Favorite Movie Dads Kids Will Love
The greatest dads are guys who inspire us to do our best. They're men we can look up to and who always have our back, no matter what.
If you're looking for a movie to snuggle up to with your kids on Father's Day, these movie dads -- from the earnest to the goofy -- will honor the day and create new memories in the process.
Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird
What makes this dad great: Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck) stands up against prejudice even when it's difficult and in the process exposes the truth and teaches his kids the difference between right and wrong.
Marlin in Finding Nemo
What makes this dad great: Even though he starts out as way too overprotective, Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) never gives up looking for his missing son. In the process he learns that by letting go, he and Nemo can build an even closer relationship.
Mufasa in The Lion King
What makes this dad great: Simba's guilt over his role in his father's death haunts him throughout the film, but in the end his dad's selflessness and the example he set turn Simba into a strong leader.
Daniel Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire
What makes this dad great: Divorced dad/out-of-work actor Daniel (Robin Williams) will do anything to spend more time with his kids … even if that means disguising himself as a Scottish nanny.
Guido Orefice in Life Is Beautiful
What makes this dad great: In this heartbreaking story of a father's elaborate attempt to protect his son from the horrors of the Holocaust, the Chaplin-esqe Roberto Benigni portrays a dad who saves his son's life and his own humanity.
George Banks in Father of the Bride
What makes this dad great: In this charming remake of the Spencer Tracy/Elizabeth Taylor classic, Steve Martin is frequently overwhelmed by the cost and fuss of his daughter Annie's wedding, but in the end he's willing to do whatever it takes to make his little girl happy.
Tom Alden in Fly Away Home
What makes this dad great: Tom (Jeff Daniels) hasn't always been there for his daughter in the past, but when she shows up on his doorstep grieving and angry, he -- and the wild geese she comes to love -- helps her learn to spread her wings and soar again.
Henry Jones, Sr. in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
What makes this dad great: Gruff, plainspoken, and unapologetically dedicated to his research, Henry Jones, Sr. (Sean Connery) is also brave, adventurous, and proud of his globe-trotting, whip-cracking son.
Jack Butler in Mr. Mom
What makes this dad great: While he initially makes a mess of staying home and caring for his three kids, Jack Butler (Michael Keaton) eventually rises to the challenge. In the process, he forms a closer relationship with his kids and gains more respect for his wife.
Mr. Ping in Kung Fu Panda 2
What makes this dad great: Po's adoptive father loves him unconditionally and even supports his choice to find out more about his birth parents. In the end, Po realizes how much he appreciates the happy childhood and supportive relationship that Mr. Ping (voiced by James Hong) gave him.
Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music
What makes this dad great: After his wife's death, Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) shuts himself off from their seven children -- until they (and governess Maria) bring music back into his life, and he remembers how important it is to laugh and love.
Mr. Fox in Fantastic Mr. Fox
What makes this dad great: Sure, he's a thief and a rascal, but Mr. Fox (voiced by George Clooney) is also smart, resourceful, and courageous -- and he's willing to change his ways when the happiness of his family and his community depends on it.
Check out more lists for Dad's Day at Common Sense Media
Movie Dads
TV Dads We Love
Best Dad-Daughter Movies
