Michael Keaton has transitioned from his whimsical and chaotic Beetlejuice character to a much gentler persona in his late 2024 film, Goodrich. This heartwarming comedy explores the trials of parenting and family dynamics. Despite disappointing box office results, the movie has achieved impressive streaming success, debuting at the top of the charts on Max.
Directed by Hallie Meyers-Shyer, Goodrich revolves around Andy Goodrich, portrayed by Keaton, an art dealer who suddenly finds himself responsible for his nine-year-old twins when his wife checks into rehab. Out of touch with parenting, Goodrich seeks assistance from Grace (played by Mila Kunis), his daughter from a previous marriage. Together, they embark on a journey to rediscover familial bonds that have frayed over time.
Released on October 18, Goodrich struggled to gain traction in theaters; however, it garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences alike, reflected in its Rotten Tomatoes scores—an 81% on the Tomatometer and an even higher 85% on the Popcornmeter. Given Keaton’s long-standing popularity in Hollywood, the film’s box office underperformance caught many by surprise, but streaming often provides a second chance for productions like this one.
Michael Keaton’s career spans from quirky comedies to an Oscar-winning performance in Birdman, alongside his iconic role as Batman. With this diverse portfolio, he felt comfortable stepping back into the realm of more heartfelt, understated roles, a type he had not embraced in quite some time. In an interview with Moviefone, Keaton expressed his enthusiasm for the role of Andy, stating, “I knew I was halfway in already once I read it because I thought, ‘This is really good writing. I just really enjoy this.’” He further noted that taking on this character wasn’t a major stretch for him, indicating a connection with the character despite its apparent differences from his own personality.
Goodrich premiered on October 8, 2024, receiving a warm response, particularly highlighting Keaton’s performance, which won praise even from viewers who may not have fully appreciated the film itself. As audiences rediscover Goodrich on streaming platforms, its success on Max signifies that the film is finally receiving the recognition and appreciation it truly deserves. This phenomenal resurgence showcases how beloved stories can find new life in the digital arena, ensuring that Michael Keaton’s heartwarming comedy continues to resonate with viewers around the world.