Netflix delivers another heartwarming family special with The Dad Quest (2025)—a feel-good comedy that blends fatherhood, fantasy, and a whole lot of dad jokes. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Greg Coolidge, the film taps into the hilarity and heartache of being a modern dad while tossing in unexpected quests and heartfelt life lessons.
Meet the Cast of The Dad Quest (2025)
Let’s break down the context of the movie and get to know the cast of The Dad Quest, their roles, and what makes them stand out in this laugh-out-loud, tear-jerking Netflix Original.
Plot Summary – What Is The Dad Quest About?
The Dad Quest follows recently widowed dad Eli Becker, played by John Krasinski, who’s struggling to connect with his two kids while managing a work-life balance that’s anything but balanced. When Eli finds an old board game in the attic—one his late wife created with the kids—he and his children are magically pulled into a fantasy realm where every parenting lesson comes to life… literally.
What begins as a silly game quickly becomes a soul-searching adventure through kingdoms of emotional monsters, enchanted schools, and a Temple of Timeouts. With the help of other dads (each representing different parenting styles), Eli must complete a series of quests to return home—and hopefully become the dad his kids deserve.
It’s a mashup of Jumanji, Inside Out, and Father of the Year that aims to explore fatherhood from a bold, imaginative lens.
Meet the Cast of The Dad Quest
John Krasinski as Eli Becker
Krasinski, known for The Office and A Quiet Place, brings emotional depth and comedic timing to his role as Eli. He’s both vulnerable and strong—a perfect everydad for the Netflix generation. Krasinski is a Screen Actors Guild Award winner and multiple Emmy nominee.
Marsai Martin as Joy Becker
Martin plays Eli’s confident, science-loving daughter. A standout from Black-ish and one of Hollywood’s youngest executive producers, Marsai brings both sass and soul to her role. She’s a NAACP Image Award winner with multiple nominations to her name.
Ian Chen as Max Becker
From Fresh Off the Boat, Chen plays Max, Eli’s imaginative youngest who sees the fantasy quest as a dream come true. He delivers both heart and humor, helping to bridge the story’s emotional beats. He’s been nominated for a Young Artist Award.
Ken Jeong as Gary the Guide
Jeong appears as a magical, eccentric character who helps Eli navigate the fantasy world. Best known for Community and The Hangover, Jeong’s energy keeps the pace lively. He’s a MTV Movie & TV Award winner and was nominated for a Critics’ Choice Award.
Tig Notaro as Counselor Calm
Notaro plays a hilariously dry, wisdom-spouting forest monk who dishes out parenting advice like fortune cookies. A Grammy nominee for her comedy albums, Tig’s deadpan delivery is a hit here.
Danny Pudi as Tech Dad
Pudi (Community, Mythic Quest) plays a dad who treats parenting like an app—complete with spreadsheets and sensors. It’s a sharp satire of modern fatherhood, and Pudi nails it.
About the Writer & Director – Greg Coolidge
Greg Coolidge, the creative force behind Employee of the Month and The Troop, brings his signature blend of humor and sincerity to The Dad Quest. Known for capturing workplace comedy and underdog stories, Coolidge turns his lens to parenting this time.
“Being a dad is the most epic quest there is. This movie is a love letter to all the mistakes we make while trying to get it right,” said Coolidge in a Netflix press release.
He’s also the co-creator of Amazon’s hit series The Consultant and was a Writers Guild of America Award nominee.
FAQs About The Dad Quest on Netflix
Not exactly, but it’s inspired by real parenting experiences. The fantasy elements serve as metaphors for common parenting challenges.
The movie is directed by Greg Coolidge, known for Employee of the Month and The Consultant.
Yes! It’s rated PG and perfect for family viewing—funny, touching, and safe for all ages.
It’s streaming exclusively on Netflix, starting April 18, 2025.
Nothing is confirmed yet, but early reviews and audience response suggest there’s plenty of interest in expanding the story.
Initial reviews praise the movie for balancing emotional resonance with laugh-out-loud moments. Variety called it “a heartfelt ride through the chaos of parenting,” while IGN noted, “It’s one of the best family films of 2025 so far.”
External Reviews & Resources
• Digital Mafia Talkies Film Review
Final Thoughts
The Dad Quest isn’t just about parenting—it’s about healing, imagination, and what it means to show up, even when you feel like you’re failing. With a phenomenal cast, creative world-building, and an emotional core, it’s bound to resonate with viewers far beyond the parenting crowd.
So grab your snacks, call the kids, and queue up The Dad Quest. Your next movie night just leveled up.
