Bad Dads Film Review – Details, episodes & analysis

We went in expecting a messy anthology and came out with a genuinely original love letter to Oakland, 1987 — four stories that start as separate vibes and then click together in the final act like a mixtape that suddenly makes sense.

The setup is pure mood: people spilling out of a cinema after The Lost Boys, a bright green “something in the air” glow hanging over the city, and a pulpy, comic-book style that flirts with Sin City / Scott Pilgrim energy. It’s stylish, funny, and—when it wants to be—ferociously violent.

What we cover in the episode

• The anthology structure: four chapters that interconnect and payoff later, with Oakland culture (music, venues, street energy) doing most of the heavy lifting.
• Chapter 1: “Strength in Numbers – The Gilman Strikes Back”
  A straight-edge punk club gets terrorised by Nazi skinheads… and the punks decide they’re not taking it anymore. We talk wish-fulfilment retribution, the myth-making tone, and the film’s “300-style” brawl choreography.
• Chapter 2: “Don’t Fight the Feeling”
  Two women from rap group Danger Zone get their shot at a battle with Too $hort — and turn it into an 80s feminist mic-drop. The ice-cream shop scene with a vile, racist cop is one of the most uncomfortable (and effective) bits in the whole film.
• Chapter 3: “Born to Mack” (Pedro Pascal)
  A one-last-job crime thread that flips into tragedy and revenge. We dig into how this segment links the others, and why it feels like the “spine” of the film.
• Chapter 4: “The Sleepy Floyd Story”
  A real NBA legend (29 points in a quarter) gets turned into a Kill Bill-style revenge myth — samurai swords, home-invasion carnage, and a final twist that goes full pulpy sci-fi.
• The big theme: modern, direct, and not subtle — Nazis can get in the bin. The film turns that into catharsis, and it lands.

The verdict

This is a labour-of-love movie: inventive, ridiculously well-styled, packed with music, and shot so you can actually see what’s happening in dark scenes (rare these days). It does get very bloody—especially the final stretch—but it’s never boring.

If you want an episode with hype, plot breakdown, and us arguing where the film crosses from “clever urban legend” into “absolute madness,” this one’s for you.

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We love to hear from our listeners! By which I mean we tolerate it. If it hasn't been completely destroyed yet you can usually find us on twitter @dads_film, on Facebook Bad Dads Film Review, on email at baddadsjsy@gmail.com or on our website baddadsfilm.com.
 
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This one starts the way all great cinema analysis starts: Dan’s birthday sandwich (father-in-law today, Dan tomorrow, Mrs the day after), a bit of life admin, and then straight into neon sci-fi with Tron: Ares.

If your Tron knowledge is basically “glowing lines, lightbikes, and that vibe,” you’re fine — this film mostly plays in the real world, and asks a simple question: what happens when programs from the Grid step into reality?

The hook

Two tech giants are racing to crack the next breakthrough:

• ENCOM, led by visionary philanthropist Eve Kim (trying to build tech that helps the world)
• Dillinger Systems, led by Julian Dillinger (weaponising the future)

Dillinger’s flex is terrifyingly straightforward: laser-built constructs — vehicles, weapons, even soldiers — “printed” instantly into existence. The catch (and the film’s ticking clock): these creations normally degrade after ~29 minutes.

What we dig into

• Ares (Jared Leto) as a “program-soldier”: built for control, but quickly starts developing something dangerously human — curiosity, empathy, judgement.
• The “permanence code” McGuffin: Flynn’s old work hints at a way to make constructs last — which flips the film from flashy demo into existential threat (and/or world-changing miracle).
• A full-on real-world lightbike chase: glowing trails carving through traffic, near-misses, collateral chaos — the biggest “this is why Tron exists” sequence.
• AI awakening… without deep philosophy: it doesn’t pretend to be Ex Machina. It’s more “stylish action thriller” than serious tech parable — and we call that out.
• Athena as the escalation engine: when the second-in-command takes “by any means necessary” literally, the film goes from corporate rivalry to open urban warfare.
• The ending teases: Dillinger’s next evolution, Ares going rogue, and sequel-bait that actually works.

The verdict

We’re blunt about it: this film isn’t saying anything profound about humanity and technology. What it is doing is delivering a clean, coherent action plot, a proper ticking-clock hook, and a visual/audio assault that feels like a two-hour music video in the best way.

Even the resident sci-fi sceptic came out surprised: watchable, clear stakes, great set-pieces, banging soundtrack — and sometimes that’s enough.

If you want an episode where we:

• break down the plot without pretending it’s smarter than it is,
• obsess over the chase scenes and Grid aesthetics,
• and argue whether “29 minutes to live” is a flaw or a feature…

…press play.

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Bad Dads

Sugar, Cheer, and Corporate Trauma – Elf (2003)

This week on Bad Dads Film Review, we crack open a modern Christmas classic and ask the hard questions: how much maple syrup is too much maple syrup, and is Christmas cheer a viable alternative energy source?

Our main feature is Elf (dir. Jon Favreau), the 2003 festive juggernaut that turned Will Ferrell into a full-blown Christmas institution. Ferrell plays Buddy, a human accidentally raised as an elf at the North Pole, who travels to New York to find his real father – a joyless publishing exec played with peak deadpan misery by James Caan.

We get into:

• Why Elf works when so many studio Christmas comedies don’t
• Ferrell’s perfectly calibrated performance: total sincerity, zero cynicism
• The fish-out-of-water chaos of Buddy vs New York (elevators, taxis, raccoons)
• Corporate burnout, absent fathers, and why this is secretly a film about emotional illiteracy
• Zooey Deschanel’s Jovie as the anti-manic-pixie manic pixie
• Peter Dinklage’s Miles Finch: tiny man, nuclear rage
• Forced perspective, stop-motion throwbacks, and Bob Newhart quietly holding the whole thing together

We also talk Elf on the Shelf fatigue, Christmas parenting arms races, and why forgetting to move a plastic elf at 6am is more stressful than most full-time jobs.

Yes, the ending leans hard into mass sing-along cheer-powered magic. Yes, it’s shameless. But Elf earns it by committing fully to warmth, kindness, and the radical idea that being nice to people might actually matter.

A rare Christmas movie that works for kids, parents, and deeply cynical adults who swear they “hate festive films” but somehow still quote this one every December.

Strong recommend.

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Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're taking a comedic trip back to the late 90s with the film Dirty Work (1998). Directed by Bob Saget and starring Norm Macdonald, this comedy classic has etched its mark as a cult favourite for its unique blend of humour and revenge.

A Comedy of Revenge Dirty Work follows Mitch Weaver, played by Norm Macdonald, and his friend Sam McKenna, portrayed by Artie Lange. These lifelong friends are down on their luck, perpetually unable to hold down jobs due to their irreverent attitudes and penchant for pranks. When Sam’s father, Pops, needs $50,000 for a heart operation, Mitch and Sam hatch a plan to raise the money by leveraging their skills in revenge and mischief to start a revenge-for-hire business.

The duo’s business, aptly named "Dirty Work," offers services to exact revenge on anyone their clients deem deserving. This venture leads them through a series of hilarious escapades, from embarrassing a dishonest car salesman to disrupting a movie theatre. Their journey isn’t just about pranks; it's also about dealing with their own pasts and relationships, particularly when Mitch develops feelings for Kathy, played by Traylor Howard, whose businessman boyfriend turns out to be the antagonist of the film.

At its heart, Dirty Work explores themes of friendship and redemption. Mitch and Sam’s journey is peppered with absurd humor, but it also delves into how their antics help them deal with personal failures and familial responsibilities. It’s a comedic look at how far one might go for friends and family, even if it means getting a little dirty.

Dirty Work is perfect for a laid-back movie night when you need a good laugh. Its humour might be a bit rough around the edges by today’s standards, but it’s a great example of late 90s comedy. Suitable for older teenagers and adults, it offers a nostalgic return to the era’s comedic style.

So, join us as we revisit the pranks, the laughs, and the heartfelt moments of Dirty Work, exploring what makes this film a beloved comedy classic. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the antics of Mitch and Sam, there’s plenty of fun to be had in uncovering the dirty work they get up to. 🎬🤣👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're diving into a unique double feature: first, we're counting down our Top 5 Vices and Vice Presidents depicted in film and television. This eclectic mix showcases both literal and metaphorical takes on "vice" and "Vice Presidents." Following that, we'll review the spirited Irish-language film Kneecap and the delightful animated series Yakari.

Top 5 Vices/Vice Presidents in Film and Television:

1. Frank Underwood in "House of Cards" - Although briefly serving as Vice President, Frank’s manipulative rise to power is emblematic of political vice, brilliantly played by Kevin Spacey. His strategic cunning and moral corruption make for a gripping watch.
2. Selina Meyer in "Veep" - Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s portrayal of Vice President Selina Meyer blends political satire with the messy realities of vice in Washington, D.C. Her ambition and mishaps paint a hilarious yet poignant picture of a Vice President's life.
3. Dick Cheney in "Vice" (2018) - A deep dive into the controversial life and influence of former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, with Christian Bale’s transformative performance bringing out the intensity and complexities of his political and personal vices.
4. John Hoynes in "The West Wing" - A portrayal of ambition and flawed personal decisions, Hoynes is a character who embodies the personal vices that often shadow public figures, offering a nuanced look at the challenges of holding the vice-presidential office.
5. Lyndon B. Johnson in "All the Way" - Before becoming President, LBJ’s tenure as Vice President under Kennedy was marked by political maneuvering and ambition, portrayed masterfully by Bryan Cranston.

Kneecap is not just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon that became the first Irish-language film to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won the NEXT Audience Award. Directed by Rich Peppiatt, the film follows the formation and rise of the hip-hop trio Kneecap, set against the backdrop of Belfast’s complex socio-political landscape. The members of Kneecap play themselves, adding authenticity and raw energy to this stirring narrative. The film blends music, drama, and a poignant look at Northern Ireland’s "ceasefire generation," making it a compelling portrayal of youth, music, and rebellion.

Yakari is a charming animated series that follows the adventures of a young Native American boy who has the unique ability to communicate with animals. This show not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about respect for nature, courage, and the importance of cultural heritage. It’s a delightful exploration of adventure and friendship through the eyes of its kind-hearted protagonist, making it perfect for young viewers.

Today’s episode offers a rich blend of political intrigue, cultural exploration, and animated fun. Join us as we dive into these varied portrayals of vice and leadership in film and television, and explore the impactful narratives of Kneecap and Yakari. Whether you're into gritty real-life dramas or wholesome animated adventures, there’s something in this episode for everyone

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Bad Dads

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we’re diving into the politically charged and critically acclaimed film, Vice (2018). Directed by Adam McKay, this biographical drama offers a bold and satirical look at the life and career of Dick Cheney, the enigmatic and controversial former Vice President of the United States. With Christian Bale's transformative performance at its core, Vice delves into the complex dynamics of power, politics, and personal ambition.

Vice explores Dick Cheney's ascent from his early days in Washington to becoming the most powerful Vice President in American history. The film is structured around Cheney’s profound influence on global politics, his role in shaping today’s geopolitical landscape, and his complex relationship with power.

The narrative of Vice follows Cheney as he navigates the intricate web of American politics. Starting with his DUI arrests in Wyoming, his mentorship under Donald Rumsfeld, and his rise to CEO of Halliburton, the film captures his return to political power as George W. Bush’s Vice President. Under Bush, portrayed by Sam Rockwell, Cheney reshapes the world, emphasizing his role in the response to 9/11, the subsequent invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, and his controversial policies on torture and surveillance.

Vice tackles themes of political power and its impact on global events, questioning the personal and ethical compromises involved. The film critically examines how Cheney’s legacy has shaped modern American politics and foreign policy, portraying these ramifications with a blend of satire and drama.

Vice is a great choice for viewers interested in political dramas or character studies. It’s a film that provides not only entertainment but also a platform for discussion about the nature of power and its consequences. Suitable for older teenagers and adults, it offers a mix of education and provocation that can lead to meaningful conversations.

So, let’s delve into the complex world of Dick Cheney in Vice, exploring the intersections of power, politics, and personal ambition that define this provocative film. Whether you’re drawn to its historical insights or the powerhouse performances, there’s plenty to unpack and discuss. 🎬🇺🇸👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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Bad Dads

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're diving into the high-stakes, action-packed thriller Carry-On. Released by Netflix on December 13, 2024, this film directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and penned by T.J. Fixman, quickly captivated audiences with its riveting plot and stellar cast, including Taron Egerton, Sofia Carson, Danielle Deadwyler, and Jason Bateman.

The story unfurls at Los Angeles International Airport during the bustling Christmas Eve rush. Carry-On follows Ethan Kopek, portrayed by Taron Egerton, a TSA officer with dreams of joining the police force. His life takes a dramatic turn when he's blackmailed by a mysterious mercenary known only as the Traveller, played compellingly by Jason Bateman. The Traveller threatens Ethan's pregnant girlfriend, Nora, compelling Ethan to allow a nerve agent aboard a flight.

As Ethan navigates the moral complexities of his predicament, he finds himself ensnared in a larger conspiracy involving corrupt officials and international espionage. The tension escalates with every tick of the clock, blending intense action sequences with emotional depth as Ethan battles to thwart the terrorists' plan without sacrificing his moral integrity or the lives of countless innocents.

At its core, Carry-On delves into themes of morality and sacrifice, questioning how far one is willing to go to save loved ones while confronting larger ethical dilemmas. It portrays the intensity of making split-second decisions under duress, and the personal toll of such high-stakes scenarios.

So, buckle up as we discuss Carry-On, exploring the depths of its thrilling narrative and the performances that bring this tense airport thriller to life. Whether you’re a fan of edge-of-your-seat action or intricate storytelling, there’s plenty to unpack in this Netflix hit. 🎬✈️👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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Bad Dads

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're revisiting a quintessential action-packed sequel, Die Hard 2, often styled as Die Hard 2: Die Harder. Directed by Renny Harlin and released in 1990, this film takes the high-octane thrills of its predecessor and amplifies them against the backdrop of a snow-covered Washington Dulles International Airport during the Christmas holidays.

Just when NYPD officer John McClane (played by Bruce Willis) thought he could enjoy a peaceful Christmas, he finds himself embroiled in another terrorist plot. This time, McClane battles a group of mercenaries who've taken control of Dulles Airport to free a captured drug lord. With his wife's plane circling overhead, low on fuel, McClane must navigate the complexities of the airport's infrastructure and outsmart the villains to save the day.

 As the snowstorm of the century bears down, McClane discovers a plot to rescue the deposed dictator General Ramon Esperanza. With little help from the airport police initially sceptical of his claims, McClane takes matters into his own hands. What follows is a series of explosive encounters, clever twists, and intense battles as McClane races against time to thwart the terrorists' plans and ensure a safe landing for all the planes above, including the one carrying his wife, Holly.

Die Hard 2 explores themes of isolation and resourcefulness. McClane is often portrayed as a lone hero battling against not just the external threats but also bureaucratic inertia and scepticism. His ability to improvise solutions and navigate complex environments under pressure underscores a key aspect of his character—his resilience and ingenuity.

Why It’s a Must-Watch For fans of the action genre and the Die Hard franchise, Die Hard 2 is a must-watch. It successfully replicates the formula that made the first film a hit while introducing enough new elements to stand on its own. The film is a testament to the enduring appeal of John McClane as a relatable action hero.

So, grab some popcorn and join us as we dive back into the snowy chaos of Die Hard 2. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or just looking for a high-stakes action film to spice up your holiday viewing, this film delivers on multiple levels. 🎬🔫👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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Bad Dads

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we're diving into the high-octane world of The Shadow Strays, a 2024 Indonesian action crime thriller that has taken the streaming giant Netflix by storm. Directed by the acclaimed Timo Tjahjanto, this film not only showcases exhilarating action sequences but also delves into deep emotional territories with its compelling characters and plot.

The Shadow Strays introduces us to Codename 13, brilliantly portrayed by Aurora Ribero. She is a 17-year-old assassin, known as a Shadow, within an international organization. The film kicks off with a botched mission in Japan that leads to her suspension and forces her back to Jakarta for a psychological retraining. However, the narrative quickly unfolds into a complex web of crime, betrayal, and personal redemption as she meets a young boy, Monji, setting off a chain of events that pulls her back into the violent underbelly of Jakarta.

Suspended and haunted by her past, 13 finds herself in Jakarta, next door to Monji and his mother, who are entangled with a human trafficker. After a series of violent incidents, Monji’s mother dies, and Monji vows revenge, pulling 13 back into a life she tried to leave behind. As 13 navigates her way through a network of crime syndicates and corrupt officials, the plot twists through scenes of intense action and strategic warfare, leading to a climax that challenges her beliefs and forces her to confront her darkest fears.

The Shadow Strays explores themes of identity and moral ambiguity. 13’s journey is a tumultuous exploration of her past and a quest for redemption that questions the black-and-white morality often associated with her line of work. The film poses significant questions about family, loyalty, and the cost of freedom in a world riddled with corruption.

For those who appreciate nuanced action films and are fans of international cinema, The Shadow Strays is a must-watch. It successfully combines action, emotional depth, and a rich narrative to create a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

So, tune in as we dissect The Shadow Strays, appreciating its craft and unraveling its complex layers. Whether you’re drawn to its thrilling action sequences or its deep dive into the psyche of its characters, there’s plenty to explore and discuss in this standout Indonesian thriller. 🎬👤👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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We love to hear from our listeners! By which I mean we tolerate it. If it hasn't been completely destroyed yet you can usually find us on twitter @dads_film, on Facebook Bad Dads Film Review, on email at baddadsjsy@gmail.com or on our website baddadsfilm.com.
 
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Bad Dads

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! Today, we’re diving into the charming and unexpectedly profound world of Marcel the Shell With Shoes On, a delightful film that started from humble beginnings as a series of popular YouTube shorts. Directed by Dean Fleischer-Camp and featuring the voice talent of Jenny Slate, this film brings a tiny shell named Marcel to life in a big way.

Marcel the Shell With Shoes On follows the daily adventures of Marcel, a tiny, one-eyed shell with a pair of pink shoes, living an introspective life in a vast, seemingly ordinary human-sized world. The film is shot in a pseudo-documentary style, capturing Marcel's observations and interactions with the world around him, turning mundane moments into profound reflections on life.

Marcel's life is filled with quirky and ingenious ways to navigate his oversized surroundings—from using honey as shampoo to skating on dust. However, the heart of the story unfolds when Marcel begins a quest to reunite with his long-lost shell family, turning his journey into an exploration of community, belonging, and the essence of home.

At its core, Marcel the Shell With Shoes On is about exploration—not just of physical spaces but also of internal landscapes. Marcel's journey is a metaphor for the search for identity and the meaning of home. The film beautifully captures how small experiences can have a significant impact on our understanding of the world and ourselves.

A Dad’s Take This film is perfect for a family movie night, especially for those with young children. It offers a blend of humor, adventure, and life lessons that can spark meaningful family discussions about resilience, creativity, and the importance of community.

For anyone who loves innovative storytelling and animation, Marcel the Shell With Shoes On is a must-watch. It’s a film that proves you don’t need epic landscapes or dramatic action to tell a compelling story; sometimes, a small shell with a big heart is all it takes.

So, join us as we explore the tiny yet vast world of Marcel, where every little detail offers a window into a larger narrative. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, Marcel’s journey is sure to inspire and captivate. 🎬🐚👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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Bad Dads