If you’re scrolling through Netflix and noticing About My Father already climbing the Top 10, it’s easy to see why. The comedy, now holding the number two spot, pairs stand-up star Sebastian Maniscalco with Robert De Niro in a hilarious, heartfelt clash of family, culture, and awkward moments that has viewers laughing — and talking. With its chart-topping debut, the film is quickly becoming a must-watch for streaming fans. Here is everything you need to know about About My Father — from the plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
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About My Father — all the key details
• Title: About My Father
• Format: Film
• Length: 89 minutes
• Genre: Comedy
• Original language: English
• Release date: May 26, 2023 (theatrical)
• Director: Laura Terruso
• Lead cast: Sebastian Maniscalco, Robert De Niro, Leslie Bibb, Kim Cattrall
• Produced by: Depth of Field, in association with Lionsgate
What About My Father is about
About My Father dives headfirst into the chaos of cultural collision and family pride. Sebastian (Maniscalco) is ready to propose to his girlfriend, Ellie, but before popping the question, she insists he bring his father, Salvo (De Niro), to meet her well-heeled family over a holiday weekend. What should be a polite get-together quickly unravels into a storm of awkward moments, clashing values, and heartfelt realizations. Salvo’s old-school Italian mindset collides with Ellie’s polished, modern world, sparking both tension and laughter. The movie plays with the contrasts we all recognize — immigrant roots versus assimilation, honesty versus decorum, family loyalty versus self-expression. Between sharp humor and tender beats, About My Father finds its rhythm in that messy, funny space where love and tradition collide.
About My Father cast: the main characters
Sebastian Maniscalco takes on the lead role, playing a version of himself. Although best known for his stand-up work, this is one of his most prominent acting forays — and the film is built partly around his real life. Robert De Niro plays Salvo, Sebastian’s father, bringing gravitas and a seasoned presence to scenes that lean emotional. De Niro reportedly met Maniscalco’s real father in preparation for the role. Leslie Bibb plays Ellie, Sebastian’s girlfriend, whose wealthy family is at the center of the weekend get-together. Kim Cattrall appears as Tigger, Ellie’s mother, while Anders Holm and David Rasche portray Ellie’s family members.
Is About My Father based on a true story?
Yes and no. The film is loosely based on Sebastian Maniscalco’s life and his relationship with his father. Still, the narrative is fictionalized and dramatized for comedic effect, not a strict retelling of events.
What reviews say about About My Father
Critics have highlighted the strong chemistry between Robert De Niro and Sebastian Maniscalco, praising De Niro’s natural shift into a lighter, screwball style. Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com noted that “De Niro … is the engine that keeps this refurbished jalopy puttering along.” Audiences have responded warmly as well — About My Father holds a high user score across major platforms, with viewers describing it as a sweet, heartfelt family comedy that blends humor with genuine emotion.
Where was About My Father filmed?
Principal photography for About My Father took place in Mobile, Alabama over roughly one month.
When to watch About My Father
About My Father is already streaming on Netflix, where it currently holds the second spot in the platform’s Top 10 movies in the U.S. The film debuted on Netflix on October 1, 2025, quickly climbing the rankings thanks to word-of-mouth and the star power of Robert De Niro and Sebastian Maniscalco.
The trailer
Here’s the trailer to get a first taste:
