All right, so it's Father's Day, thus I shall list some great movies that are simply perfect to watch with your dad (or if you're a dad, to watch with your kids) and get all warm and fuzzy. Unfortunately, most of the films I'll be listing are Father-Son relationships, for reasons I can't comprehend, there just aren't that many Father-Daughter movies I can think of.
Right, so let me begin. Note: They aren't in any particular order.
The Lion King (1994) = Can't really think of any other Disney films that depicts a father-son relationship in such a moving manner. Even Arnold Schwarzenegger wept when he saw Mufasa's death scene (remembered him saying that in a long-ago interview with Premiere magazine). Definitely one of the best Disney films during its 'second Golden Era' (the 90s). Stay away from its straight-to-video sequels though (although Lion King 1/2 isn't THAT bad).
Road To Perdition (2002) = I saw this with my dad in the cinemas and I got all choked up and teary-eyed. A boy finds out what his hitman dad does for a living, bonds of loyalty are tested. Tragedy strikes, the hitman has to fight to protect his son while seeking those who betrayed him. Yes, definitely a must-watch.
Big Fish (2003) = A son tries to learn the truth about his dying dad via the numerous fantastical tall tales and myths his father used to tell him in this fabulous Tim Burton film. Once tremendously annoyed with his dad's stories, the son slowly accepts all these as a part of his dad. To me, this is a better film than Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The Barbarian Invasions (2003) = Winner of Best Foreign Film oscar, this is also another tale about a man trying to deal with his dying estranged father just like Big Fish, but without the fantastical elements. (this French Canadian film is kinda like a more realistic and darker twin of Big Fish) A millionaire struggles to forgive his father for his womanizing ways that led to him abandoning the family years ago, and attempts to arrange a gathering with all his father's friends so that they can share his last breath.
All About Ah Long (1989) = The West may only know Chow Yun Fat for his action roles. Which is unfortunate, because in this award-winning role of his, Chow Yun Fat was simply mesmerizing as a poor penniless single father trying to raise his son. They both enjoy a fine relationship... until the son's mother returns to reclaim him. It's sheer Asian melodrama, with a heartwrenching motorcycle race ending that will haunt anyone who has seen the film. The film definitely destroyed me when I first saw it all those years ago. (read Lovehkfilm's review here)
Stars Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Stars Wars VI: Return of the Jedi (1983): ... I'm kidding. But it's possible.
Father Of The Bride (1991): I was running out of ideas, thus I asked my little sister to suggest a good father-child film. She suggested Cheaper By the Dozen (2003). I cringed. But I went off to check Steve Martin's filmography because I vaguely remembered he had something nice watching. And I ended up find this film. This one's more about father-daughter, a father has to deal with letting his little girl go as she is about to get married. Pretty enjoyable and heartwarming comedy, even though it's largely forgotten.
I Am Sam (2001): A mentally handicapped man (Sean Penn) fights for the custody of his 7-year-old daughter (Dakota Fanning). I don't think I need to say more.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989): Many regard this the best Indiana Jones film around because we get to see Indy's funny relationship with his dad, Dr Henry Jones (Sean Connery). Let's hope he'll return for Indiana Jones 4.
Jersey Girl (2004): All right, I'm seriously kidding.
That is all I can think of so far. Not the greatest list around. What about you? Any good father-child films to suggest for Father's Day?
