Goodrich Movie Review : Michael Keaton is the heart and soul of this clichéd film

Story: After Andy’s second wife checks into rehab, he is left to care for their twins. Juggling his parental duties and managing an art gallery, he turns to his older daughter Grace for help.

Review: ‘Goodrich’ is the kind of film that leaves you feeling uplifted after the credits roll. Though the storyline is predictable, focusing on a protagonist who loses his professional battle but strengthens his personal relationships, it’s Michael Keaton’s powerful performance that keeps the film afloat. The plot may feel familiar and somewhat clichéd, but Keaton’s nuanced portrayal adds depth and sincerity to an otherwise conventional narrative. Despite the flaws that are hard to miss, ‘Goodrich’ manages to offer a warm embrace, making you overlook its imperfections in favour of its heartfelt message.

The film centers on Andy Goodrich (Michael Keaton), an LA-based art dealer and gallery owner. When his second wife, Naomi (Laura Benanti), checks into rehab, Andy is left to care for their two young children. Meanwhile, his gallery faces financial trouble as many of his artists have moved on. A glimmer of hope appears when an artist agrees to showcase her work at his gallery, but a last-minute setback seals the fate of the gallery's closure. Desperate and overwhelmed, Andy turns to his pregnant daughter Grace (Mila Kunis) for support as he navigates his crumbling life.

This film avoids heightened drama, offering a slice of life that feels relatable and real. The lead character openly acknowledges his flaws, including his imperfect paternal instincts. The heartfelt narrative, woven together with strong emotional threads, gradually draws you into Andy Goodrich’s world. Keaton’s scenes with his young children and older daughter are the film’s most poignant moments, capturing the vulnerability of a father who longs to do more for his children but feels powerless to do so. These moments highlight the deep emotional core of the story, making it resonate even more.

Michael Keaton delivers a powerful performance as Andy Goodrich, showcasing an impressive range that’s striking, especially after his recent role in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.’ He masterfully embodies the character's humanity, rescuing a film that leans heavily on familiar tropes. Mila Kunis excels as Grace in a solid supporting role, while Andie MacDowell makes a brief yet impactful appearance at the end. The two young kids are the true scene-stealers, effortlessly capturing your heart. ‘Goodrich’ has its heart in the right place—if only it were in better shape overall.