DADDY’S HOME (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.4|5.0 Starsìììì

Daddy’s Home does something rare in a comedy script—it keeps its comedic pace evenly distributed throughout the movie without a drop, dip, or single flag in style. The dialogue and scenes deliver a beautiful understanding of the nuances that play out between men of opposite character trying to work through and establish common meeting ground in a situation that seems to predict complete failure. The storyline is a little ‘edgy’ but makes that edginess work for the overall benefit of the film without offending. Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg act their assigned characters through perfectly rendered body language, well-timed dialogue, and delightful coordination of choreography. Supporting cast members do not overshadow the lead characters’ roles. The film, from beginning to end, establishes itself as a terrific and thoroughly enjoyable watch.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

New step dad, Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), and ‘real’ dad, Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), interlock horns over territorial rights.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Sean Anders for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Sean Anders, Riza Aziz, Jessica Elbaum, David Koplan, Joey McFarland, Diane Pokorny, and Kevin J. Messick for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell), Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), Sara (Linda Cardellini), Leo Holt (Thomas Haden Church), Megan (Scarlett Estevez), Dylan (Owen Vaccaro) Dr. Francisco (Bobby Cannavale), Griff (Hannibal Buress), Jerry (Bill Burr), Doris (Jamie Denbo), Dental Hygenist (Mark L. Young), Pete (Matthew Paul Martinez), Panda Singer #1 (Dave Davis), and Panda Singer #2 (James Harlon Palmer).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The movie deserves a sequel and sets itself up for Daddy’s Home 2 that adds John Lithgow, Mel Gibson, and John Cena to the story.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

INSTANT FAMILY (Theatrical Release USA 2018)

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì 

Instant Family—strong, sound storyline—makes a good and honest presentation of foster care, adoption, and the diligence necessary to make a family work within that scenario. Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne give an exceptionally realistic and worthy acting performance with their establishment of boundaries, acceptable behavior, and loving interest that consistently hold place through tumultuous family adjustment periods. The child actors/actresses have been well-chosen. Watch for some wonderful random appearances by Joan Cusack. This movie makes a good family share that offers quality after-viewing discussion. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

This family comedy drama film is about a husband and wife who decide to adopt three siblings. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Sean Anders for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Allegra Clegg, Helen Pollak, for making the film possible. Cast includes: Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Isabela Merced, Gustavo Escobar, Juliana Gamiz, Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro, Tom Segura, Allyn Rachel, and Britt Rentschler.

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. Instant Family is a terrific extension of Mark Wahlberg’s talent in film with its great story, presentation and portrayal. Good teen/adult share movie. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers