Paternity

Paternity, a jovial and warm romantic comedy-drama from 1981, serves up a nuanced portrayal of male desire for fatherhood, which is narrated essentially by lead actor Burt Reynolds. The film uses humor and emotional twists to help the audience understand the curiosities and anxieties of parenting from an unorthodox perspective.

Burt Reynolds, dashing as always, plays Buddy Evans, a forty-four-year-old playboy and successful New York City executive. Buddy enjoys the perks of a bachelor's life and appreciates his freedom to the fullest. However, he begins to yearn for something more substantial, a legacy that can outlive him. What truly bowls us over is his intense desire to have a child but without the restraints of conventional marriage. He longs for someone who would remember him after his death - his progeny.

As Buddy embarks on a quest to find a woman who would be willing and fit to bear his child and then leave the child under his sole custody after birth, he meets Maggie, played by the radiant Beverly D'Angelo. Maggie, who works as a waitress, is a fiesty, quirky young woman who charms Buddy with her straightforwardness and knack to understand and appreciate people. What grabs the viewers' attention is not the conventional romantic trap that seems apparent, but the unconventional proposal of a business contract that Buddy lays in front of her.

Directed under the precise vision of David Steinberg, Paternity manages to make an uncommon topic uncommonly entertaining. The film offers a fresh take on a concept that, at its core, defies socio-cultural norms but intriguingly presents the human desire to procreate and parent. The society's standard binary division of 'man as bread-earner' and 'woman as nurturer' is challenged, as Buddy prepares himself for the eventual single parenthood.

Burt Reynolds delivers one of his most memorable performances as Buddy. His portrayal of the character maintains an excellent balance between the playboy charisma and the sincere efforts of a wannabe father, making the audience root for him, despite his unconventional wish. Beverly D'Angelo plays the role of Maggie with conviction and adds great depth to the character. The chemistry between the two leads offers light comic relief while also driving forward the more profound and emotional narrative.

Norman Fell, as Buddy's attorney and friend named Kurt, adds another dimension to the movie. His experienced portrayal of the skeptical yet supportive friend adds an engaging subplot that deepens the narrative.

Paternity possesses a distinct charm that resonates across its narrative arc. It's interspersed with hilarious set pieces, comedic dialogues, poignant moments, and dramatic revelations that come in varying degrees throughout the film. The film's pacing and warmth of the characters are among the highlights, allowing each narrative beat to land just where it should.

At its heart, Paternity is a warm exploration of the struggles and joys, trials and triumphs, the ins and outs of parenting from a different perspective. It reminds us that the road to parenthood doesn't always have to be conventional or societally accepted but can be weaved according to individual choice.

The cinematography of the movie captures the essence of the 80s New York City, boasting all its glory, offering an added emotional depth affiliated with the bygone era. The soundtrack complements the storyline these aiding in creating an engaging on-screen moment that the viewers would cherish.

Paternity adheres to the essence of human emotion and relationships, presenting an intricate and humorous overlay on the enduring web of interpersonal human dynamics. The plot, though a comedy, surprises viewers with numerous tear-jerking moments that draw on universal experiences around the themes of love, friendship, and the shining beacon of fatherhood.

Altogether, this vintage film from the early 80s is worth watching for the excellent performances and the offbeat depiction of the desire for parenthood, where parenting is more than just a societal obligation but a man's genuine pursuit for absolute happiness.