About My Father

In the end, About My Father reveals that love within a family is imperfect but genuine. Sebastian’s relationship with his father, Salvo, is shaped by Salvo’s tough, no-nonsense approach rooted in a deep desire to protect and provide for his son, even if his methods are often flawed. Throughout the film, Sebastian begins to see that Salvo’s actions, while sometimes eccentric or misguided, stem from a place of love and insecurity rather than outright contempt. When Seb faces his panic attack and makes the effort to bring his father back from the trip, it’s a pivotal moment that shows he recognizes and appreciates his father’s love, despite its rough exterior.

The film avoids justifying Salvo’s more toxic parenting tendencies, instead acknowledging that imperfect parents can still be caring and well-meaning. In the final scenes, Salvo sheds his prejudices and eccentricities, dressing up for the family portrait and participating in their chaotic, lively household. The overprotective, sometimes overbearing parents, like Ellie’s, also begin to loosen their grip, understanding their daughter’s need for independence. The film’s message is that family love often comes with flaws—parents make mistakes, but as long as they are willing to improve and love unconditionally, they remain worthy of our respect. The ending celebrates the messy, often awkward but ultimately sincere bonds that hold families together, emphasizing that love doesn’t have to be perfect to be real.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:57