Luchina Fisher's Netflix documentary, "The Dads," presents a unique perspective on fatherhood by following six dads on a fishing trip in rural Oklahoma. This isn't your typical fishing expedition; these men are united by a common and profound experience: each of them is the father of a transgender child.
The film introduces us to Stephen Chukumba, father of Hobbes; Frank Gonzales, father of Libby; Jose Trujillo, father of Dan; Peter Betz, father of Samantha; and Wayne Maines, father of Nicole. They are hosted by Dennis Shephard, whose son Matthew tragically passed away years earlier.
These fathers, from diverse backgrounds, candidly discuss the challenges they've faced, both externally from societal prejudice and internally, as they navigated accepting their children’s gender identities. One father recalls a poignant Christmas where his daughter received traditionally male clothes, leaving her longing for Santa to transform her into a girl. Another shares a harrowing near-death experience that led him to fully embrace his child's identity.
The documentary also delves into deeper fears, especially for Stephen, whose son is both Black and Trans, making him particularly vulnerable in a society where such identities often attract bigotry.
Dennis Shephard shares a memory of a fishing trip with his son Matthew in 1998, which poignantly turned out to be their last. Matthew Shephard's name is well-known; he was a young student brutally murdered in a hate crime for being gay. While Dennis does not dwell on the tragedy, he fondly remembers their time together, directing those interested in Matthew's story to the documentary "Matt Shephard is a Friend of Mine."
The common thread that ties these fathers together is their unwavering commitment to their children's well-being, a stark contrast to the attitudes of some fathers who struggle to accept their children's gender or sexual identities. Their stories are a source of inspiration, urging other fathers to cast aside their prejudices for the sake of their children's happiness and safety.
However, at a brief 11 minutes, the documentary feels like an incomplete narrative. While it provides a glimpse into these fathers' lives and struggles, the viewer is left yearning for more. The desire for a deeper dive into their stories isn't just about understanding their challenges, but also about sharing their experiences with a wider audience, particularly parents grappling with their children's transitions.
"The Dads" may be brief, but its impact is significant. It's a quiet, reflective piece that showcases the unconditional love these six fathers have for their children, providing a powerful example for parents everywhere. While other documentaries may explore similar themes in more depth, this short film stands out for its intimate portrayal of these remarkable men and their journeys toward acceptance.
