Just in time for the recent Father’s Day, Netflix premiered its original film “Fatherhood” last June 18, starring comedian-producer Kevin Hart. It was originally planned to be released by Sony Pictures Releasing in the theaters if not because of the current COVID-19 pandemic. In the refreshing and heart-clutching film directed by Paul Weitz, Hart was given a chance to show off some slices of his dramatic acting. Presented by the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions, “Fatherhood” is based on Matthew “Matt” Logelin’s (played by Hart) 2011 memoir, “Two Kisses for Maddy: A Memoir of Loss and Love”.

The storyline begins at the funeral of Matt’s wife, Liz (Deborah Ayorinde), who died of a pulmonary embolism shortly after giving birth to their daughter, Maddy (Melody Hurd). Gutted by the recent events, Matt opposed the request of Liz’s mother, Marian (Alfre Woodard), to let her take their daughter back to Minnesota. Matt insisted on juggling raising Maddy alone and managing a demanding job. Matt’s friends, Jordan and Oscar, played by Lil Rel Howery and Anthony Carrigan respectively, were to the rescue for some parenting assistance to Maddy. The movie showcases a stir of emotions—from the devastation of Liz’s loss, the questions about Matt’s parenting skills and decisions, to some visual gags like putting the diaper genie under a toy basketball hoop.

In this rollercoaster film, Hart joins a long list of comedic actors who have ventured into dramatic acting, showing his emotional side not regularly similar to the likes of his previous famous comedy films and shows.