Top Ten… Movie Dads

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Father’s Day is here and that means its time for a new themed post celebrating some great father-figures in movies. Whilst my favourites were fairly easy to choose, ranking them was nigh on impossible, so I decided against an official ranking.

And so, in no particular order, here’s my ten favourite movie dads.

Alfred Pennyworth (Batman, Gotham)

Image of Michael Caine and Christian Bale from Batman Begins.

Now there may be some disagreement on your favourite portrayal of Alfred, mine is a close toss-up between Michael Caine and Sean Pertwee, there should be no arguing that he is a great father-figure. Not only does he take on guardianship of orphaned Bruce Wayne but he also encourages and supports him in his goals, no matter what they may be.

Yondu (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 – 2017)

Definitely not one of your conventional father-figures but you have got to agree that he had such a great story-arc in the Guardians films, and proves the point that being a father is not all about biology.

Mr Levenstein (American Pie – 1999)

Still from the film American Pie, with actors Eugene Levy and Jason Biggs
© Copyright 1999 – Universal Pictures

The only character to appear in all of the American Pie movies and it’s subsequent spinoffs, Mr Levenstein (Eugene Levy) is definitely one of the best dads in film. Yes, his attempts to connect with his son, Jim, are both hilariously awkward and embarrassing, but his intentions are always well meaning, and his guidance and support is something that is valued by Jim and all of his friends.

Gru (Despicable Me – 2010)

Still from Despicable movie of Gru having a tea party with his girls and a minion
Photo by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment – © 2010 Universal Studios.

Whilst working on his master plan to steal the Moon, super-villain Gru ropes in three orphaned sisters to, unknowingly, help him with his grand scheme. Instead, they wind up stealing his heart and the world’s best super-villain becomes a super-dad.

Daniel Hillard (Mrs Doubtfire – 1993 )

It would not be a proper Father’s Day list if I didn’t include the late great Robin Williams in one of his most famous roles; Mrs Doubtfire.

Following a somewhat bitter divorce from his wife, Daniel is only allowed to see his children once a week, but that doesn’t sit too well with him. In a bid to spend more time with his three children, he disguises himself as an elderly Scottish housekeeper and hilarity ensues.

Frank Adler (Gifted – 2017)

Still from the movie Gifted showing McKenna Grace on Chris Evans' shoulders

Frank Adler has taken on the responsibility of single-handedly raising his genius niece, Mary (McKenna Grace), following on from the death of his sister. However, his plans for a normal childhood and school experience are scuppered when his mother becomes aware of Mary’s mathematical talents and draws him into a bitter custodial battle.

Gifted was one of my favourite films of 2017, and it was really nice to see Chris Evans in a role that highlighted his acting ability outside of superhero roles. The relationship between him and the brilliant McKenna Grace is sweet and endearing, and yes, I did cry a few times. If you’ve not seen it yet, this is a must-watch film.

Marlin (Finding Nemo – 2003)

Still from movie Finding Nemo with Marlin and Nemo holding fins
© 2003 – Pixar/Disney

Yes, I have put a fish in my top ten father figures and yes, I will fight anyone who challenges this! Marlin and Nemo’s story is one that shows the lengths that parents will go to, in order to protect their children, and the strength it takes to let them go their own way.

Brian Mills (Taken – 2008-2014)

Arguably the role that shot Liam Neeson into the ‘action star’ stratosphere, his portrayal of retired CIA agent, Brian Mills proves, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you should never, ever mess with Daddy’s Little Girl. Let’s be fair though, Neeson deserves his place in this list purely for his epic “I will find you, and I will kill you” speech.

Gomez (Addams Family – 1991)

Gomez Addams heads a strong, supportive and loving family unit, and truly encourages his children to follow their passions and embrace their originality.

Atticus Finch (To Kill A Mockingbird – 1962)

Atticus Finch is a father who instils morals, teaches important lessons and leads by example. A strong role model for his children, Jem and Scout, Atticus Finch is one of the most well respected father figures in both film and literature, and my list would not have been complete without him.

Do you agree with my top ten movie dads? Who would you include in your list? Let me know in the comments.

Did you like this post? Check out my themed post for Mother’s Day.

0 Comments Add yours

  1. nsfordwriter says:

    Great idea for Father’s Day post (I was going to do one for dads in books but to be honest I couldn’t think of enough!) – my top dads would be Atticus and Mrs Doubtfire.

    1. Kirsty T says:

      Maybe you can do one for next year 🙂 Mr Weasley will definitely need to be included.

      1. nsfordwriter says:

        Yeah it needs more planning 😀

  2. amymayj says:

    I’m so glad you included Mr Levenstein from American Pie! He’s awesome and even though he’s mainly there for the humor, you can tell how much he loves Jim. It’s adorable. Daniel Hillard in Mrs Doubtfire is my absolute favourite too – think he would definitely be at the top of my best movie dads!

    1. Kirsty T says:

      Tbh, I think Mr Levenstein made the American Pie films, he was such a great character.

      Thanks for commenting.

  3. Keith says:

    This is such a fun list. I think what I love most is the variety. Great job.

    1. Kirsty T says:

      Thanks 🙂

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