Christy Hall’s directorial debut, “Daddio,” is a modest yet rewarding film that stars Sean Penn and Dakota Johnson. Johnson, who also produces the film, deserves credit for supporting this unique project. The movie opens with Johnson’s character getting into a taxi at JFK airport, where she engages in a conversation with the cab driver, played by Penn. Throughout the film, the two characters open up to each other and share secrets that they wouldn’t disclose to many others in their lives. While the concept of strangers sharing secrets is not uncommon in drama, Hall’s skillful direction and the outstanding performances by Penn and Johnson make it a compelling watch.
Hall originally conceived “Daddio” as a play, but it translates effectively to film. The movie takes place entirely in the taxi, and the confined setting provides an intimate space for the characters to reveal their vulnerabilities. The conversations flow naturally, and the director’s staging keeps the audience engaged throughout.
As the film progresses, Johnson’s character receives raunchy messages from a married man, hinting at the film’s theme of age difference. Johnson’s backstory unravels, exposing a distant father, an absent mother, and a history of abuse by her sister. Penn’s character fulfills the role of a compassionate listener, offering glimpses of his own loneliness and frustrations. However, it is Johnson’s troubled past that forms the core of the story. She may have overcome her traumas to build a successful career, but the old wounds run deep, and her tumultuous relationship with an older man named Daddy has done little to ease her pain. Penn’s character acts as a therapeutic figure, asking the right questions and encouraging her to reflect on her life choices.
While Johnson has delivered strong performances in films such as “The Lost Daughter” and “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” her portrayal in “Daddio” is truly remarkable. She commands the screen in closeup shots, exuding both strength and vulnerability. Penn, known for his versatility, brings charm and warmth to his role, making him the perfect foil to Johnson’s character. His subtle expressions and the eloquence he conveys with a single word showcase his exceptional acting skills.
It is worth noting the physical challenges of filming most of the movie in a taxi. Hall reveals that the majority of the film was shot in a studio with a taxi built on the stage, but the authenticity is impressive. Cinematographer Phedon Papamichael and production designer Kristi Zea contribute to the realism, capturing the confined space effectively. The film includes a few exterior shots, one of which portrays the aftermath of a horrific accident that causes a significant delay in the protagonists’ journey. This scene emphasizes the fragility of life and the importance of meaningful connections in a dangerous world.
By the time Johnson reaches her destination in Manhattan, the two main characters have formed a strong connection. The film’s conclusion leaves their futures open-ended, leaving the audience pondering their outcomes. Hall’s skillful direction, combined with the exceptional performances by Penn and Johnson, ensures that viewers will continue thinking about these characters long after the journey ends.
In conclusion, “Daddio” marks Christy Hall’s impressive directorial debut. Seamlessly transitioning from stage to screen, the film captivates the audience with its intimate setting and the exceptional performances by Sean Penn and Dakota Johnson. Hall’s ability to tackle sensitive subjects and create compelling dialogues makes “Daddio” a noteworthy addition to the drama genre. With the support of talented cinematographer Phedon Papamichael and production designer Kristi Zea, Hall successfully captures the authenticity of a taxi cab journey. Despite the limited setting, the film effectively explores themes of vulnerability, loneliness, and the search for connection in a tumultuous world. “Daddio” is a thought-provoking film that lingers in the minds of its viewers long after the credits roll.
