Paul Weitz’s fact-based dramedy, Fatherhood, successfully mixes sophisticated drama with the occasional silly comedy. The result of which is a genuinely heartfelt experience without the excess sap. It should be noted that the film owes most of these achievements to its star, Kevin Hart, who centres the film with the requisite emotional resonance. You see, the inherently funny actor/comedian is as endearing as ever here, committing to an understated performance brimming with heart. Of course, this isn’t Kevin Hart’s first foray into the realm of drama - may I recommend 2017’s The Upside? Regardless, it remains impressive to see the typically frenetic jokester bring his talents down to Earth just enough to deliver real-world authenticity. I suppose it also helps that he is surrounded by a solid cast of actors in their own right, including that of his 10-year-old co-star Maddy Hurd. The chemistry on display is certainly at a high, as is the emotion of it all. And it’s that sincere emotion that carries the film smoothly through its often-cliched (not to mention predictable) moments. But, in the end, we can all thank the actors for getting our heartstrings tugged on and funny bones tickled!