Where’s Daddy?

Deadbeat dads are regularly excoriated as men who carelessly abandon responsibility to their children, and while they come in all skin colors, media attention has often focused on African Americans. Filmmaker Rel Dowdell’s documentary argues that true deadbeat dads deserve censure whatever their race, but it centers on black men who try to meet their obligations yet for some perfectly reasonable cause might fall temporarily behind in payments. Often, courts will respond by sentencing the father to jail, removing his ability to earn money and driving him even further into arrears, thereby encouraging a vicious cycle that only makes the situation worse, sometimes resulting in lost jobs. Where’s Daddy? is largely based on interviews with men having first-hand experience--both well-known individuals like pro football receiver Fred Barnett and rap artist Freeway, and ordinary guys who recall their own traumatic childhoods--as well as experts and religious figures who have provided counseling. While not overlooking the bias in favor of mothers that is inherent in the child-support system (as well as the inclination of some women to exploit it), and honestly acknowledging that some fathers really are stereotypical deadbeat dads, Where’s Daddy? explores the unintended impact that the process can have on fathers trying to do their best--which often further fractures families by weakening the bonds between fathers and children. The film offers no simple solutions, but by arguing that the child-support system as a whole is in need of repair, it will encourage useful debate. Extras include audience reaction and Q&A at a screening, a deleted interview, and a song from the film. Taking a balanced approach to an incendiary subject, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)