Rating: ★★½☆☆ (2.5/5 Stars)
Released 10-18-2024
Watched 11-17-2024
Reviewed 01-08-2024
Rented from Apple TV
"If life isn't kicking your ass, it's not doing its job."
"Goodrich," directed by Hallie Meyers-Shyer, is a 2024 comedy-drama that explores the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth. The film stars Michael Keaton as Andy Goodrich, a 60-year-old Los Angeles art dealer whose life is upended when his wife, Naomi (Laura Benanti), enters a 90-day rehab program, leaving him to care for their nine-year-old twins, Billie (Vivien Lyra Blair) and Mose (Jacob Kopera). As Andy navigates the challenges of modern parenthood, he leans on his estranged adult daughter, Grace (Mila Kunis), from his first marriage, leading to a journey of self-discovery and familial reconciliation.
Michael Keaton delivers a nuanced performance as Andy, capturing the character's transformation from a self-absorbed workaholic to a more present and engaged father. His portrayal brings depth to the film, balancing humor with heartfelt moments. Mila Kunis complements Keaton's performance as Grace, effectively conveying the emotional complexities of a daughter grappling with her father's sudden involvement in her life. The supporting cast, including Carmen Ejogo as Lola, the daughter of a deceased artist, and Michael Urie as Terry, a single father and friend to Andy, add layers to the narrative, though some subplots feel underdeveloped.
Meyers-Shyer's direction imbues the film with a warm, visually pleasing aesthetic reminiscent of her mother, Nancy Meyers' works. The Los Angeles backdrop, with its cozy homes and art-filled galleries, provides a picturesque setting that contrasts with the chaos of Andy's personal life. Cinematographer Jamie D. Ramsay captures these spaces with a polished, inviting glow, making the film visually engaging even during its quieter moments.
Despite its strengths, "Goodrich" struggles with pacing and narrative focus. The film juggles multiple subplots, including Andy's attempts to save his failing art gallery and his budding friendship with Terry, which at times detract from the central father-daughter relationship. Some character arcs, such as Lola's, could benefit from more depth and nuance. Additionally, the film's tendency to rely on familiar tropes—particularly in its depiction of Andy's bumbling attempts at parenting—occasionally detracts from its otherwise genuine portrayal of family life.
"Goodrich" offers a heartfelt exploration of redemption and familial connection, anchored by strong performances from its lead actors. However, its ambition occasionally outpaces its execution, resulting in an uneven narrative that doesn't fully capitalize on its emotional potential. While the film provides moments of warmth and sincerity, it ultimately falls short of delivering a fully satisfying experience.
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