Goodrich

Andy Goodrich's (Michael Keaton) life is upended when his wife and mother of their nine-year-old twins enters a 90-day rehab program, leaving him on his own with their young kids. Thrust into the world of modern parenthood, Goodrich leans on his daughter from his first marriage, Grace (Mila Kunis), as he ultimately evolves into the father Grace always wanted.

The story is not just about Keaton growing into being a father, it's about him growing every time life throws him sideways. I guess the whole story, with negative event after negative event coming at him from all sides, tearing at who he is, is about him fighting back quietly and stoically and overcoming everything life can bring that's dark. He improves himself into a version that multiple people can love, and he finds what is really important in life instead of spending all of his energy on work. Keaton's performance is brilliant and justifies the writer and director's (Hallie Meyers-Shyer) decision to write the film for him. He is ably backed by Mila Kunis who proved she can do serious acting as well as the comedy she is well known for. Vivien Lyra-Blair as his daughter Ellie deserves a major shout out for her great performance. She's been around for several years now and she just keeps getting better and better.

All in all a great film which says to me "Don't ever give up. Always strive to overcome and move forward." Most of us over a certain age already know this but it's great to have a reminder, and a one done so cleverly and emotionally. A thoroughly enjoyable film with great performances by everyone and I gave it a 7.

Goodrich starts off somewhat disjointed but gradually finds its stride, especially towards the end. The film offers several heartwarming moments, but the first act suffers from excessive exposition that feels forced and unnatural. Rather than relying on dialogue-heavy scenes, the story would have benefited from showing more of the evolving relationship between Goodrich and his eldest daughter, Grace. Unfortunately, too much time is spent on the somewhat irrelevant dynamic between Goodrich and Michael Urie's character (Terry), which detracts from the main plot. Additionally, the film struggles with balancing serious moments, often interrupting them with forced witty dialogue that undermines the emotional impact. Despite its flaws, "Goodrich" manages to deliver a somewhat satisfying finish, though it could have reached deeper emotional heights with better pacing and character focus. For a sophomore directorial effort, it was satisfactory.

"Goodrich" is a movie with its heart in the right place, yet it struggles to fully deliver on its emotional promise. Michael Keaton shines in his role, showcasing his ability to balance vulnerability and humor, while Mila Kunis provides a solid performance that adds some depth to the family drama. Their chemistry offers glimpses of what the movie could have been if its storytelling had been tighter.

The film stumbles with its uneven pacing and a script that feels too predictable at times. While some scenes carry genuine emotional weight, others fall flat, bogged down by clichés or an over-reliance on sentimentality. The mix of humor and drama occasionally feels forced, as if the movie is unsure of the tone it wants to maintain.

Visually, "Goodrich" makes good use of its Los Angeles setting, with a warm, polished aesthetic that fits the movie's themes of family and personal growth. The score is pleasant and inoffensive but lacks the kind of memorability that might elevate key moments.

Overall, "Goodrich" is a decent watch for its performances and occasional heartfelt moments, but it doesn't leave a lasting impact. It's a safe, middle-of-the-road film that's enjoyable enough for a quiet evening but unlikely to stick with you long after the credits roll.

Hallie Meyers-Shyer delivers her second film as director and screenwriter, a tragicomedy about parenthood with Michael Keaton at his best.

A simple but loving story is what Goodrich delivers about a father who seeks the help of his adult daughter to raise his young twins after his second wife leaves him.

The film works thanks to a pleasant script and enthusiastic direction that allows us to have Michael Keaton in one of his best performances where we can see the actor in all his splendor and with all his talent to take us from comedy to drama and vice versa in a gratifying and perfect way. A character full of humanity and sweetness, but with a soul really in need of affection that makes him an adorable character that hooks you throughout his journey. Also notable are his supporting actors like Mila Kunis and the young actors who demonstrate an avalanche of charisma.

It doesn't reinvent the wheel, it's a routine film that has been seen many times, but it is endearing with funny moments and other emotional ones that make this tragicomedy a pleasant pastime to watch on a family weekend. It doesn't propose new things and always plays it safe in the aspects it wants to explore in depth, but its entire cast gives it an additional plus, which allows you as a spectator to have a good time watching this adventure about fatherhood, maturity, forgiveness and love.

Recommended for anyone looking for something light and full of pleasant messages, it is a movie that you will have a good time with and it will be worth it without any major expectations.

This is my first IMDB review, but the difference between the current rating and the quality of the movie is just incredible, I had to intervene. Goodrich is an excellent, calm, well paced movie about a flawed man that is forced to become a better version of himself. Keaton does an excellent job, I can't think of an actor that would've been better. Mila Kunis is also a great addition to the cast, these two have incredible father/daughter chemistry that is a joy to watch. I promise, it's easily a 9/10 movie that should definitely be given a chance. I usually check IMDB ratings before watching a movie, so in case you're doing the same, just give this movie a go, I'd be surprised if you're disappointed.