IMDb 5.9 1995 HD

Just Like Dad

Just Like Dad

1995
Comedy Drama Family
101 min NR USA
4.3 / 10
5.9 IMDB

Embarrassed because he perceives his father as dull, a creative boy invents himself a new, more exciting one and finds the popularity he craves.

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Blair Treu
Starring
Wallace Shawn / Ben Diskin / Nick Cassavetes / Frank Gerrish / Jarrett Lennon / Laura Innes / Michael Tucci / George Fisher

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

charming predictable earnest heartwarming functional sweet adequate superficial serviceable light

Reviews

P
Penelope Croft
May 15, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

The core idea behind "Just Like Dad" is its strongest asset: a boy's quest for popularity leads him to invent a more appealing father. This setup, while ripe for comedic exploration, is handled with a light touch that…

R
Rupert Davies
May 15, 2026
2.5 / 5
2.5

"Just Like Dad" attempts to tackle the perennial theme of adolescent embarrassment with a creative, albeit clunky, premise. The performances are adequate, with Wallace Shawn providing a steady presence, but the overall impact is hampered by a lack…

B
Beatrice Holloway
May 15, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

This charming 1995 picture, "Just Like Dad," offers a surprisingly nuanced look at the adolescent yearning for acceptance. The creative boy's invention of a more exciting father, a narrative driven by Wallace Shawn's understated presence, provides ample opportunity…

A
Arthur Penhaligon
May 15, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

In "Just Like Dad," the central conceit of a boy crafting an idealised father for social gain provides fertile ground for comedy and introspection. The film, unfortunately, doesn't always capitalise on its potential, leaning into predictable plot points.…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 15, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

Wallace Shawn anchors "Just Like Dad" with a performance that navigates the fine line between paternal dullness and hidden depth. The film's premise, revolving around a boy's creative fabrication of a cooler father figure to gain social currency,…

FAQs

The humour in "Just Like Dad" likely stems from the comedic situations arising from the boy's elaborate deception. The contrast between his invented father and his actual parent would create opportunities for situational comedy. Furthermore, the reactions of his peers and the unintended consequences of his fabricated identity probably contribute to the film's lighthearted, yet potentially poignant, exploration of adolescent social pressures.