22 reviews
Worth A Watch On YouTube, But That's It.
I discovered Selfie Dad when I came across the DVD at Wal-Mart a couple of years ago. I passed it, but found it on YouTube back in February 2022, so I watched it. It wasn't awful, but I didn't fully like it either. It was strictly okay. I'll expand on that shortly.
The plot follows a Dad named Ben. He's a Christian who goes to church on Sunday, literally throws his Bible in the back of his car, and leaves it there until the next Sunday.
He also has a mid-life crisis and struggles at work. To boost himself more, he then decides to become a social media star. After deciding to commit to his faith more, he attempts to apply that to his YouTube like page.
Many of my reviews here on IMDB are about how horrible the bad Christian movies are and how well done the good ones are. Selfie Dad is in the middle of the spectrum here. Selfie Dad has many flaws that Christian movies do, such as a low budget and being overly preachy. Also, none of the actors were AWFUL, but there were only 3 stand-out performances to me. The movie often seemed slow as well.
That out of the way, there were many positives. The movie did in fact have a good message. Mind you, a good message does not mean it was a good movie, but that still is a merit of the movie. The lesson of course was that Christians should be more devoted to studying the Bible and being in devotion to God. I did like the message, and how it was applied to the modern age of technology.
Compared to God's Not Dead's lesson of atheists being God-hating jerks or Loving The Bad Man's lesson of falling in love with your rapist, Selfie Dad's lesson was pretty theologically sound and well done.
Not all of the actors' performances stood out to me- such as the minor characters, but as I said there were 3 stand out performances. 2 of them were from the Christian comedians- Micheal Jr. And Chonda Pierce. The other is the one that made me check out the film. Ben's daughter Hannah is played by Shelby Simmons, a wonderful young actress who is on the Disney Channel show Bunk'd.
The movie also has many comedic parts that are successful in making the viewer laugh. When Michael does a video about Jesus's sacrifice on the cross, he says "Mel Gibson was there, he shared his Passion." This made me laugh out loud, and I appreciated that reference to The Passion of the Christ, one of the best Christian movies ever made.
Karen Ambercrombie, who played Mrs. Clara in War Room (which Michael Jr. Is also in), talks to Ben's wife about the importance of prayer. She then asks: "Have you ever seen the movie War Room?" Mrs. Marcus shakes her head, leans in and whispers: "I don't really like Christian films". This gives Karen's face a mix of shock and disappointment. That reference was also hilarious.
For a final example, Michael Jr. Talks to a Christian friend about Christians who are over-saved, for example ones who only sleep on bed sheets because Jesus is their comforter. That's a homage to his Christian stand up comedy, and I appreciated that.
While there were certainly good elements to Selfie Dad, I'm half and half on the recommendation. Again, I did not hate the movie, but I can't say I liked it either. There were just bits of it that I liked. I'm glad I saw it once, but I'm in no rush to see it again.
I saw this movie on YouTube, and if you are going to see it, I suggest seeing it there or streaming it if possible, rather than purchasing the DVD right away. Selfie Dad wouldn't be my go-to for a recommendation of a good Christian movie, but at most it's worth one watch.
Reverse Recommendations: If you want to see Michael Jr.'s comedic genius at its best, I suggest his special Laughing On Purpose. This 56 minute video is also on YouTube.
To see Shelby Simmon's acting talent at its best, see Season 4 of Bunk'd. Finally, to see a better funny Christian film, I would recommend a movie like Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie or Bruce Almighty.
*Originally reviewed on 4/16/22.*
The plot follows a Dad named Ben. He's a Christian who goes to church on Sunday, literally throws his Bible in the back of his car, and leaves it there until the next Sunday.
He also has a mid-life crisis and struggles at work. To boost himself more, he then decides to become a social media star. After deciding to commit to his faith more, he attempts to apply that to his YouTube like page.
Many of my reviews here on IMDB are about how horrible the bad Christian movies are and how well done the good ones are. Selfie Dad is in the middle of the spectrum here. Selfie Dad has many flaws that Christian movies do, such as a low budget and being overly preachy. Also, none of the actors were AWFUL, but there were only 3 stand-out performances to me. The movie often seemed slow as well.
That out of the way, there were many positives. The movie did in fact have a good message. Mind you, a good message does not mean it was a good movie, but that still is a merit of the movie. The lesson of course was that Christians should be more devoted to studying the Bible and being in devotion to God. I did like the message, and how it was applied to the modern age of technology.
Compared to God's Not Dead's lesson of atheists being God-hating jerks or Loving The Bad Man's lesson of falling in love with your rapist, Selfie Dad's lesson was pretty theologically sound and well done.
Not all of the actors' performances stood out to me- such as the minor characters, but as I said there were 3 stand out performances. 2 of them were from the Christian comedians- Micheal Jr. And Chonda Pierce. The other is the one that made me check out the film. Ben's daughter Hannah is played by Shelby Simmons, a wonderful young actress who is on the Disney Channel show Bunk'd.
The movie also has many comedic parts that are successful in making the viewer laugh. When Michael does a video about Jesus's sacrifice on the cross, he says "Mel Gibson was there, he shared his Passion." This made me laugh out loud, and I appreciated that reference to The Passion of the Christ, one of the best Christian movies ever made.
Karen Ambercrombie, who played Mrs. Clara in War Room (which Michael Jr. Is also in), talks to Ben's wife about the importance of prayer. She then asks: "Have you ever seen the movie War Room?" Mrs. Marcus shakes her head, leans in and whispers: "I don't really like Christian films". This gives Karen's face a mix of shock and disappointment. That reference was also hilarious.
For a final example, Michael Jr. Talks to a Christian friend about Christians who are over-saved, for example ones who only sleep on bed sheets because Jesus is their comforter. That's a homage to his Christian stand up comedy, and I appreciated that.
While there were certainly good elements to Selfie Dad, I'm half and half on the recommendation. Again, I did not hate the movie, but I can't say I liked it either. There were just bits of it that I liked. I'm glad I saw it once, but I'm in no rush to see it again.
I saw this movie on YouTube, and if you are going to see it, I suggest seeing it there or streaming it if possible, rather than purchasing the DVD right away. Selfie Dad wouldn't be my go-to for a recommendation of a good Christian movie, but at most it's worth one watch.
Reverse Recommendations: If you want to see Michael Jr.'s comedic genius at its best, I suggest his special Laughing On Purpose. This 56 minute video is also on YouTube.
To see Shelby Simmon's acting talent at its best, see Season 4 of Bunk'd. Finally, to see a better funny Christian film, I would recommend a movie like Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie or Bruce Almighty.
*Originally reviewed on 4/16/22.*
- filmbuff-05706
- Oct 16, 2023
- Permalink
Of Course a Good Message, but Just another Michael Jr. video
This was not a bad movie, but it was not a great movie. It was very low budget. If you have watched any Michael Jr. Standup, or have seen him, that is all this movie is. It is just a showcase for his standup, not a great message or anything.
It is not an Obsession.
- nogodnomasters
- Jun 28, 2020
- Permalink
More like first draft dad
- brynnedouglasstrange
- Aug 13, 2020
- Permalink
A comedy without any humor...
Right, well as I sat down to watch the 2020 movie "Selfie Dad", I must admit that I was expecting a comedy.
However, not even a single smile, much less any actual laughs managed to come from watching this movie. This was a massive swing and a miss, and I can in all honesty say that I was not entertained by the storyline presented in "Selfie Dad", as written and directed by Brad J. Silverman.
I have zero interest in the ludicrous desire some people have to film themselves and upload to platforms such a YouTube and such. I just don't get it. What is the whole point of it? Narcissism at its finest, pure and simple. And since I have no interest in the people doing this, and thus doesn't watch their YouTube channels and such, then watching a movie about it sure didn't make for proper entertainment.
The storyline in "Selfie Dad" was just a swing and a miss in terms of providing proper entertainment. And the fact that the story was so immensely slow-paced just prolonged the suffering of watching the movie.
The acting in the movie was adequate for the most parts, though this is hardly a movie that boasts stellar performances.
My rating of "Selfie Dad" lands on a three out of ten stars. Not for the story, not for the acting, but for the production value and editing, pure and simple.
However, not even a single smile, much less any actual laughs managed to come from watching this movie. This was a massive swing and a miss, and I can in all honesty say that I was not entertained by the storyline presented in "Selfie Dad", as written and directed by Brad J. Silverman.
I have zero interest in the ludicrous desire some people have to film themselves and upload to platforms such a YouTube and such. I just don't get it. What is the whole point of it? Narcissism at its finest, pure and simple. And since I have no interest in the people doing this, and thus doesn't watch their YouTube channels and such, then watching a movie about it sure didn't make for proper entertainment.
The storyline in "Selfie Dad" was just a swing and a miss in terms of providing proper entertainment. And the fact that the story was so immensely slow-paced just prolonged the suffering of watching the movie.
The acting in the movie was adequate for the most parts, though this is hardly a movie that boasts stellar performances.
My rating of "Selfie Dad" lands on a three out of ten stars. Not for the story, not for the acting, but for the production value and editing, pure and simple.
- paul_haakonsen
- Feb 28, 2021
- Permalink
Clean comedy
Good message that you want to watch with your kids, but actually enjoy yourself as well. Decent acting. Michael Jr is a favorite stand up comic of our family and he does well in this movie. We appreciate that the movie has NO CUSSING!
- laurargreen
- Jun 22, 2022
- Permalink
Laughter, Tears & a Great Message
This movie had a few "cheesy" moments which were acknowledged in the actual content of the film...making it quite funny! It dealt with real life issues with humor and offered great takeaway messages. Michael Jr. is hilarious and inspiring all at once. His movie did not disappoint!
Funny and enjoyable
It was better than expected and pretty funny. I appreciated that the movie described the reality of sin and misery that comes without Christ. It was also encouraging that the Bible was actually quoted accurately as well (in proper context) throughout the film.
Great family film!
Michael Jr was great as a husband and father trying to do right by his family. It was funny and charming!
- barbmalburg
- Jun 26, 2020
- Permalink
Good, Clean Family Movie!
I was surprised by, and enjoyed this movie. I actually cried during the last ten minutes because I recently lost my own father in April of this year. Watching this movie reminded me of the conversations we aren't going to have anymore. It is a feel good movie though, considering all that we have going on in the world right now. I was able to literally get away, be encouraged, and entertained for a little while. I would encourage you to watch this movie if you want to feel better!
- adchristopher
- Aug 2, 2021
- Permalink
Thoughtfully funny and emotional
Take a chance. Alone or with family or friend get comfy sit down watch this movie. One thing is for sure we can all agree prayer is helpful. Times get intimidating or we fall off our paths or insecurities and fears creep in. Finding balance and joy and calm become a challenge. Great movie for teens to watch too. Realistic movie about a families struggle in the real world. It's how one reacts to the hardships and struggles. How we care for ourselves and others. Some seek drugs and alcohol or sex to avoid reality. What do you do when days weeks years feel heavy and depressing? Well the best way is to focus on yourself to fix the issue but Jesus Christ will be the one to pull you back up. Amen.
- nanettemeau
- Jan 14, 2023
- Permalink
Fun film with solid message, when the world needs it.
The message couldn't be more timely in our broken world. How great that the writers could put this inside a comedy wrapper! Michael Jr. and Chonda Pierce are awesome. Was great seeing James Denton, Karen Abercrombie, and even veterans like Tom Dooley. The acting was really top notch. I hope everyone who's searching for something more, will just download Selfie Dad. You're going to be entertained for sure, and your life might change, too.
Good family entertainment
A good family movie covering some of life's serious topics, in a light-hearted easy-to-digest way, using comedy.
Don't be put off by the viewer ratings, watch it and see for yourself.
Wonderful Film!
This was entertaining, funny, and heart warming. A surprising strong cast and acting performance. In the end, It begs the question, "Who does not want to be a better dad?"
- jon-brekke
- May 7, 2022
- Permalink
Great looking family movie with wonderful message
A perfect family movie well suited in time of struggle in the world. Characters play well. Beautiful imagery.
Need More Family Films Like This
Most of us are used to negative and drama filled movies but what if the world had more Christian based videos/movies. More love, more meaningful messages and more direction towards the creator. How Awesome It Will Be !!
- joannlouis
- Oct 26, 2021
- Permalink
Funny and Motivating
A terrific family film that entertains and motivates. Michael Jr. is awesome - he will make you laugh. The take-away messages are timely (very) as well as timeless. The importance of family, prayer and the Bible are themes presented in a light-hearted story about a modern-day family. Both parents and kids will enjoy this film, and it may change some lives, too.
- loripetersenwaite
- Jun 28, 2020
- Permalink
Second Chances Can Make All the Difference
This was a hidden gem I watched on PureFlix. Michael Jr. Is a funny guy. His performance was surprisingly good in this dramedy about a man who gave up his comedy dreams but got a second chance to make that dream a reality. This was an inspiring story. Not many of us get the chance to do over parenthood and marriage, and in the process, see God prove that He knows how to bless us beyond our wildest dreams. It was great to see clean comics like Chonda Pierce and Michael Jr. Deliver such heartwarming performances. The cameo by Karen Abercrombie was priceless. I would recommend this movie to anyone. I'm not sure why we don't see PureFlix as a watch option on IMBD, but hope that will show up in the future.
- donnadlongino
- Sep 17, 2023
- Permalink
Fun Family Favorite!! 🤣
If you have any worries...they will dissipate while getting lost in a fun story that will seeing you laughing until the credits roll!!
- tera-762-787525
- Jul 2, 2020
- Permalink
Gotta win an Oscar
The Movie delivered great performances along with attacking a difficult subject perfectly. It was so emotional I had my wife's boyfriend console me with tears already dripped all the way to my legs. It's 100% what the world needs in a time like this.
- laytonthornley-24453
- Aug 10, 2020
- Permalink
We need more films like this!
My wife and I watched this movie and THOROUGHLY enjoyed it! Great message, amazingly funny moments, and great for the entire family. We need more films like this where everyone can laugh together and get a Godly message out of it. Please come out with more movies like this Michael Jr.
Inspired me to go to church, and start believing in the Lord our Savior!!
I was sitting in the living room with my very religious father when he put this movie on. I was not expecting much but from the opening scene I was hooked. This is the greatest film I have ever laid eyes on. The acting is superb and I felt myself laughing constantly. The combination of Michael Jrs (Ben Marcus) inspirational approach to religion, alongside his comedic and playful approach to life encouraged me to start going to church again after years of unbelieving!
This movie changed my life for the better. I am so happy that Michael Jr. Was able to make this film and I hope that everyone watching it has the same reaction as I.
Thank you, -John Markus.
This movie changed my life for the better. I am so happy that Michael Jr. Was able to make this film and I hope that everyone watching it has the same reaction as I.
Thank you, -John Markus.
- rileyge-57818
- Dec 22, 2021
- Permalink