Is Father Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Father is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Father Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2000, Father enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Father documents the tumultuous relationship between a widowed father, Ma Lisheng, and his school-age son, Ma Che. Under the direction of Wang Shuo, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Feng Xiaogang. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Father offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Father resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Father is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Father centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Father documents the tumultuous relationship between a widowed father, Ma Lisheng, and his school-age son, Ma Che. Though he works as a low-level party functionary during the day, he finds his greatest challenges in the raising of a son on his own. Alternating between trying to bond with his son (even getting drunk with him), and verbally accosting him, Ma is at a loss. One day the son decides that the best way for his father to stop harassing him, will be to find him a new wife, which he finds in the form of the mother of a school friend, Qing Huaiyuan. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2000 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Father has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Father sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Father (2000): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Father has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, Father stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2000 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Father movie hit or flop?
Father has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Father worth watching?
Father is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Father online?
Father may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Father movie hit or flop?
Father has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Father worth watching?
Father is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Father online?
Father may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Father?
Father is a Drama movie that follows: Father documents the tumultuous relationship between a widowed father, Ma Lisheng, and his school-age son, Ma Che. Though he works as a low-level party functionary during the day, he finds his greates...
Is Father family friendly?
Father is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Father available in?
Father is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Father documents the tumultuous relationship between a widowed father, Ma Lisheng, and his school-age son, Ma Che. Though he works as a low-level party functionary during the day, he finds his greatest challenges in the raising of a son on his own. Alternating between trying to bond with his son (even getting drunk with him), and verbally accosting him, Ma is at a loss. One day the son decides that the best way for his father to stop harassing him, will be to find him a new wife, which he finds in the form of the mother of a school friend, Qing Huaiyuan.
Critic Reviews
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