About My Father 2023 Movie Review
The Collins family plans to celebrate July 4th at their summer home over the weekend. They have a very special connection to this event, since their ancestors immigrated to America from England as pilgrims on the famous historic sailing ship “Mayflower”. The Collins’ have also invited Sebastian (Sebastian Maniscalco), hotel manager, friend of their daughter Ellie (Leslie Bibb) and son-in-law-to-be.
Sebastian also has a typical immigrant tradition, but not as impressive: His father Salvo ( Robert De Niro ) came from his native Sicily in his youth to fulfill his American dream here. He has worked in the hair salon all his life to give his son a better life. This also includes keeping the money together, which is why Salvo always orders from the middle of the menu in the restaurant or gives his child a self-made skateboard.
The Collins don’t need such trouble: Bill (David Rasche) has made it rich as an entrepreneur, his wife Tigger ( Kim Cattrall ) is a member of the US Senate. They own several luxurious properties, while Salvo lives with his son. He can’t bring himself to leave his father alone on a day like this and reluctantly lets Ellie persuade him to bring him to the party. On site, Sebastian’s fears seem to be confirmed that Salvo will embarrass him. But Sebastian doesn’t cut a particularly elegant figure either and gradually realizes that family is the most important thing…
Characters and action are closely based on the story of their authors; Maniscalco’s real-life father, Salvo, was extensively available as an advisor to the crew, and particularly to his cast member, Robert De Niro.
