MOVIE REVIEW
My Dead Dad
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Genre: Documentary, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 25m
Director(s): Erik Osterholm, Abby Ellis
Where To Watch: Shown at the 2024 Santa Barbara International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: MY DEAD DAD starts with a premise that steers clear of anything I could have expected, presenting a narrative ripe with depth and introspective charm. As Olivia Grey transports her father's remains from the lively urban sprawl of Washington D.C. to the serene vistas of Martha's Vineyard, the film unfolds as a dual voyage—both a physical journey and an exploration of personal discovery. This trip isn't just about fulfilling her father, Christopher Grey's last wishes; it's a journey into the essence of familial ties and self-realization. How far would you go to complete someone’s last wishes? Think as bizarrely as possible; this will likely be a step further!

The core of MY DEAD DAD revolves around Christopher Grey's important, albeit unsettling, and uniquely odd request. Grey's life as a prominent figure and a revered architecture critic forms a backdrop to the story and grounds this journey with a sense of humanity. His career achievements, while notable, pale in comparison to the legacy he wishes to leave as a father. The film utilizes this request as a plot device and as a window into the complex dynamics between parent and child, examining how a parent's influence extends beyond their presence. The key takeaway from the film is that Grey pushes to help his daughter accomplish something even after he is gone.

Directors Erik Osterholm and Abby Ellis bring a distinct layer of scrutiny to the film, challenging the impersonal rituals often accompanying death. Their directorial approach encourages the audience to reflect on how legacies are preserved and celebrated. Osterholm’s experience with globally acclaimed documentaries and Ellis’s investigative skills blend to infuse MY DEAD DAD with an emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging narrative.

A revealing discussion and Q&A with the directors provide insight into the creative challenges and decisions that shaped the film. Their meticulous handling of the sensitive subject of Christopher’s posthumous journey showcases their commitment to delivering an impactful and respectful story.

Balancing humor with the weighty themes of loss and remembrance, MY DEAD DAD captures Olivia's odd yet touching odyssey. This mix of light-hearted moments with serious undertones entertains and enriches the viewer's experience, paving the way for a deeper investigation into the themes introduced in this film.

With the creative team behind MY DEAD DAD working to expand this into a feature-length journey, it has the potential to be one of my top documentaries of all time. Is MY DEAD DAD just the opening chapter to a more detailed story about how unconventional last requests can reshape family narratives? I’m genuinely curious to see where this story goes next!

MY DEAD DAD transcends the typical “road trip” documentary. It delves into how we confront loss, cherish memories, and honor our loved ones through unique tributes that defy norms. This film explores how the ties we forge during our lives continue to influence us, prompting viewers to reconsider traditional perspectives on life, death, and legacy. It’s a must-watch for those who appreciate stories that challenge societal expectations and offer fresh viewpoints on universal themes.

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[photo courtesy of ARTIFACTUAL MEDIA]

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