The release of the new comedy film “Old Dads” on Netflix has stirred a significant divide among its audience, with some viewers praising it as the “best film they’ve seen in years,” while others have expressed less favorable opinions, labeling it as “terrible.”
“Old Dads,” currently available on Netflix, has ignited a spirited debate among viewers since its recent release. The film has garnered a 17 percent critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, resulting in a largely unfavorable reception from professional reviewers. However, the audience score on the same platform stands at a substantially higher 89 percent, highlighting the stark contrast in opinions between critics and viewers.
The film, “Old Dads,” revolves around a trio of late-middle-age fathers portrayed by Bill Burr, Bobby Cannavale, and Bokeem Woodbine. In the film, these fathers find themselves contending with preschool principals, millennial CEOs, and the challenges posed by a world that has evolved considerably since their own youth. Bill Burr, who co-wrote the film alongside Ben Tishler, makes his directorial debut with “Old Dads.”
Audiences’ reactions to the film have been polarized. Some viewers have enthusiastically embraced the humor and narrative of “Old Dads.” For instance, a user on X (formerly known as Twitter) enthusiastically declared, “This ‘Old Dads’ movie on Netflix 10/10,” while another viewer shared, “Just watched ‘Old Dads’ on Netflix… best movie I’ve seen in 15 years.” A third fan expressed their fondness for the film, stating, “Old Dads is great. I miss movies like this.”
In contrast, some viewers were far less impressed with “Old Dads.” Critical comments have surfaced, with one Twitter user describing the film as “completely terrible,” and another expressing dissatisfaction with the acting and humor, labeling them as “so so bad.”
“Old Dads” delves into a storyline grounded in originality, as it draws from the experiences of Bill Burr and Ben Tishler, who, as older fathers, grapple with raising their children in a society that has undergone rapid transformation. The film delves into the lives of three friends who are in distinct stages of their lives, all navigating the complexities of being older fathers while jointly running a business. Their collective perspective is steeped in nostalgia, with the ’80s and early ’90s holding a special place in their hearts as they navigate a world that has evolved significantly.
Bill Burr shared insights into the premise of the film, explaining, “The premise is about three friends who are in different stages of their life, and they have little kids. They’re older dads and they have a business that they’re running together. The three of them are sort of trapped in the ’80s and early ’90s in their heads. To them, that was the greatest time to be alive and the whole world has changed, and they haven’t.”
He further elaborated on the film’s development process, highlighting the valuable input from a younger perspective. Burr noted that a 28-year-old provided a critical perspective, stating, “This is a great movie for 50-year-olds.” Initially taken aback by this perspective, Burr later realized the importance of ensuring the film’s appeal transcended generational boundaries.
“Old Dads” is now available for streaming on Netflix, leaving audiences with the choice to explore the film’s unique take on parenting, nostalgia, and the challenges of evolving in a rapidly changing world. Whether viewers find it to be a hilarious and nostalgic journey or a less favorable comedic experience, the film’s polarizing nature continues to generate discussions and debates.
