Daddio: A Touching Chamber Piece
Some movies have a way of resonating with us on a deep level. Christy Hall’s stunning debut, Daddio, is one such film. It’s a movie that takes place entirely in a taxi ride from JFK airport to Midtown Manhattan, where the protagonist, Girlie, strikes up a conversation with her driver, Clark. As they talk about relationships, love, family, and the human experience, we’re treated to a deeply personal and intimate portrayal of two strangers connecting on a profound level.
A quiet night in the city
As a born and bred New Yorker, I have a special affinity for films that capture the essence of this great city. Daddio is a love letter to the city that never sleeps, and it’s a testament to Hall’s skill as a filmmaker that she’s able to convey the beauty and complexity of human connection in such a simple yet powerful way.
Daddio is a chamber piece, a type of film that I’ve always been drawn to. It’s a genre that focuses on the dialogue and performances, rather than flashy visuals or large set pieces. Films like 12 Angry Men, My Dinner with Andre, and Ex Machina are great examples of this type of storytelling. They’re movies that strip away the extraneous and focus on the essence of human connection.
Dakota Johnson shines as Girlie
In Daddio, we have two characters who are strangers to each other, but who learn a great deal about each other over the course of one intimate evening. Dakota Johnson plays Girlie, a woman who’s receiving sexually explicit texts from someone on her phone. Clark, played by Sean Penn, notices her reaction to the texts and they begin to unpack a lot about her situation. Through their conversation, we learn that Clark is a flawed person who’s made mistakes in his life, but who’s also capable of great kindness and empathy.
The best aspect of this film is the way it explores the idea that everyone we meet has years of stories that have brought them to where they are in that moment. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re all complex, multifaceted human beings, and that even the most fleeting encounters can have a profound impact on our lives.
A chance encounter that changes everything
Johnson is fantastic in this movie, bringing a level of depth and nuance to her character that’s truly impressive. Penn is also excellent, playing a character who’s not always likable, but who’s ultimately redeemed by his kind heart. The cinematography, handled by Phedon Papamichael, is also noteworthy, capturing the intimacy and claustrophobia of the taxi ride in a way that feels both realistic and cinematic.
Ultimately, Daddio is a film that works on many levels. It’s a powerful exploration of human connection, a nuanced portrayal of flawed characters, and a testament to the power of storytelling. If you’re a fan of chamber pieces, or if you’re simply looking for a movie that will make you think and feel, then Daddio is definitely worth checking out.
