MovieChat Forums > Shameless (2011) Discussion > I hate how the kids are treating Frank

I hate how the kids are treating Frank

posted 6 years ago by Mister Babadook (2623)
3 replies | jump to latest

He has actually turned his life around, got cleaned up, got a job, stopped drinking and doing drugs, he was even employee of the month, got Liam into a really nice school. I mean what more does the guy have to do for his kids to tell him how good he's doing or that they're proud of him?

Felt so bad for him when he was in the kitchen proud about his first check or that he's employee of the month and they just ignored him and walked by him. He was dying for just 1 of them to tell him that was great or that they're proud of how far he's come and they gave him nothing.

I get them being skeptical the 1st day or week but he's been consistently being a better person and held down the job, and still they don't even acknowledge it or show any kinda of appreciation.

[–] thisteaistoosweet (1) 6 years ago

I can't say that I blame them. If you take into consideration the life they were made to live because of his negligence, it makes perfect sense. You can't just take his behavior at face value and give him praise when it's been mentioned throughout the series that frank never does well for long. Perhaps if he stays with it, they'll acknowledge him, but that takes time.. and truthfully, he doesn't necessarily deserve it.
I do like what they have done with him this season though.

[–] Utpe (658) 6 years ago

I have to agree. Frank was a real work of art throughout most of their lives, even though he's giving it all his best by doing good things for Liam. I don't think they can easily forgive him, at least not at this point.

Take a look a Fiona. When her mother (Monica) passed away, she still held a grudge. She even went as far as to push Monica's coffin and say something demeaning. I'm guessing if and when Frank kicks the bucket, they probably wouldn't think twice about his good deeds. Liam might, but not the rest.

It happens in real life too. I grew up with a friend that had a verbally abusive alcoholic father. One day he was killed while walking to a bar. His family never forgave him for being a drunk. His wife lost her house and was forced to relocate. Even to this day, they don't even bother paying their respects by visiting his grave (I believe the father's side of the family buried him).

I really doubt Frank is going to keep it up. So far, he was fired from his job. This whole upbeat attitude is going to change once he's unable to repay his debts. He'll probably revert back to his old ways just to make ends meet.

[–] R_Kane (15828) 6 years ago

The kids are treating Frank the way that Frank taught them to treat people, with contempt and cynicism. The chickens have come home to roost.