Father's Day is an engaging indie flick written and directed by Steve Beauregard, a veteran of Hallmark Christmas movies taking a definite cinematic turn with this low-budget, rewarding effort. 

In the film, a desperate middle-aged man has 87 minutes to find a young homeless alcoholic who is said to hold the answers to questions that have haunted him his entire life. Of course, it's destined to not be a surprise that there's much more to Father's Day and it's really Beauregard's storytelling that sells the film and keeps us engaged with this unique world. 

While Father's Day has its unique turns, it has its social awareness also fully intact. It's a nice, important balance as nothing here ever feels like a gimmick and these characters feel rich and honest. Everett (Preston Wolf), Quinn (Dennis Sanchez), and Steve (Beauregard) are hot on the heels of a story about the homeless. There's a time limit offered up, however, it's not immediately apparent why. Their intended subject, Jack (Travis Campbell), is found and begins sharing the roots of his story. 

Already available via the major streaming platforms, Father's Day tells a meaningful story and tells it well. While this narrative serves as its foundation, Beauregard finds meaningful places to take the story and the film becomes surprisingly complex for such a low-budget effort. While Beauregard doesn't stretch too far beyond his means, he does stretch and it's cool to see that happen. 

While the film's ensemble is perfectly fine, the truth is it was the story that kept me engaged and wondering where we were headed. I enjoy small indie casts like this one and it'll never get old to watch a low-budget filmmaking really making a serious go of it. While Father's Day isn't going to be the best film you see this year, it's a film worthy of your viewing time thanks to Beauregard's storytelling and the small, cohesive ensemble cast. 

Father's Day is the kind of film that reminds me why I've long enjoyed the indie scene. There's something about watching a cinematic effort come to fruition and a cast and crew making it all work with a little cash, a lot of passion, and a love for the power of film. If you get a chance, definitely check it out.

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic