident, but Parker suspects foul play. As she investigates, she uncovers an illegal arms deal involving the corrupt Swann family – Senator Ezekiel Swann and his sons Elvis and Jesse.
Parker discovers that her father knew about Elvis using the mine for illegal arms deals and decided to stop him by blowing up the mine. Jesse, Parker’s ex-boyfriend and sheriff, shot Harry in an attempt to prevent the explosion, leading to Harry pulling the grenade pin as he died, causing the collapse. The Swann family, especially Elvis, was involved in trading stolen weapons and had a deal with a wanted terrorist named Ghost.
As the story unfolds, Ghost arrives in town to claim the weapons he paid for, leading to a showdown in the mine. With the help of her Special Forces partner Spider and friend Mikey, Parker confronts the terrorists, taking down Elvis and Ghost. Jesse, consumed by guilt over Harry’s death, sacrifices himself by blowing up with a grenade.
Before the final confrontation, Parker confronts Ezekiel to uncover the truth about her father’s death. While Ezekiel denies killing Harry directly, it is implied that Parker seeks revenge by potentially killing Ezekiel off-screen. The movie ends with a news report mentioning the demise of the Swann family, indicating that Ezekiel, Elvis, and Jesse are all dead.
The movie “Dad Movie” delivers a mix of action, suspense, and revenge as Parker unravels the conspiracy behind her father’s death and takes down the corrupt individuals responsible. With intense action sequences and a satisfying conclusion, the film keeps viewers engaged until the final moments.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
PG
Age Rating:
The movie “Dad” is rated PG-13 for parents to consider. Common Sense Media recommends the movie for viewers aged 15 and above due to smoking and language content.
Parental Guide:
“Dad” is a heartfelt 1989 movie that tells the story of a busy executive who becomes his father’s caretaker and reconnects with his family. Here’s a detailed parental guide to help you decide if this movie is suitable for your child:
Sex & Nudity:
- The movie contains mild romantic scenes with no nudity.
- A character is briefly shown in a swimsuit at a pool, but there are no explicit scenes.
Violence & Gore:
- There are emotional scenes involving family relationships but no intense violence or gore.
- Some arguments and confrontations occur between characters, but they are not graphic.
Profanity:
- The movie includes occasional mild language and some instances of cursing.
- There are a few instances of profanity and derogatory language used in frustration or emotional moments.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:
- Characters are shown drinking alcohol in social settings, but there are no instances of substance abuse.
- Smoking is depicted in the movie, primarily by adult characters in casual settings.
Frightening & Intense Scenes:
- The movie focuses on themes of family, aging, and reconciliation, which may be emotional for some viewers.
- There are no explicitly frightening or intense scenes, but the emotional depth of the story could be impactful.
Overall, “Dad” is a touching film that explores the complexities of family relationships and the importance of connection. Parents may find it suitable for mature teenagers aged 15 and above due to the themes and some mild language and smoking depicted in the movie.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| YouTube | The movie ‘Dad’ is available on YouTube Academy Award-winners Jack Lemmon, Olympia Dukakis, Kevin Spacey, Ted Danson, and Ethan Hawke star in this heartwarming drama about redemption and forgiveness. |
| Movies Anywhere | You can purchase ‘Dad’ on Movies Anywhere to stream instantly or download offline. The movie features Academy Award winners Jack Lemmon, Olympia Dukakis, Kevin Spacey, Ted Danson, and Ethan Hawke in a story about redemption, forgiveness, and family. |
| Amazon Video | You can buy or rent ‘Dad’ on Amazon Video. The movie portrays a busy executive who becomes his father’s caretaker, leading to a deeper understanding of family relationships. |
| Google Play Movies | You can buy or rent ‘Dad’ on Google Play Movies. The film follows a busy executive who reconnects with his father while caring for him, prompting reflections on life and family. |
| YouTube | The movie ‘Dad’ is available for purchase or rent on YouTube. The storyline revolves around a busy executive who learns valuable lessons about family and relationships while caring for his father. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
You will be different, sometimes you'll feel like an outcast, but you'll never be alone. You will make my strength your own. You will see my life through your eyes, as your life will be seen through mine. The son becomes the father and the father becomes the son.
No drinking, no drugs, no kissing, no tattoos, no piercings, no ritual animal slaughters of any kind. Oh God, I'm giving them ideas.
Don't let your mother smell that beer on your breath.
🤖Dad Reddit Talks
Dad Movie Summary
What is a ‘Dad Movie’?
A ‘dad movie’ is typically a film that appeals to the demographic of fathers. These movies often feature themes of competence, teamwork, and action, with relatable characters that resonate with dads. They may also include elements of humor, nostalgia, and heartwarming moments. Some popular examples of ‘dad movies’ include “Days of Thunder,” “Top Gun,” and “Tommy Boy.”
Is ‘Bad Dad’ a ‘Dad Movie’?
The movie ‘Bad Dad’ follows a boy named Frank whose father is imprisoned for his involvement in a bank robbery. Frank devises a plan to break his father out of prison so they can return the stolen money. While the film does not explicitly fall into the traditional ‘dad movie’ genre, it does share some common elements, such as themes of fatherhood, redemption, and the importance of family.
Reviews and Opinions
Reviews for ‘Bad Dad’ have been mixed. Some viewers have praised the film for its heartwarming story and strong performances, while others have criticized its predictable plot and lack of originality. Despite the mixed reviews, ‘Bad Dad’ has generally been well-received by audiences and has been praised for its positive message about fatherhood.
Topics Discussed on Reddit
On Reddit, users have engaged in various discussions about ‘Bad Dad’ and ‘dad movies’ in general. Some of the topics that have been discussed include:
- The definition of a ‘dad movie’ and what makes a movie appealing to dads
- The role of fathers in movies and how they are portrayed
- The importance of family and relationships in movies
- Nostalgia and the appeal of ‘dad movies’ for older generations
- The impact of ‘dad movies’ on popular culture
Conclusion
‘Bad Dad’ is a film that has sparked discussions about the nature of ‘dad movies’ and the role of fathers in movies. While the film may not perfectly fit into the traditional ‘dad movie’ genre, it does share some common elements and themes that appeal to dads. Reviews for ‘Bad Dad’ have been mixed, but the film has generally been well-received by audiences. On Reddit, users have engaged in various discussions about ‘Bad Dad’ and ‘dad movies’ in general, exploring topics such as the definition of a ‘dad movie,’ the role of fathers in movies, and the importance of family and relationships in movies.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/195r4u0/what_in_your_opinion_constitutes_a_dad_movie/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/1b4mtqc/dad_movies/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/MovieSuggestions/comments/14gx51z/whats_modernday_dad_movie/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/e1h554/introducing_the_dad_movie_hall_of_fame/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/1ddprm3/whats_your_definition_of_a_dad_movie/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the movie Dad about?
The movie Dad is a 1989 American comedy-drama film written and directed by Gary David Goldberg. It stars Jack Lemmon, Ted Danson, Olympia Dukakis, Kathy Baker, Kevin Spacey, and Ethan Hawke. The story is based on William Wharton’s novel of the same name.
What is the main storyline of Dad (1989)?
In Dad (1989), businessman John Tremont, played by Ted Danson, puts his busy life on hold to take care of his defiant and aging father, Jake, portrayed by Jack Lemmon, while his mother is in the hospital recovering from a heart attack.
Why is Dad considered a heartwarming movie?
Dad is considered a heartwarming movie because it portrays the challenges and complexities of family relationships, particularly between fathers and sons. It delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the importance of family bonds.
Who are the main actors in the movie Dad (1989)?
The main actors in Dad (1989) include Jack Lemmon as Jake Tremont, Ted Danson as John Tremont, Olympia Dukakis as Bette Tremont, Kathy Baker as Annie, and Kevin Spacey as Mario.
What makes a movie a ‘Dad Movie’?
A ‘Dad Movie’ typically refers to a film that focuses on themes related to fatherhood, family dynamics, and personal growth. These movies often portray heartfelt stories that resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Where can I watch the movie Dad online?
You can watch the movie Dad online on platforms like Movies Anywhere. The film stars Jack Lemmon, Ted Danson, Olympia Dukakis, Kevin Spacey, and Ethan Hawke in a touching story about family, redemption, and forgiveness.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Father of the Bride: A father navigates the challenges of planning his daughter’s wedding.
- Big Daddy: A man unexpectedly becomes the guardian of a young boy.
- Parenthood: The joys and struggles of being a parent in a large extended family.
- The Pursuit of Happyness: A father strives to build a better future for his son despite facing hardships.
- Cheaper by the Dozen: A family comedy about a couple with 12 children.
- Fences: A father’s complex relationship with his family in 1950s Pittsburgh.
- Finding Nemo: An animated adventure where a father searches for his lost son.
- He Got Game: A basketball player’s complicated relationship with his father.
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