Goodrich Film Review

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Goodrich – Film Review

A Heartfelt Tale of Family, Fatherhood, and Fresh Starts

If you’re anything like me, the spring and summer heat practically begs you to make a cool escape to the cinema. What better way to beat the heat than with Goodrich, a new film hitting screens across Australia from November 21? A delightful blend of comedy and drama, this movie is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a fresh take on family dynamics and personal growth.

At the heart of the story is Andy Goodrich, played by the inimitable Michael Keaton, whose career versatility and brilliance shine in this role. Andy, a workaholic gallery owner, is thrust into unfamiliar territory when his second marriage dissolves, leaving him as the sole caregiver to his nine-year-old twins. Long accustomed to leaning on his adult daughter Grace (Mila Kunis) from his first marriage, Andy must now face the challenges of parenthood head-on, learning to give his younger children what Grace lacked during her own childhood—his presence.

Michael Keaton is, as always, a joy to watch. A master of drama, comedy, and everything in between, he brings warmth, vulnerability, and nuance to Andy, making his journey deeply relatable. Kunis delivers a standout performance as Grace, showing maturity and depth that mark this as her best work yet. Jacob Kopera and Vivien Lyra Blair, playing the twins, bring both charm and authenticity to their roles, proving themselves to be young talents worth keeping an eye on.

Unlike many family dramas that risk tipping into saccharine sentimentality, Goodrich strikes a perfect balance, avoiding clichés while offering plenty of laughs, often with a darker, more sophisticated edge. Hallie Meyers-Shyer, who wrote and directed the film, proves herself a deft hand at creating smart, engaging dialogue filled with wit and natural rhythm. The result is a story that feels genuine and relatable without being preachy or overdone.

Visually, the film is a treat, thanks to the exceptional work of production designer Richard Bloom, who imbues Andy’s home and gallery with stylish character and charm. These spaces feel like extensions of Andy himself, underscoring his journey as he grapples with seismic changes in both his personal and professional life.

What’s particularly striking about Goodrich is its subtle commentary on gender politics. While it avoids the slapstick pitfalls of a film like 1983’s Mr. Mom (also starring Keaton), it still asks pointed questions about the expectations placed on fathers in our society. Andy’s struggle to balance work and parenting feels as relevant today as it did decades ago, and it’s fascinating to consider whether cultural attitudes around these roles have truly progressed.

Don’t let the synopsis fool you—this is no shallow comedy, nor is it a critique designed to emasculate its protagonist. Instead, Goodrich offers a thoughtful, engaging exploration of one man’s transformation, anchored by outstanding performances and a sharp script. With its humour, heart, and refreshing perspective, Goodrich is a cinematic escape well worth taking.



IN CINEMAS NOVEMBER 21
Running Time: 111 Minutes
Rating: M
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Images are provided courtesy of Rialto Distribution