Look, this movie has good intentions. The civics lesson is real, and the idea that every vote counts is worth drilling into our kids' heads. Madeline Carroll's performance as the responsible daughter trying to parent her irresponsible father is genuinely moving.
But let's be honest: this is a 38% on Rotten Tomatoes for a reason. The political satire was already feeling stale in 2008, and now it's practically ancient history. The constant drinking is a real problem—Bud is drunk or drinking in nearly every scene, and while the film eventually addresses his irresponsibility, it takes a long time to get there.
If you're looking for a way to talk about elections and civic duty with your 14-year-old during campaign season, this could work as a jumping-off point. Just be ready to pause frequently to explain 2008 political references and to discuss why Bud's behavior is problematic. For actual entertainment? There are better options. This is more 'homework disguised as a movie' than 'movie that happens to teach something.'




