Just Like Dad (1995) (TV)

User Rating:

5.9/10   

Director:

Blair Treu

Writer (WGA):

Wayne Allan Rice (written by)

Release Date:

4 November 1996 (USA)

Genre:

Comedy | Drama | Family

Plot Keywords:

Independent Film

Awards:

2 wins

Cast

Wallace Shawn	...	Stan Speigel (Charlie's Dad)
Ben Diskin	...	Charlie Speigel
Nick Cassavetes	...	Joe (Joe Joe)
Jarrett Lennon	...	Sherwood Rottman
Laura Innes	...	Rose
Michael Tucci	...	Frank Turner (Mr. Turner)
George Fisher	...	Mole
Frank Gerrish	...	Crisco
Michael Flynn	...	Peterson
Duane Stephens	...	Hoffs
Brittney Lewis	...	Annie
Christy Summerhays	...	Miss Quinn (Charlie's School Teacher)
Elisabeth Lund	...	Samantha Sandwich
Nick Murdock	...	Conner
Bernie Ben Garcia	...	Ralphie

MPAA:

Rated PG for mild violence.

Runtime:

101 min

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Ultra Stereo

Certification:

USA:PG

Filming Locations:

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Company:

Leucadia Film Corporation

Engaging and positive

This certainly is one of the better single-parent sentimentality movies. The relationship between nerdy 12-y/o Charlie (Ben Diskin) and his nerdy father (Wallace Shawn) is both intimate and mutually respectful. Far from being engaged in the usual intergenerational control struggle, they are each trying to support the other, and when they mistakenly hurt each other they are regretful. If this sounds a bit sappy, it's balanced by a sub-plot involving a reformed gangster (Nick Cassavetes) and some rough characters from his past. My personal test of a "kid movie" is always whether or not the young person is portrayed as a fully human being, with thoughts, opinions and values, and who takes independent initiatives to solve the problems the plot presents to him or her. This film gets very high marks in that regard, and is well acted and well directed (Blair Treu) to boot. Excellent viewing!