About Dad Wanted

Explore:

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music and Soundtrack

About

Dad Wanted is a Mexican drama film directed by Natalia Beristain and released in 2020. The movie centers around the story of Blanca, a 13-year-old girl who lives with her single mother in Mexico City. Blanca participates in bike races and dreams of becoming a professional cyclist. However, her mother disapproves of her passion for cycling and tries to convince her to pursue other interests.

One day, Blanca sees a promotional video for a BMX contest called "Dad Wanted," where the winner will get to have a father for a day. Determined to participate, Blanca decides to disguise herself as a boy named "Elliott" and enters the contest. Against all odds, she ends up winning and is paired with a professional cyclist named Mauro, who becomes her temporary "dad" for the day.

Blanca and Mauro form an unexpected bond as they navigate the challenges of their unconventional relationship. Blanca learns important life lessons about determination, acceptance, and the importance of following her dreams. The film blends heartwarming moments with a touch of humor and offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of family dynamics.

Making / Production

Dad Wanted was produced by La Corriente del Golfo and Cacerola Films. The director, Natalia Beristain, worked closely with the screenwriters Carolina Rivera and Alberto Bremer to bring the story to life. The film was shot on location in Mexico City, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the setting.

The production team collaborated with professional BMX riders and experts to ensure the authenticity of the cycling scenes in the film. The attention to detail in recreating the BMX contest and the challenges faced by Blanca as "Elliott" helped create a compelling and believable story.

Actors

• Juan Pablo Medina as Mauro - Juan Pablo Medina delivers a heartfelt performance as Mauro, the professional cyclist who reluctantly becomes Blanca's temporary father figure. His portrayal captures the internal conflict and emotional journey of a man who unexpectedly finds himself in a parenting role.
• Elle Velazquez as Blanca/Elliott - Elle Velazquez brilliantly portrays the determined and spirited character of Blanca. She effectively captures Blanca's vulnerability, passion for cycling, and her growth throughout the story.
• Luis Ernesto Franco as Ricardo - Luis Ernesto Franco plays Ricardo, Blanca's absent father who reappears in her life during the film. Franco brings depth to the character with his conflicted emotions and attempts at redemption.
• Ianis Guerrero as Diego - Ianis Guerrero portrays Diego, Blanca's best friend who supports her throughout her journey in the "Dad Wanted" contest. Guerrero adds a touch of humor and friendship to the narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was inspired by a real-life event where a BMX contest advertised a prize of "A dad for a day."
• The storyline challenges traditional gender roles, as Blanca disguises herself as a boy to be able to participate in the contest.
• The movie addresses themes of identity, family expectations, and pursuing one's passion despite societal norms.
• Dad Wanted received positive reviews for its heartwarming story, strong performances, and the chemistry between the main actors.

Awards

Dad Wanted received critical acclaim and won several awards. Some of the notable awards include:

• Best Family Film - Ariel Awards
• Best Supporting Actor - Fénix Film Awards (Juan Pablo Medina)
• Best Young Actress - Platino Awards (Elle Velazquez)
• Best Costume Design - Premios Luminus

Quotes

• "You don't need to be perfect to become what you want." - Mauro
• "If I can beat them as a boy, why can't I beat them as a girl?" - Blanca
• "Being a family means loving each other, regardless of how different we are." - Blanca

Music and Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Dad Wanted features a mix of energetic and emotional songs that complement the film's narrative. Notable songs include:

• "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor
• "Ride Like the Wind" by Christopher Cross
• "I Want to Break Free" by Queen
• "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen