Cast
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Bill Burr
as Jack Kelly
Bobby Cannavale
as Connor Brody
Bokeem Woodbine
as Mike Richards
Katie Aselton
as Leah Kelly
Reign Edwards
as Britney
Jackie Tohn
as Cara Brody
Miles Robbins
as Aspen Bell
Rachael Harris
as Dr. Lois Schmieckel-Turner
Dash McCloud
as Nate Kelly
Justin Miles
as Travis Romine
C. Thomas Howell
as Ed Cameron
Bruce Dern
as Richie Jacobs
Dominic Grey Gonzalez
as Colin Brody
Natasha Leggero
as Kelly (Parent)
Katrina Bowden
as Joanna (Parent)
Crew
Director
- Bill Burr
Writer
- Bill Burr
- Ben Tishler
Producer
- Mike Bertolina
- Bill Block
- Monica Levinson
- Bill Burr
- Ben Tishler
Reviews
Louisa Moore - Screen Zealots
R-rated comedy “Old Dads” is not particularly bad and not particularly good, but it is entertaining, disposable entertainment. Directed and co-written by comedian Bill Burr, the film has some funny (if sometimes stale) jokes and a watered-down premise that makes it mostly a throwaway. In other words, it’s your typical mass-produced Netflix movie.
Best friends and business partners Jack (Burr), Connor (Bobby Cannavale), and Mike (Bokeem Woodbine) became fathers later in life. The trio finds that raising kids in your late 40s isn’t easy, and they decide to sell their successful sports apparel company to an eccentric millennial CEO (Miles Robbins). The gang are subsequently cut out of their business, which makes Jack boil over with anger. This spreads into his everyday life, from causing a rift with his pregnant wife (Katie Aselton) and starting a battle with his son’s ultra-progressive preschool principal (Rachael Harris). Leaning on his buddies to help him get his life under control, Jack and the boys go on a quest that takes them through the streets of Los Angeles and the strip clubs of Palm Springs.
The comedy is raunchy, vulgar, and aimed at people who are angry at the modern politically correct society and culture. The film feels like a vehicle for Burr to air his grievances and rant against progressive thought, and some of his observations are funny (because they’re true). The reason you’ll laugh out loud is that once in a while, Burr hits on a universal anecdote about the hypocrisy surrounding today’s culture war that’s dead accurate. He never really pushes the envelope too far, though, and tries hard not to offend the liberals who will see themselves on the receiving end of his barbs and wisecracks. What helps is Burr’s sarcastic delivery and angry man persona, which you’ll either find hilarious or annoying.
There are a fair share of dad jokes and shopworn one-liners that made me wince, but the stuff that’s funny is truly hilarious. It’s also worth noting that you don’t need kids to find the movie humorous, because it’s an enjoyable spectator sport to poke fun at the pretentiousness of glib, self-righteous parents.
“Old Dads” has its moments, even if it’s not a slam dunk. Quality-wise, it lands squarely in the middle of the pack: and that’s probably just good enough for its intended audience.
By: Louisa Moore
Nov 3, 2023
tmdb51616167
It's not uncommon for critics and audiences to have differing opinions on movies, and it's understandable that you may not agree with the harsh reviews of a film that you found to be enjoyable. Your positive perspective on the movie highlights its strengths in humor, entertainment value, and storytelling.
It's great to hear that you found the film to be funny and hilarious throughout, keeping you entertained and engaged from start to finish. The comedic elements and the portrayal of older dads becoming parents add a unique and relatable touch to the movie, making it a great experience for viewers who can connect with that perspective.
Your recommendation of the film as a highly entertaining and fun experience underscores its ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences. It's refreshing to hear your positive take on the movie and how it resonated with you, showcasing that different viewers can have varying reactions to the same film.
Sep 10, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Old Dads represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Bill Burr brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2023, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Old Dads took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 466 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2023, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Old Dads shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Click, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Old Dads subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ezra and Parenthood explore similar territory, Old Dads stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 20, 2023
- Runtime: 1h 42m
Where to Watch
