The Good Father
The Good Father

The Good Father

1985Movie90 minEnglish

Bill is a man who's very bitter about his divorce and losing custody of his son. So, when one of his friends is being sued for divorce by his wife so that she can enter a lesbian relationship, Bill decides to help his friend gain custody of his son...in any way that they can devise, including using a sleazeball lawyer. But while Bill feels that feminism has robbed him of his family, he begins to be appalled at what he and Roger have done.

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IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Director: Michael Caton-JonesGenres: Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A lonely, middle-aged writer, Bill Hooper, struggles with the recent death of his estranged wife. He finds himself drawn into a complex and increasingly dangerous relationship with Jane Forbes, a young woman who claims to be his daughter. As their connection deepens, Bill becomes entangled in Jane's turbulent life, leading him down a path of manipulation and emotional turmoil.

Critical Reception

The Good Father was critically acclaimed upon its release, particularly for Anthony Hopkins' intense and nuanced performance. It was recognized for its dark exploration of family dynamics, secrets, and the psychological toll of obsession. The film was lauded for its suspenseful narrative and masterful direction, cementing its status as a powerful drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Anthony Hopkins delivers a tour-de-force performance that is both compelling and disturbing.
  • The film skillfully builds suspense through its exploration of a fraught and manipulative relationship.
  • A dark and thought-provoking drama that delves into the complexities of family and obsession.

Google audience: Audience reception information for Google reviews is not readily available for this older film.

Awards & Accolades

Anthony Hopkins won the Evening Standard British Film Award for Best Actor for his role. The film also received nominations for other awards.

Fun Fact

Anthony Hopkins reportedly found the role of Bill Hooper so psychologically demanding that he requested a therapist be on set during filming.

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