Dear Dad (Movie)

Title — Dear Dad
Available on — Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, Hotstar
Production Country — India
Release Date — 2016
A father and son bond on an impromptu road trip over deep conversations, unexpected confessions, strange encounters ... and a drunken escapade.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

Dear Dad is a poignant and heartwarming tale that delves into the complex relationship between a father and his son. The story follows Nitin, played by Arvind Swamy, a 45-year-old man who decides to come out as gay to his son Shivam, portrayed by Himanshu Sharma, after years of marriage. This revelation leads to Nitin’s separation from his wife.

To bond with Shivam and have an honest conversation, Nitin takes him on an unexpected road trip from their home in Delhi to Shivam’s boarding school in Mussorie, Uttarakhand. The journey is filled with unexpected confessions, encounters with peculiar strangers, accidental meetings, a drunken escapade, and moments of self-discovery for both father and son.

As they navigate through the ups and downs of their relationship, Nitin and Shivam gradually come to terms with their own identities and emotions. The film beautifully captures the nuances of their evolving bond, highlighting themes of acceptance, love, and understanding amidst societal expectations and personal struggles.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Arvind Swamy, Himanshu Sharma, Ekavali Khanna, Aman Uppal, Bhavika Bhasin

Actor Role
Arvind Swamy Nitin Swaminathan
Himanshu Sharma Shivam Swaminathan
Ekavali Khanna Nupur Swaminathan
Indu Ramchandani Nitin’s Mom
Ranjith Thakur Nitin’s Father
Sonika Chopra Principal Sonika
Aman Uppal Aditya Taneja
Shivam Pradhan Baba Kaam Bengali
Bhavika Bhasin Vidhi Swaminathan
Raman Singh Rawat Guide
Chinmai Chandranshuh Arun
Ravneet Kler Ayush Deewan
Yugdeep Shivam’s friend
Abhijeet Shivam’s friend
Nishant Shivam’s friend
Piyush Raina Receptionist
Kanak Natasha
B Akshay Shubh Sharma
Aditya Suresh Young Shivam Swaminathan
Sidharth Bansal Young Shivam Swaminathan

💬 Reviews and feedback

Imagine being handed a bowl of popcorn, settling down on your couch, ready to dive into a movie that promises to tackle a challenging theme with grace and finesse. Well, “Dear Dad” takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as it delves into the complexities of acceptance and love in the face of societal norms.

The film opens with Nitin (played by the endearing Arvind Swamy) making a life-altering confession to his son Shivam (portrayed by Himanshu Sharma) after years of marriage – he is gay. This revelation sets the stage for a poignant exploration of relationships, identity, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself.

One of the standout aspects of “Dear Dad” is its delicate handling of a sensitive subject matter in a society that often struggles with acceptance. The narrative weaves through moments of vulnerability, heartache, and ultimately, understanding. The performances by Swamy and Sharma add layers of depth to their characters, capturing the essence of a father-son dynamic undergoing a profound shift.

  • Plot and Themes: The storyline unfolds organically, offering glimpses into the challenges faced by Nitin and Shivam as they navigate newfound territories within their relationship. The film touches upon themes of love, acceptance, and the importance of embracing one’s truth despite societal pressures.
  • Acting and Characters: Arvind Swamy’s portrayal of Nitin exudes elegance and vulnerability, while Himanshu Sharma brings raw emotion to his role as Shivam. Their on-screen chemistry elevates the emotional impact of the narrative, making it relatable and engaging.
  • Direction: The director’s nuanced approach shines through in capturing intimate moments between father and son, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the characters’ journeys. The pacing keeps viewers invested in the unfolding drama while maintaining a sense of authenticity.
  • Cinematography: The scenic backdrop adds an ethereal quality to the storytelling, enhancing pivotal scenes with visual splendor. The play of light and shadows mirrors the emotional turmoil within the characters, creating a visually captivating experience.

Binge-watching Tip: Keep tissues handy for those heartwarming moments that tug at your heartstrings!

“Dear Dad” may not have all the elements finely tuned to perfection; however, its sincerity and message resonate long after the credits roll. It serves as a gentle reminder that love knows no bounds and acceptance stems from understanding rather than judgment.

So grab your favorite movie snack, immerse yourself in this touching narrative, and let “Dear Dad” remind you that courage is not always loud but can be found in quiet moments of honesty.

Ratings: 8/10

In conclusion, “Dear Dad” is more than just a movie; it’s a mirror reflecting our own struggles with acceptance and authenticity. As you embark on this cinematic journey alongside Nitin and Shivam, may you find solace in knowing that love transcends all boundaries – even those set by society.

Pros Cons
Addresses a difficult theme in a culturally unaccepting society Poorly written script
Brave and fresh storytelling Lacks depth and substance
Strong performances by Arvind Swamy and Himanshu Sharma Story laid out too quickly
Bittersweet coming of age story Simple and boring narrative
Touches on the theme of love and acceptance Lacks material to deliver a profound message

Feedback

  • Dear Dad (2016 film) - Wikipedia

    Release date

    • 13 May 2016
    Country India Language Hindi

    Dear Dadis a 2016 drama film written and directed by Tanuj Bhramar. The film narrates the tale of a father-son duo – 14 year old Shivam (Himanshu Sharma), and his 45 year old dad Nitin (Arvind Swamy). The film released on 13 May 2016. This is the third Hindi film that Arvind Swamy has acted in.

  • Dear Dad (2016) - IMDb

    Dear Dad is a bittersweet coming of age story; involving a father-son duo 14 year old Shivam, and his 45 year old dad Nitin Swaminathan. The father-son duo embarks on an impromptu road trip … Read allDear Dad is a bittersweet coming of age story; involving a father-son duo 14 year old Shivam, and his 45 year old dad Nitin Swaminathan. The father-son duo embarks on an impromptu road trip from their home, in Delhi, to Mussorie (Uttarakhand), where Shivam attends boarding school… Read allDear Dad is a bittersweet coming of age story; involving a father-son duo 14 year old Shivam, and his 45 year old dad Nitin Swaminathan. The father-son duo embarks on an impromptu road trip from their home, in Delhi, to Mussorie (Uttarakhand), where Shivam attends boarding school. Unexpected confessions, weird strangers, accidental meetings, a drunken escapade and sin… Read all

  • Dear Dad - Movie Reviews | Rotten Tomatoes

    Full Review | Original Score: 2/5 | Dec 8, 2017The slow and steady passage from love to hatred and pride would have been a profound and poignant journey that the film doesn’t quite embark on. It’s in too much of a hurry to reach nowhere.Full Review | Dec 8, 2017Dear Dad deserves a watch simply for the profound point it makes about accepting people for who they are and loving them unconditionally.Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 8, 2017Go watch this short, sensitive film that gives out the message that parenthood has nothing to do with one’s sexuality. That all every family needs is a little more love to make the scars heal

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

Hey there, movie buffs! Let’s dive into the intriguing world of ‘Dear Child,’ a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Directed by Isabel Kleefeld and Julian Pörksen, this German-language mini-series is based on Romy Hausmann’s novel and follows the gripping story of Lena, a mother living with her two children, Hannah and Jonathan, in a high-security residence.

The series kicks off with Lena and her kids leading a secluded life, following strict rules enforced by their enigmatic “Papa.” While the children obediently adhere to these rules, Lena often faces punishment for transgressions. Everything takes a dramatic turn when Lena, in a desperate attempt to escape, gets hit by a car and ends up in the hospital with Hannah.

As Detective Aida Kurt delves into the hit-and-run case, shocking revelations begin to unfold. Nurse Ruth, caring for Hannah, uncovers Lena’s past violent actions. The investigation leads to the discovery of Jonathan at their home with a deceased, disfigured body believed to be the children’s father. The plot thickens as Lena’s true identity surfaces – she is actually Jasmin Grass, abducted by “Papa” and coerced into playing the role of a mother to Hannah and Jonathan.

Following a series of twists and turns, Lena/Jasmin is released from the hospital, haunted by a persistent voice in her head. Meanwhile, Matthias Beck, convinced that Hannah is his long-lost granddaughter, takes her under his wing. Aida and Gerd uncover more mysteries, linking the case to Lena’s past disappearance and a string of chilling discoveries near a military complex.

Now, the burning question – who is “Papa,” and does Jasmin manage to break free from his clutches? The narrative unfolds with gripping suspense as the truth behind “Papa” and Jasmin’s fate unravels. The tension escalates as a mysterious figure lurks in the shadows, casting a shadow of uncertainty over Jasmin, Hannah, and Jonathan’s lives.

With a blend of psychological depth and nail-biting suspense, ‘Dear Child’ delivers a riveting tale of survival, identity, and the dark secrets that bind a fractured family together. Strap in for a rollercoaster ride of emotions and revelations as the characters navigate a web of deception and danger in their quest for freedom and truth.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-14

Age Rating:

Dear Dad (2016) has been rated as UA (Parental Guidance suggested for children below the age of 12).

Parental Guide:

Dear Dad is a bittersweet coming-of-age story that revolves around a father-son duo – 14-year-old Shivam and his 45-year-old dad, Nitin Swaminathan. The movie involves themes of family relationships, self-discovery, and acceptance.

Sex & Nudity:

The movie contains no explicit sexual content or nudity. There are no scenes of a sexual nature that would be inappropriate for young viewers.

Violence & Gore:

There are no intense or graphic violent scenes in the movie. The film focuses more on emotional and familial conflicts rather than physical violence.

Profanity:

There is minimal use of profanity in the movie. Occasional mild language may be present, but it is not pervasive or strong.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:

There are scenes depicting alcohol consumption, but it is not glorified. The context is more about characters dealing with personal issues rather than promoting substance abuse.

Frightening & Intense Scenes:

There are no specific frightening or intense scenes in the movie. The focus is on the emotional journey of the characters rather than creating suspense or fear-inducing moments.

Overall, Dear Dad is a heartfelt and emotional film that can be enjoyed by older children and teenagers under parental guidance. It offers a touching exploration of family dynamics and personal growth without containing content that would be unsuitable for young viewers.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Amazon Prime Video Currently you are able to watch ‘Dear Dad’ streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel, Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel or for free with ads on Hotstar.
Lionsgate Play Currently you are able to watch ‘Dear Dad’ streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel, Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel or for free with ads on Hotstar.
Hotstar Currently you are able to watch ‘Dear Dad’ streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel, Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel or for free with ads on Hotstar.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • No one in this world can love a girl more than her father.
    Michael Ratnadeepak
  • The first man in your daughter's life is her father, and she needs your trust more than anything, don't deny her that.
    Unknown
  • To a father growing old, nothing is dearer than a daughter.
    Euripides

🤖Dear Dad Reddit Talks

General Reception and Themes:

  • “Dear Dad…” is a short film that has resonated with viewers, prompting discussions about violence against women and the lasting impact of trauma.

Impact of Trauma:

  • Many viewers identified with the film’s portrayal of the psychological toll of abuse, including feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation.
  • The film highlights the importance of seeking help and breaking the cycle of silence surrounding domestic violence.

Perpetrators of Abuse:

  • The film challenges the notion that perpetrators of abuse are always strangers, emphasizing that they can be close family members or loved ones.
  • It sheds light on the manipulative tactics and power dynamics that abusers often employ.

Role of the Father Figure:

  • The film’s title, “Dear Dad…,” suggests a complex relationship between the protagonist and her father.
  • Some viewers expressed empathy for the father character, acknowledging that he may have been a victim of his own trauma.
  • Others criticized the father’s inaction and failure to protect his daughter, highlighting the responsibility of parents in preventing and addressing abuse.

Cultural Perspectives:

  • The film sparks conversations about the cultural factors that contribute to domestic violence, such as patriarchal norms and the stigma surrounding reporting abuse.
  • Viewers shared their experiences navigating these cultural barriers and emphasized the need for societal change.

Emotional Responses:

  • The film evokes strong emotions, including sadness, anger, and a sense of empowerment.
  • Many viewers expressed gratitude for the film’s ability to raise awareness and validate their own experiences of abuse.
  • Some viewers also discussed the importance of self-care and seeking professional help to process the emotions the film elicits.

Call to Action:

  • The film inspires viewers to take action against domestic violence, both on a personal and societal level.
  • Viewers encouraged others to educate themselves, support victims, and advocate for policies that protect women and children.
  • They emphasized the need for a collective effort to break the cycle of violence and create a safer world for all.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of the movie Dear Dad?

The movie “Dear Dad” deals with the sensitive theme of a father coming out as gay to his family, particularly to his teenage son, and explores the challenges and acceptance surrounding this revelation.

Who are the main characters in the movie Dear Dad?

The main characters in the movie “Dear Dad” include Nitin Swaminathan (played by Arvind Swamy), his son Shivam Swaminathan (played by Himanshu Sharma), and Nupur Swaminathan (played by Ekavali Khanna).

What is the storyline of Dear Dad?

“Dear Dad” follows the journey of Nitin Swaminathan, a father who decides to reveal his homosexuality to his son, Shivam. The movie portrays their road trip from Delhi to Mussorie and the emotional complexities that arise as their relationship evolves.

Where can I stream the movie Dear Dad online?

You can watch “Dear Dad” streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, or Hotstar. The movie presents a bittersweet coming-of-age story focusing on a father-son relationship and their journey of acceptance.

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