Tynan DeLong's microbudget comedy "Dad & Step-Dad", offers more than comical relief. The film smartly portrays the struggles of two adult men, Jim (Colin Burgess) and Dave (Anthony Oberbeck), battling their internal inadequacies and seeking validation through petty competitions and awkward conversations with their 13-year-old ward, Branson (Brian Fiddyment), in a tranquil forest setting. The film's narrative closely resembles Adam McKay's "Step Brothers", yet carries the subdued sensitivity of mumblecore filmmaking.
The film's humor stems from the dry delivery of the lines and the awkward silences that follow outrageous dialogues, providing a cover to their personal feelings of failure and self-doubt. There's a palpable tension between Jim's guilt-ridden demeanor and Dave's blind optimism, lending a subtle subtext to the seemingly juvenile storyline. The men’s pursuit of validation ultimately becomes a projection of their own failures, reminding us that the story isn't about Branson, but them.
"Dad & Step-Dad" stands out as a film that is more emotionally complex and intellectually rich than it initially appears. It masterfully takes advantage of the limitations imposed by its budget and location, creating compelling character interactions within a consistently visually engaging environment.
The performances, particularly Oberbeck's, manage to raise the film to a level beyond mere parody, embodying complex emotional struggles that make their characters relatable. The movie’s portrayal of man-child syndrome serves to remind viewers that maturity doesn't always come with age, and wisdom isn't an inevitable product of growing old.
"Dad & Step-Dad" sets itself apart by offering a profound insight into the human condition beneath its externally light narrative of rivalry-turned-bromance. The movie explores how adults, despite their inherent flaws, can often be children trying to navigate the unforgiving trails of life without a perfect handbook. By the film's end, these imperfect father figures realize they do not need to face life alone, paving a path for an unconventional yet sincere relationship.
