For Father’s Day we asked some of our ITOL team to write about their favourite cinematic Dads. Here’s Kristy Strouse’s piece on Bill Nighy’s father in the touching time-travelling film, “About Time”.

“About Time” (2013) is a wonderfully charming film, with a central romance that truly stands out. However, there’s another relationship within the film that’s just as important, as both a catalyst for the story and an emotional tether throughout, which is that of father and son. While our star, Domhnall Gleeson, is perfectly suited as the lead, Bill Nighy’s portrayal is essential. The always incredible actor shines as the father introducing his son to their ability to time travel, but more than that, passing on his wisdom on the appreciation of life.

“Bill Nighy manages to wrap comedy and heartfelt sentiment together to create a character worthy of consideration for one of the best film dads, and one of my personal favorites.”

When Tim (Gleeson) turns 21 he is, understandably, hesitant to believe this tale his father’s spun,  but through his dad’s direction (and his own mishaps) he figures out what this power can do: find and be with the woman he loves. A dream possible, and nurtured by his father’s guidance. Their relationship is one of envy or sentimentalism, depending on the viewer, because it seems genuine. The two actors share a chemistry that makes it easy to believe their laughter, tears, and bond, are familial and real.  They are friends as well and family, a rare notion some of us understand, and all should appreciate.

Bill Nighy manages to wrap comedy and heartfelt sentiment together to create a character worthy of consideration for one of the best film dads, and one of my personal favorites. He teaches a life lesson that, while born from a place of fantastical notions, is inherently inspirational and embedded in real-life consideration.