The documentary explores identity and legacy in the African-American family, as Grammy award-winning rapper Che 'Rhymefest' Smith and his homeless alcoholic father reconnect after 25 years and try to build a new future in Chicago's turbulent South Side.
Though it brings limited insight to the problem of absent fathers in the black community, "In My Father's House" tells a story of loneliness, abandonment, anger, and joy that all can relate to.
The movie's message, if any? If you're a successful rap star, you might want to think twice before returning to the ghetto to track down the deadbeat dad you never knew. .
[IMFH] is a beautifully haunting film about the cycles that we find ourselves in. Its both hilarious and heartbreaking moments really shine light on the affects of absentee parents, drug and alcohol abuse, as well as homelessness in the Black community.
Che's mission to lift his father up. . .intimately demonstrates [how] health care, education and supportive housing. . .help a motivated man gain confidence and his life.
Watching Mr. Tillman as he cheerfully embraces sobriety to please his son, and is rebuffed by his former street pals for doing so, we see a poignant meditation on how our expectations of loved ones can become a burden that not everyone can carry.
