The new movie, FATHERHOOD, is based on a memoir called “Two Kisses for Maddy.” It is about finding your way back after profound loss. It is a testament to love again. My question is, why would the director cast Kevin Hart in this dramatic lead?
Don’t get me wrong. I adore Kevin Hart. He is a funny guy, and he does have the acting skills to play a serious role, but the script for this film did not do him justice. It felt miscast. He is better than this movie.
The best scenes with Kevin Hart portraying Matt was with his daughter Maddy, adorably created by Melody Hurd. Their dialogues together appeared authentic and honest. The two of them seemed steeped in real father/daughter moments.
FATHERHOOD also got bogged down with extra themes that never had enough screen time to appreciate or go anywhere. It is not enough to merely mention that Maddy likes to wear pants and boy’s underwear. And where do fathers go for support in raising a newborn? We needed to know more.
Alfre Woodard, as Matt’s mother-in-law, deserved additional time as well. She is too fine an actress to be used so infrequently, even though the title is FATHERHOOD. There just was not enough of a conflict to carry throughout the movie.
FATHERHOOD is an okay, average film. I just expected a different experience while watching it. It is available to stream on Netflix.
