True Dads With Bruce Willis

Reviewed by:
Patrick Richardson

At two hours, this documentary about fatherhood is about one hour and 55 minutes longer than an embarrassing sex talk with Pops—and at times, even more awkward. Bruce Willis narrates as six grown men discuss and cry about what it means for them to be a father and how their roles differ from the La-Z-Boy parenting of previous generations. As the dads dole out heartfelt tales of abandonment, abuse, and tragedy, celebrity guest dads like Cedric the Entertainer, Matt Lauer, and Alec Baldwin dispense simple-minded fatherly advice that would scarcely help anyone beyond Scott Peterson. In fairness, True Dads isn't all bad: NASCAR driver Kerry Earnhardt's story of his adoption and reconciliation with his famous biological father is particularly interesting, and the impact the Columbia space shuttle explosion had on one father and son is touching. But for the most part, True Dads takes itself too seriously. Sure, we've always wanted to see Matt Lauer cry, but it's no fun if dysentery isn't the cause.

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