FATHER FIGURE

A Documentary Film

Father Figure Productions screened its compelling feature-length documentary, Father Figure, at the Cinema Cafe Art House in Virginia Beach, Virginia during Father’s Day Weekend of 2007. The screenings were followed by panel discussions. Panelists included fatherhood experts, clergy and a film critic.

"Father Figure,” which began as a play written by Eleanor Earl and Odetta Wright, was conceived during their undergraduate years at the University of Virginia. The play, and the documentary it inspired, explores the ways in which women’s lives are affected by a present and absent fathers.

The lasting effects greatly influence the choices of men women date/marry. They also determine how women relate to men- their ability to communicate effectively, etc.; and they directly shape a woman’s self image. Women of varying races, ages and economical statuses are represented through film, monologues, poetry, dance, and song. "Father Figure" is a journey towards understanding who and what a “father figure” is, and how he impacts the lives of all women.

"Father Figure" was first produced as a stage play off-off Broadway at Musical Theatreworks in New York City in February 1997. It was later produced at the Firehouse Theatre in Richmond, Virginia in June 1998. However, it didn't end there. A few years passed, and even though Eleanor and Odetta were pursuing other projects, they knew there was unfinished business when it came to "Father Figure." So they got together in June of 2005 and revisited "Father Figure" and what it meant to them in the present. The result was "Father Figure: Monologues for Healing."

As they resurrected this important work, they have also created a feature documentary entitled "Father Figure" which gives the audience an in-depth look at the relationship between women and their fathers. The interviews for the documentary were conducted in California, Georgia, and Virginia. Over half of the interviews take place in Virginia and showcase several beautiful locations.

 Father Figure is more than a film. It is a spiritual, physical and emotional experience that will challenge the audience’s perception of what a father figure is or should be. It will cause them to examine their relationships with their fathers, and for men, it will encourage them to consider what type of father they desire to be.