Fathers and father figures have been a storytelling trope for millennia, from oral traditions passed generation by generation, to the earliest written epics and sagas. Cinema, of course, is no different.
Here’s a look back at some of the best films to watch on or around Father’s Day:
Pinocchio (1940)
Pinocchio is one of Disney’s earliest animation features, and follows a puppet who was given life by a fairy after his creator, Geppetto, wished upon a star. After a sometimes heartbreaking journey and reunion, Pinocchio is transformed from a living marionette into a real boy, and Geppetto becomes his true father.
The Kid (1921)
This American comedy-drama silent classic focuses on the simple yet powerful journey of a tramp (Charlie Chaplin) who finds a baby on a street and takes it upon himself to look after him. Their special relationship grows through a very physical series of unfortunate circumstances and showcase a lovable and energetic father figure with a very turbulent child sidekick (Jackie Coogan).
Mary Poppins (1964)
Magical nanny Mary Poppins comes to a London house to help raise the children of Mr. Banks (David Tomlinson), a strict disciplinarian. While he initially seems cold and harsh, his deeply sentimental and sincere love of his kids eventually shines through with some help from Poppins.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
The third entry in the Indiana Jones trilogy is decidedly more lighthearted and comedic than its darker predecessors, and a lot of that comes from the bickering relationship Indy has with his bookwork father, played by Sean Connery. The Spielberg film finds its heart in their relationship though, as ultimately they both realize they need each other even more than they do the Holy Grail.
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Robin Williams is in peak form in this family classic, playing a divorced dad who misses spending time with his three kids. His solution is outside-the-box, using heavy prosthetics, he transforms into elderly British nanny Mrs. Doubtfire, and is hired as his children’s nanny. A series of iconic comedic setpieces ensue.
Billy Elliot (2000)
Set in England during the 1984-85 coal miners’ strike, Billy Elliot tells the story of a boy (Jamie Bell) who wants to become a professional ballet dancer. His father (Gary Lewis) wants to push him into boxing. Billy’s ballet teacher (Julie Walters) serves as bridge for the father and son, helping Billy both fulfill his dream and be accepted by his father.
Father of the Bride (1991)
This remake quickly became a classic in its own right with comedy legend Steve Martin playing the lead role and learning that part of being a parent is knowing when to let your children go and start their own lives. Buoyed by a stellar supporting cast that includes Diane Keaton, Martin Short, Kieran Culkin, and B.D. Wong, it wasn’t surprising when the film spawned a direct sequel.
Ludovic Coutaud is a NYFA alum and writer. For more information, click here.