Movie Review: “Goodrich” (2024)

“Goodrich” is a heartwarming family comedy-drama that made its theatrical debut on October 18, 2024. Directed by Hallie Meyers-Shyer (known for Home Again), this film delves into themes of parenting, responsibility, and second chances. It stars Michael Keaton in a standout performance as Andy Goodrich, a man who must suddenly care for his young children after his wife checks into rehab. The movie brings a perfect balance of comedy and emotional depth, exploring the challenges and triumphs of family life with sincerity and humor.

Plot Overview

Set against the backdrop of suburban life, “Goodrich” tells the story of Andy Goodrich, a man whose comfortable routine is abruptly disrupted when his wife enters a rehab facility. Left to care for their two young children, Andy must juggle the challenges of fatherhood while trying to reconnect with his estranged adult daughter, Grace, played by Mila Kunis. As the family faces an emotional rollercoaster, Andy embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning what it truly means to be a father. Through moments of comedy and heartfelt drama, the film captures the essence of familial bonds and personal growth.

Cast and Acting Performances

“Goodrich” is buoyed by a stellar cast that brings life and authenticity to its characters. Here is a closer look at the key performances:

Actor	Role	Performance Highlight
Michael Keaton	Andy Goodrich	A masterclass in vulnerability and comedic timing. Keaton effortlessly balances humor with emotional depth as a father navigating uncharted waters.
Mila Kunis	Grace	Kunis delivers a layered performance as Grace, Andy’s estranged daughter, showcasing her talent in portraying strained family relationships.
Andie MacDowell	Rehabilitation counselor	MacDowell provides a solid and compassionate portrayal of the counselor helping Andy’s wife through her recovery journey.
Carmen Ejogo	Andy’s Wife	Though mostly seen in flashbacks and phone calls, Ejogo gives a heartfelt performance as a woman struggling with addiction.
Laura Benanti	Lisa, the nosy neighbor	Benanti’s comedic flair adds moments of levity, playing the nosy neighbor always ready with unsolicited advice.

Michael Keaton shines in the role of Andy Goodrich. Keaton’s portrayal is filled with nuance, capturing the confusion and vulnerability of a father who has spent much of his life focused on his career and now finds himself forced to engage with his children in ways he never expected. His comedic timing and emotional depth make Andy a relatable and compelling character. Mila Kunis, as Grace, brings a palpable tension to her scenes with Keaton, illustrating the strain of their relationship. Together, the cast creates a believable family dynamic that resonates emotionally with the audience.

Screenplay and Direction

Hallie Meyers-Shyer, who both directed and co-wrote the screenplay, demonstrates her ability to weave humor with drama seamlessly. The dialogue is sharp and witty, yet grounded in authenticity. Each character is given their moment to shine, with well-crafted arcs that avoid the pitfalls of formulaic storytelling.

The screenplay excels in exploring family dynamics without resorting to clichés. Instead, the film presents real-world struggles that many modern families face, such as balancing career and parenting, dealing with addiction, and mending broken relationships. The narrative is tightly woven, with moments of humor interspersed to keep the film lighthearted without diluting its emotional impact.

One of the most engaging aspects of the screenplay is its focus on second chances. Andy’s journey of reconnecting with his daughter and embracing his role as a full-time father is portrayed with warmth and sincerity. The film also skillfully avoids melodrama, offering a realistic portrayal of addiction’s impact on family life without becoming overly preachy.

Cinematography

The cinematography by Dean Cundey, a veteran in family-oriented films, provides a visually warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the film’s tone. The suburban setting is captured beautifully, with wide shots of Andy’s home and neighborhood reflecting the tranquility of his old life. As Andy’s world becomes more chaotic with the demands of parenthood, the camera work subtly shifts to more intimate, handheld shots, pulling the audience closer to his emotional journey.

The film’s use of natural lighting gives it a soft, familial feel, particularly in scenes that focus on Andy’s interactions with his children. Whether it’s a chaotic breakfast scene or a quiet moment of reflection at night, the cinematography captures the emotional highs and lows in a way that feels genuine.

Themes Explored in Goodrich

1. Parenting Challenges: “Goodrich” shines a light on the trials of single parenting, especially for a father who is unprepared for the role. The film humorously yet thoughtfully depicts Andy’s struggle to balance his career with the demands of looking after his children.
2. Addiction and Recovery: The subplot of Andy’s wife entering rehab is treated with care, showing how addiction impacts not just the individual but also their loved ones. It emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the long road to recovery, all while maintaining an optimistic outlook.
3. Second Chances: Central to the film is the theme of second chances, particularly in familial relationships. Andy’s attempts to reconnect with Grace are portrayed with tenderness, showcasing the complexity of father-daughter relationships.
4. Personal Growth: The film beautifully portrays Andy’s journey of personal growth. His initial resistance to parenting gradually transforms into acceptance and even joy as he rediscovers himself through his role as a father.

Cinematography Highlights

Cinematic Technique	Description	Impact on Storytelling
Natural Lighting	Utilized in outdoor scenes and family moments to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.	Enhances the heartwarming, intimate feel of family life.
Close-up Shots	Used effectively in moments of tension between Andy and Grace.	Brings the audience into the emotional intensity of the characters’ interactions.
Handheld Camera Movement	During chaotic or emotional moments, particularly when Andy feels overwhelmed by his new responsibilities.	Adds to the authenticity and rawness of the character’s journey.

Box Office Predictions

Given the film’s family-friendly appeal and star power, “Goodrich” is expected to perform well at the box office. With Michael Keaton‘s recent resurgence in both comedic and dramatic roles, his presence is likely to draw in a broad audience. The film’s release timing—just before the holiday season—positions it as an ideal option for family viewing, likely benefiting from word-of-mouth recommendations.

Predicted Box Office Performance

Market	Expected Performance
Domestic (U.S.)	$40-50 million
International	$30-40 million
Total Global	$70-90 million

While these numbers are speculative, the film’s heartwarming message and comedic undertones could ensure a steady draw at the box office, particularly for family-oriented audiences.

Conclusion: Why You Should Watch “Goodrich”

“Goodrich” is a charming and heartwarming exploration of family life, filled with both humor and poignant moments. With Michael Keaton delivering one of his most relatable performances in recent years, the film stands out as a refreshing take on the challenges of modern-day fatherhood. Its themes of second chances, addiction, and personal growth make it not just an entertaining watch but also an emotionally resonant one. Whether you’re a fan of family dramas or looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful movie, “Goodrich” offers a perfect blend of comedy and heartfelt storytelling.

Call to Action: Don’t miss out on this delightful family drama! Watch the trailer now and grab your tickets to see “Goodrich” in theaters near you.