Netflix’s Fatherhood – An Unoriginal Dramedy (Early Review)

Fatherhood tells the story of Matthew Logelin (Hart), a man whose wife dies right after the birth of their first child Maddy (Melody Hurd). Not mentally ready or capable to single-handedly raise a child, the story saw Logelin take on the challenge. From there, his world is turned upside down but nevertheless, he is determined to persevere for the love of his daughter and family.

The best part about Fatherhood, and the only thing that keeps it going, is its cast. Hart leads the pack as Logelin as the film allows him to show his acting chops, especially in a dramatic role. We all know him from his comedy roles and various specials, however, viewers rarely get a glimpse of his dramatic acting. The script allows him to show some impressive range. Hurd gives a satisfying performance as Maddy, bringing the best out of her character while helping to prop up Hart’s Logelin. As a 21st century girl raised by a single father, she is brave, strong, and outspoken with occasional rash words. Howery as Logelin’s best friend Jordan is quite similar to his role in Get Out. Meanwhile, the remainder of the cast members were also solid in keeping the ship afloat.

At its core, Fatherhood is a father-daughter film though as with contemporary films, it touches several genres and tones, attempting to strike a balance between comedy and drama. While not an outright comedy, the film features lighter moments sprinkled throughout but it can’t quite find the right balance with occasional comedy that can seem out of place though it certainly still justifies the overall tone of the film. Logelin’s arduous journey as a father as well as a person is brought out well, supported by Hart’s performance. The impact of losing his wife and fathering a daughter alone is reflected in all the walks of his life, including at work, with friends, relationships, and personal life. Credit to the musical score for evoking the right emotions and contrasts, as required in the scene.

Apart from its performances, Fatherhood enters into a territory where it is not directly bad, but extremely unoriginal, becoming strikingly close to that of a Hallmark movie. Granted that the film is based upon the true story of Matthew Logelin, an American author, adapted from his memoir Two Kisses for Maddy: A Memoir of Loss and Love. However, the film still misses an opportunity to provide a unique experience. In fact, the film’s trailer is sufficient enough to give viewers more or less a clear picture of how its events will play out. One of its main drawbacks is the conventionality of the script to the point that it follows almost all the familiar beats and troupes earmarked for such stories, with little twists or deviation. If a film follows a template, it will definitely work out though the more important factor is the creative variety it offers. This is not to say that there are no worthy moments to be had here, they are just predictable ones.

The release date of Fatherhood is definitely not a coincidence with June 18th being the start of Father’s Day weekend (leading up to Father’s Day on June 20th). While the film is inevitably banking on the holiday, prospective viewers should spend time with their families watching the film only if they absolutely need to. Those who are not big fans of Kevin Hart will be better served passing on this one and instead, spending their days with their fathers doing something they cherish. 

still courtesy of Netflix

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