"Daddy Day
Care" was a surprisingly entertaining & upbeat
film from Eddie Murphy that I viewed immediately
following "Ichi the Killer." Yes, I know I'm
weird. Perhaps, that taints my rating for this
film. I truly wanted, even needed something
upbeat...and this film certainly fits the bill.
Let's face it...Eddie Murphy is making quite the
living off of family films...most of which are
fairly average, lightweight films that are safe
films for the entire family. In fact, "safe" is
a good word to describe these films.
Yet, this film separates itself in a couple
different ways for me. First, I am a major fan
of Steve Zahn...and there's almost no role I
prefer Zahn in than one involving children. His
role in "Happy, Texas" still brings a smile to
my face. He just has a chemistry with children
that is a joy to watch onscreen.
Murphy, who has made a career out of
questionable film choices, simply does a nice
job with family oriented films. Do they stretch
his talent? no. Do they showcase his humor? no.
Do they entertain? Generally, yes.
Also a joy in this film is Anjelica Huston...as
a competing "headmistress", she combines a
cartoonish quality with a satirical look at the
new millenium of daycare.
The film features a killer soundtrack, including
a live performance by Cheap Trick.
Overall, this film is certain lightweight...but,
I personally admire a decent family film that
doesn't resort to double entendres. I admire a
family film that is simply lighthearted, sweet
and fun. "Daddy Day Care" works on that level.
©
Written by Richard
Propes
TC Candler's Comment
N/A
Jacob
Hall's Comment
N/A
