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Poster for In My Father's Den

In My Father's Den

Seen it?

2004 | 126 min | Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Sunday Safe Betearly rating

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

Critics loved it (100% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had a box office flop and almost no lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who likes to be kept guessing. If you loved A Streetcar Named Desire or Searching, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Tense.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 6 min.
What might put you off
Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

War journalist Paul Prior returns to his New Zealand hometown after his father’s death, rekindling strained relationships with his brother and memories of a troubled past. He befriends Celia, a curious and aspiring writer, who shares a fascination with his world. When Celia mysteriously disappears, Paul becomes the prime suspect, forcing him to confront buried secrets and uncover the dark truths of his family and community.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsVery strong

    100% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesSolid

    6.9 out of 10

  • AwardsNot counted

    No major awards or nominations

  • Reach & staying powerWeak

    Streaming release that reached a small audience so far

  • Buzz & cultural impactWeak

    About 18K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Brad McGann

  • Matthew MacfadyenPaul Prior
  • Emily BarclayCelia
  • Miranda OttoPenny Prior
  • Colin MoyAndrew Prior
  • Jimmy KeenJonathan
  • Jodie RimmerJackie
  • Matthew ChamberlainJeff
  • Vicky HaughtonMiss Seagar
  • Antony StarrGarreth
  • Vanessa RiddellIris