BLOOD FATHER (2016)

The written companion

Draft companion · Awaiting editorial review

Blood Father: Familiar Action, Different Degrees of Investment

Seth brings Blood Father to the group, and the responses separate appreciation of a rugged leading performance from enthusiasm for the film around it. Matt enjoys seeing a version of Mel Gibson's screen presence that reminds him of earlier roles.

Dan is less persuaded. He thinks the story follows a familiar action pattern, although he gives it credit for placing the action where it is needed rather than constantly piling on explosions. His difficulty connecting with the daughter leaves the central danger less involving than it could be.

Cayla and Matt also see unused potential in Diego Luna's role. Casting an actor they are interested in raises expectations that a brief, underdeveloped presence cannot fully satisfy.

Dan gives it four out of ten and does not expect to return to it. Matt's warmer response to the lead performance shows why the conversation remains worth having: a familiar formula can still work for someone who finds the right person carrying it, while leaving another viewer wanting more from the characters.

Can a strong, familiar screen presence make this kind of action story worth your time? Which relationship or supporting character needed more development for Blood Father to work for you?

Watch their Blood Father discussion ↗

Based on auto-generated captions. Dan's rating uses the episode's original ten-point scale. The full discussion includes spoilers.