Old Dads Movie Review

"Old Dads," directed by Bill Burr, follows three friends navigating fatherhood and modern society. Despite its flaws, the film offers thought-provoking observations and Burr's comedic presence.

"Old Dads" is a film directed by Bill Burr and stars a talented cast including Bill Burr himself, Bobby Cannavale, Bokeem Woodbine, Katie Aselton, Reign Edwards, Rachael Harris, Katrina Bowden, C. Thomas Howell, Natasha Leggero, Miles Robbins, Josh Brener, Jackie Tohn, Cody Renee Cameron, Rory Scovel, Justene Alpert, Abbie Cobb, Cameron Kelly, Angela Gulner, Chelsea Marie Davis, Justin Miles, Erin Wu, Paul Walter Hauser, Steph Tolev, Rick Glassman, Carl Tart, Dominic Grey Gonzalez, Dash McCloud, and Bruce Dern.

The story revolves around three best friends who become fathers later in life. They find themselves facing challenges from preschool principals, millennial CEOs, and anything that has come into existence after 1987.

It is important to note that "Old Dads" was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the writers and actors who are currently on strike, this film would not exist.

Bill Burr, who co-wrote, directed, and stars in the film alongside Ben Tishler, portrays a cranky character who is frustrated with the progressive changes in society. Without the self-awareness of the script, this character's complaints could have turned the film into an unfunny rant. However, the script acknowledges that the character is a toxic jackass with anger issues, which ultimately pushes away his wife Leah (played by Katie Aselton) and their child Nate (played by Dash McCloud). This point is humorously emphasized by a cameo appearance from Bruce Dern.

Despite the character's flaws, some of his observations about modern society hold some merit. For example, the film highlights how people often behave differently in public compared to when they are alone, suggesting that many individuals only put on a facade to avoid negative consequences. Bill Burr's natural comedic presence shines through in the film, even if viewers may not fully agree with his character's grievances. His jokes feel authentic and are reminiscent of his standup routines.

The film raises the question of whether political correctness has gone too far, with many people feeling the need to walk on eggshells unnecessarily. It also explores the idea that certain behaviors, like vaping, may not be as different from their predecessors as they seem. Additionally, the film touches on the notion that allowing friends to be foolish and have private conversations may not always be harmful. However, the character of Jack often crosses the line with offensive language, transphobic comments, and his treatment of his wife, which raises concerns about the character's likability.

The plot of the film is somewhat scattered, primarily focusing on Jack's attempts to prove himself as a stable and loving father to Dr. Lois Schmieckel-Turner (played by Rachael Harris) in order to secure his son Nate's acceptance into a prestigious private school. After a meltdown where he insults her, Jack throws himself into organizing a crucial fundraiser for the school to redeem himself. Throughout the process, he repeatedly humiliates his wife.

Meanwhile, Jack sells his retro sports jersey business to pay for private schooling. The business is taken over by millennial Aspen Bell (played by Miles Robbins), who has some questionable ideas for its branding. This provides more material for Bill Burr's character to complain about. Jack's friends Connor (played by Bobby Cannavale) and Mike (played by Bokeem Woodbine) also have their own relationship struggles, with Connor fearing his controlling wife Cara (played by Jackie Tohn) and Mike unsure about starting a family with his partner Britney (played by Reign Edwards). These characters provide comedic moments, including a humorous running gag involving secret letters between Jack and Connor.

The film takes an unexpected turn when the characters embark on a road trip to convince a hermit to become the brand ambassador for the sports jersey company. Unfortunately, this subplot doesn't add much humor to the story. Later on, there is another road trip to a casino involving drugs and strip joints, which is slightly funnier but deviates too far from the original premise of older fathers navigating a changing world.

Despite its flaws, "Old Dads" remains watchable and tolerable due to Bill Burr's awareness that the characters, particularly his own, are obnoxious and in need of personal growth.

In conclusion, "Old Dads" offers a mix of humor and social commentary, exploring the frustrations of a generation caught between outdated beliefs and a rapidly evolving society. While the film's narrative structure may not fully support its comedic potential, it still manages to engage viewers and provoke thought.

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