Come to Daddy

Synopsis

Come to Daddy is a dark comedy-thriller that centers around Norval (Elijah Wood), a young man who travels to a remote coastal cabin to reconnect with his estranged father, whom he has never met. The journey takes an unexpected turn as Norval encounters a strained and hostile father, played by Stephen McHattie, at their meeting. As tensions escalate, long-buried secrets are unveiled, leading Norval into a surreal, twisted web of deceit and horror. Lauded for its unique blend of humor and suspense, the film ventures into psychological territory while exploring themes of family, identity, and the consequences of past actions. The beautifully shot, eerie backdrop enhances the film’s uneasy atmosphere, keeping viewers engaged as Norval navigates the sinister dynamics with his father and other unexpected characters. With sharp writing and a standout performance from Wood, Come to Daddy is a gripping exploration of the complexities of familial relationships and the shadows they can cast.

Cast

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  Elijah Wood

  Norval Greenwood

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  Stephen McHattie

  Gordon

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  Michael Smiley

  Jethro

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  Madeleine Sami

  Gladys

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  Martin Donovan

  Brian

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  Ona Grauer

  Precious

Reviews

Come to Daddy received a mixed but largely favorable response from critics, praising its offbeat humor and gripping narrative. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an impressive 88% approval rating, with critics highlighting its unique tone and Elijah Wood’s performance. The New York Times commented, "It’s a film that elevates absurdity into the realm of genuine thrill," while Variety noted that it blends genres effectively, stating, "the madness escalates in thrilling ways, leading to a satisfying conclusion". However, some critiques pointed out moments of uneven pacing, with Metacritic giving it a score of 64/100, indicating mixed or average reviews. A reviewer at IndieWire mentioned, "Despite some narrative flaws, the film's audacity and gripping moments make it a noteworthy watch". Users on IMDb rated it a 6.0 out of 10, with audiences recognizing its quirky style while desiring deeper character development. Overall, Come to Daddy stands out for its intriguing premise and distinct flavor, even if it doesn't resonate with everyone in the same way. It's a film that invites intrigue and psychological tension wrapped in a comedic facade.