Father Hood

The film begins with Matthew Logelin speaking at his wife Liz's funeral, overwhelmed with grief. His friends and mother try to console him, but he remains inconsolable, showing the depth of his loss. He is now a single father to their infant daughter, Maddy, struggling to cope with the tragedy.

A flashback reveals Liz suffering from breathing problems after a doctor visit, leading to her being taken in for emergency care. The doctors diagnose her with a pulmonary embolism, and despite efforts, she passes away unexpectedly. This event sets the tone for Matt’s grief and new responsibilities.

Matt and his mother Anna, along with Liz’s parents Marion and Mike, step in to help care for baby Maddy. Despite their advice to move to Minnesota, Matt chooses to stay in California, working to adapt to the challenges of parenting alone.

The early days of caring for Maddy are difficult for Matt, with her crying and fussiness overwhelming him. He experiments with different soothing techniques, eventually discovering that white noise helps her sleep, easing some of his frustration.

Matt struggles with work due to Maddy’s constant needs, resorting to bringing her to the office. His friends and colleagues offer support and tips for managing her crying, highlighting his ongoing efforts to be a good parent while maintaining his job.

Matt takes Maddy to Minnesota to spend time with Liz's parents. They visit Liz’s childhood home and her old room, solidifying Matt’s commitment to keeping her memory alive while embracing his new role as Maddy’s father.

Years pass, and Maddy, now around five years old, attends a private school. She defies gender norms by wearing pants and joins her dad in social activities, showcasing her developing personality and independence.

At a birthday party, Matt meets Lizzie, an animator, through mutual friends. They hit it off, and as they start dating, Maddy begins to form a bond with Lizzie, who encourages her to call her 'Swan,' deepening their connection.

Maddy faces teasing at school for wearing boys’ underwear and clothes, leading to a confrontation that results in her getting injured and receiving stitches. Matt rushes her to the hospital, reflecting his ongoing fears and struggles in parenting.

As Maddy wants to stay with Liz's parents, Matt struggles with the decision and realizes he’s not providing her with happiness. He agrees to let her stay more with Liz’s family while contemplating his own mistakes as a single father.

Matt receives news of retirement and a job offer in Croatia from his boss, Howard. However, he chooses to stay closer to Maddy, feeling that his place is with her, and ultimately decides to forgo the overseas opportunity to prioritize his daughter’s well-being.

As Matt prepares to leave for Croatia, he has a heartfelt moment with Maddy, choosing to stay by her side rather than pursue the job abroad. He returns her necklace and shares his love, reaffirming his commitment as her father.

Matt visits Lizzie’s house to apologize for their separation, and she forgives him. They agree to move forward together with Maddy, sharing ice cream and rebuilding their family. The film ends with Matt supporting her in feeling comfortable with her identity.