The Kids Grow Up: A New Film on Fatherhood

Today is June 1st, which marks the kick-off to the Media March until Father’s Day on June 19th. That’s right!  You will see a glut of media segments, articles, books, films, etc. with a focus or “spin” capturing the essence of involved, caring, active, engaged, and committed dads. Of course, we will aim to share as much relevant content as we can.

The stay-at-home dad usually becomes the superhero in the midst of this media frenzy.  Consequently, many of the active dads in our community agree that the working father who is juggling work-life balance and carving out time for his family is the true hero. Maybe more of these dads will get some more press in the next few weeks – we shall see. While I agree that most media outlets pull out all of the stops to publish the heartwarming and touching story that hooks you in within the next two weeks … I am more impressed at the amount of dad-centric content that is now being shared in months other than June. A true testament to the evolution of dad and modern parenthood!

So, without further delay…here is some information about a new film that is Premiering on HBO on Father’s Day (June 19th).  A.O. Scott, a movie critic whose opinions I truly value, calls the film “Remarkable.”

The Kids Grow Up, by New York City dad, Doug Block, aims to be a moving film about his relationship with his only child, Lucy.  The film “chronicles Lucy’s emotionally fraught last year at home before leaving for college. Moving seamlessly between past, present, and the fast-approaching future, Block has not only crafted a loving portrait of a girl transitioning into womanhood, but also a deeply poignant look at parenting and what it means to let go.

This time of transition comes with its fair share of struggles. To his credit, Block does not shy away from these moments, nor from the humorous yet occasionally tough analysis his wife offers. The result is a personal story told with such honesty and intimacy that a singular experience unfolds into a universal tale of parenthood, marriage, and family— making this a film that fathers, mothers, sons and daughters can equally appreciate.”

I have not had the opportunity to view the film yet, but I expect it is going to be excellent.

See The Kids Grow Up – trailer from Copacetic Pictures on Vimeo.