Daddy Daycare (2003): Father's Day

June 12, 2018

So, I saw this movie when it first came out, and even though I was a preteen I thought it was just okay. Upon rewatching it, I think it was better than I remembered it and I honestly don't remember why I thought it was so bad and why the critics were so hard on it. Is it a masterpiece? No. Does it have some mediocre slapstick comedy? Yes. But, it's honestly a heartwarming and decently original film. This film follows two dads who get laid off and, upon realizing their neighborhood's lack of decent affordable child care open a daycare. They struggle at first but grow successful.  I may be biased as someone who has previously worked in child care, but I completely relate to how overwhelming it can be to manage 20 children at once, but then you become so invested in their development and learn how to do it and it is incredibly rewarding. It's especially refreshing to see the role of a caregiver from men in the film. This movie subverts lots of traditional views of child-rearing as a woman's job and I personally think it's a great pick for Father's Day. It's a little corny, but it's an enjoyable watch. Also, it has a surprisingly kick-ass soundtrack.

Netflix available? No

Hulu available? Yes

Xfinity available? Yes

Holiday rating: 9 dads