Movies About Fathers And Daughters

From Frank Capra, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell
Rated PG

It's a Wonderful Life is a classic 1946 Christmas film directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who has given up on his dreams in order to help the people of his small town of Bedford Falls. On Christmas Eve, George is faced with financial ruin and considers suicide, until his guardian angel, Clarence Odbody, arrives to show him what life would have been like had he never been born. Through a series of flashbacks and interactions with the people of Bedford Falls, George comes to appreciate the impact his life has had on his community, and ultimately decides to live. The film is considered a timeless classic and is a staple of the Christmas holiday season.

From Robert Mulligan, starring Gregory Peck, John Megna, Frank Overton, Rosemary Murphy
Rated Approved

To Kill a Mockingbird is a 1962 American drama film based on Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. The film was directed by Robert Mulligan and stars Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, a lawyer in a small Depression-era town in Alabama who defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge. In the film, Finch's daughter, Scout, and her friend, Jem, witness the unjust treatment of their neighbor, Tom Robinson. Despite evidence proving Robinson's innocence, he is convicted and later dies trying to escape prison. The children then learn valuable lessons about courage, empathy, and justice from their father, Atticus. The film also touches upon themes of racism, class differences, and gender inequality. At the time of its release, To Kill a Mockingbird was a critical and commercial success, and it was nominated for eight Academy Awards. It went on to win three Oscars, including Best Actor for Peck, and is considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made.

From Clint Eastwood, starring Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman, Jay Baruchel
Rated PG-13

Million Dollar Baby tells the story of Maggie Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank), an ambitious young waitress with a burning desire to become a professional boxer. After being rejected by numerous trainers, she finally finds an unlikely mentor in Frankie Dunn (Clint Eastwood), an aging boxing trainer who reluctantly agrees to take her on as a student. Through hard work and dedication, Maggie rises in the ranks to become a professional boxer. However, a tragic event in the ring leaves Maggie in a coma, and Frankie must decide whether to let her live on as a vegetable, or take the ultimate step to end her suffering. The film follows the heart-wrenching story of Maggie, Frankie, and their friendship, and explores the themes of ambition, friendship, and sacrifice.

From Peter Bogdanovich, starring Ryan O'Neal, Tatum O'Neal, Madeline Kahn, John Hillerman
Rated PG

Paper Moon is a 1973 American romantic comedy film directed by Peter Bogdanovich and starring Ryan and Tatum O'Neal. The plot focuses on an unconventional father-daughter team who travel across the 1930s American Midwest conning people out of their money. The story revolves around Moses Pray (Ryan O'Neal), a con artist who is trying to make a living by selling bibles door-to-door. He meets Addie Loggins (Tatum O'Neal), a nine-year-old orphan who claims to be his daughter. Despite their considerable differences, the two form an unlikely bond as they travel together across the Midwest in search of easy money. Along the way, they meet a variety of people, ranging from religious fanatics to con-artists, and learn a lot about each other and themselves. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning three Academy Award nominations and winning an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for Tatum O'Neal, making her the youngest person ever to win an Academy Award at the time.

From Denis Villeneuve, starring Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Melissa Leo
Rated R

Prisoners is a 2013 American thriller film directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Aaron Guzikowski. The film stars Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard, and Melissa Leo. The story follows two families in a small Pennsylvania town whose daughters are abducted on Thanksgiving Day. The parents' search for their daughters leads them to a suspect, Alex Jones (Paul Dano), a mentally challenged young man. When the police are unable to make a case against him, desperate father Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) takes matters into his own hands, kidnapping and holding Alex captive. The investigation is further complicated when Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal), assigned to the case, begins to suspect that there might be more to the abduction than meets the eye. Prisoners is a suspense-filled drama that examines the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, as they struggle to find the truth while facing their own personal demons. Through its powerful performances and thought-provoking story, the film reaffirms that in times of darkness, hope and faith can be found in the most unexpected places.

From Ron Howard, starring Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Craig Bierko, Paul Giamatti
Rated PG-13

Cinderella Man is a 2005 American biographical sports drama film directed by Ron Howard and written by Cliff Hollingsworth and Akiva Goldsman. The film stars Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul Giamatti, and Craig Bierko. The film tells the story of James J. Braddock, a down-on-his-luck boxer during the Great Depression who, against all odds, becomes an unlikely champion and hero. Despite being written off as an underdog, Braddock, with the support of his wife, Mae and manager, Joe Gould, makes a triumphant return to the ring and rises all the way to the heavyweight championship. Along the way, Braddock, who had been forced to work as a longshoreman in order to support his family, finds the courage to make a stand against the political and economic forces that had robbed him of his rightful place as a contender. The film climaxes with Braddock's legendary match against world champion boxer Max Baer in June 1935. The film received generally positive reviews and was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Crowe, and Best Supporting Actor for Giamatti.

From Directors: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris, starring Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear, Abigail Breslin
Rated R

Little Miss Sunshine is a 2006 American comedy-drama road film directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris and written by Michael Arndt. The film stars Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Paul Dano, Abigail Breslin, and Alan Arkin, and follows a family's cross-country journey to a children's beauty pageant. The Hoover family, consisting of Richard (Greg Kinnear), Sheryl (Toni Collette), Dwayne (Paul Dano), Frank (Steve Carell), Olive (Abigail Breslin), and Grandpa (Alan Arkin), embarks on a journey from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Redondo Beach, California to fulfill Olive's dream of participating in the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant. Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles and experiences that help them to grow as a family and bond together. Ultimately, Olive discovers that the true beauty pageant is not what she is wearing or how she performs, but in simply being herself.

From Pierre Morel, starring Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Leland Orser
Rated PG-13

Taken is a 2008 action thriller film directed by Pierre Morel and starring Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, and Famke Janssen. After retired CIA operative Bryan Mills (Neeson) discovers that his daughter Kim (Grace) has been kidnapped by human traffickers while on a trip to Paris, he sets out on a one-man mission to rescue her, using his unique set of skills to track down her captors. With the clock ticking and his daughter's life in danger, Mills must use all of his resources to find her before it's too late. Along the way, he meets a mysterious figure (Janssen) who helps him on his journey, as he battles against a powerful criminal underworld that will stop at nothing to protect its interests.

From Joe Wright, starring Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Brenda Blethyn, Donald Sutherland
Rated PG

Pride & Prejudice is a romantic comedy-drama based on Jane Austen’s classic novel about the complicated lives of the wealthy and powerful Bennet family in England during the 19th century. The film follows the life of the eldest Bennet daughter, Elizabeth, who is determined to find true love despite the societal pressures of her time. Along the way, she clashes with her mother, clashes with the arrogant Mr. Darcy, and discovers the true meaning of love and friendship.

From Boaz Yakin, starring Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris, Ryan Hurst
Rated PG

Remember the Titans is a 2000 American sports drama film directed by Boaz Yakin, starring Denzel Washington. Set in 1971, the film follows the story of a newly appointed African-American football coach, Herman Boone (Washington), who is hired to lead T. C. Williams High School's football team in Alexandria, Virginia. Despite the racial tensions present in the town, Boone and his assistant coach, Bill Yoast (Will Patton), lead the team to success, winning the 1971 state championship, while bringing the community together in the process. Along the way, the team must overcome their own personal conflicts, as well as those stemming from their differing racial backgrounds.

From Tony Scott, starring Denzel Washington, Christopher Walken, Dakota Fanning, Radha Mitchell
Rated R

Man on Fire is a powerful action-drama film directed by Tony Scott and starring Denzel Washington. The film follows an ex-CIA operative, John Creasy, who is hired as a bodyguard to a young girl, Pita Ramos, living in Mexico City. When Pita is kidnapped by a criminal organization, Creasy embarks on a relentless quest to rescue her and exact revenge on those responsible. Along the way, he forms an unlikely bond with Pita's family and finds himself questioning his own motives and morality as his mission of revenge becomes more personal. At its core, Man on Fire is a story of redemption and justice.

From Rob Reiner, starring Madeline Carroll, Callan McAuliffe, Rebecca De Mornay, Anthony Edwards
Rated PG

Flipped is a romantic comedy-drama film directed by Rob Reiner and based on the novel of the same name by Wendelin Van Draanen. The film follows the story of two 8th graders, Juli and Bryce, who are neighbors and have been at odds since the day they met. As the two grow, their feelings towards each other begin to change and a budding romance begins to form. The film explores the struggles of a first love as Juli and Bryce go through the ups and downs of Middle School. Along the way, the story also touches on themes of acceptance, family and growing up. The film ends on a sweet note as Juli and Bryce embrace their newfound love for each other.

From Preston Sturges, starring Barbara Stanwyck, Henry Fonda, Charles Coburn, Eugene Pallette
Rated Passed

The Lady Eve is a screwball romantic comedy directed by Preston Sturges and starring Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda. The film follows con artists Jean and Charles Pike (Stanwyck and Fonda), who meet aboard a cruise ship and fall in love. Despite their initial attraction, Charles is unaware of Jean's true identity as the daughter of a famous conman. As Charles attempts to woo Jean, she hatches a plan to con him out of his fortune. Along the way, Jean and Charles must confront their feelings for each other and decide between love and money.

From Marc Webb, starring Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace, Lindsay Duncan, Octavia Spencer
Rated PG-13

Gifted is a 2017 American drama film directed by Marc Webb and written by Tom Flynn. The film stars Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace, Lindsay Duncan, Jenny Slate and Octavia Spencer. The story follows Frank Adler (Chris Evans), a single man raising his seven-year old niece Mary (Mckenna Grace) in a coastal town in Florida. Frank discovers that Mary is a math prodigy, and attempts to protect her from the intrusive world of academics. However, Mary’s grandmother Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan) takes legal action to gain custody of Mary and move her to a school for gifted children. Frank and Mary are forced to fight for their family and face the prospect of being separated.

From Directors: Ron Clements, John Musker, Don Hall, Chris Williams, starring Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House, Temuera Morrison
Rated PG

Moana is an animated musical adventure film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The story follows the strong-willed daughter of a Polynesian chief, Moana, as she sets out on an epic journey to save her people. In order to do so, she must embark on a daring mission across the ocean, facing her fears and the wrath of the demigod Maui. Along the way, Moana meets a cast of colorful characters, faces formidable foes and discovers the power of her true identity. With the help of her newfound friends, Moana must confront her deepest fears, take on impossible challenges and ultimately, save her people.

From Jessie Nelson, starring Sean Penn, Michelle Pfeiffer, Dakota Fanning, Dianne Wiest
Rated PG-13

I Am Sam is a 2001 American drama film that follows Sam Dawson (Sean Penn), a man with mental disabilities who is raising his daughter Lucy Diamond (Dakota Fanning). After Lucy is taken away by Child Services, Sam embarks on a legal battle to get her back. Along the way, he finds help from a young lawyer, Rita Harrison (Michelle Pfeiffer), who helps him understand the legal system and how to be a better parent. With her help, he is able to prove to the court that he is capable of providing a safe and loving home for Lucy. In the end, Sam is reunited with his daughter and they begin to build a fresh start.

From Matthew Vaughn, starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Nicolas Cage, Chloë Grace Moretz, Garrett M. Brown
Rated R

Kick-Ass is a 2010 action-comedy film directed by Matthew Vaughn and based on the comic book series of the same name by Mark Millar and John Romita Jr. The film stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Chloë Grace Moretz, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse in the lead roles. The story follows Dave Lizewski (Taylor-Johnson), an ordinary teenage boy who decides to take up crime-fighting as a hobby. He creates a costume and adopts the moniker "Kick-Ass", becoming an overnight Internet sensation in the process. However, his newfound fame attracts the attention of the ruthless mob boss Frank D'Amico (Mark Strong), who sends his goons to investigate who is behind Kick-Ass's mask. Meanwhile, Hit-Girl (Moretz), a highly trained pre-teen assassin, and her father Big Daddy (Nicolas Cage) are out to take down Frank D'Amico. With the help of Kick-Ass, they take on Frank and his gang in a series of spectacular and often comedic battles. In the end, Kick-Ass and Hit-Girl prevail, and Dave learns the important lesson that with great power comes great responsibility.

From Billy Wilder, starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, William Holden, Walter Hampden
Rated Passed

Sabrina (1954), directed by Billy Wilder, is a romantic comedy set in New York. It tells the story of Sabrina Fairchild, the daughter of a wealthy Long Island family's chauffeur, who falls in love with the son of her father's employers. The older son, David Larrabee, is a playboy accustomed to getting what he wants, while the younger, Linus Larrabee, is a workaholic businessman. After a failed romance with David, Sabrina goes to Paris for two years to study the art of cooking. When she returns, her transformation from an awkward teenager to a sophisticated woman catches the eye of both brothers. As their rivalry for Sabrina's affections intensifies, Linus must decide if he will give up his business ambitions and let love into his life. In the end, Sabrina gets her happy ending with the man she loves. The film stars Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden.

From Richard LaGravenese, starring Hilary Swank, Imelda Staunton, Patrick Dempsey, Scott Glenn
Rated PG-13

Freedom Writers is a 2007 drama film directed by Richard LaGravenese and starring Hilary Swank. The film is based on the true story of Wilson High School teacher Erin Gruwell and her remarkable efforts to teach her class of at-risk and underprivileged students. Despite being met with hostility and skepticism by the administration, Gruwell uses unconventional methods to reach out to her students and teach them the value of tolerance and respect for one another. Through her guidance, the students become dedicated to their studies, forming strong bonds with their teacher and ultimately each other. By the end of their high school years, the students have achieved remarkable academic success and become dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

From Richard Donner, starring Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Gary Busey, Mitchell Ryan
Rated R

Lethal Weapon is a classic action/buddy cop movie from 1987 directed by Richard Donner. The film stars Mel Gibson and Danny Glover as mismatched detectives Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh, respectively. When Riggs, a Vietnam veteran and loose cannon, is assigned to the homicide division of the LAPD, he is paired with Murtaugh, a family man approaching retirement. The two must set aside their differences and team up to investigate a drug smuggling ring, led by a former mercenary-turned-drug lord. The investigation leads them to confront a psychotic Vietnam veteran, who is also the brother of Riggs' deceased wife. Ultimately, the two detectives must rely on their wits, courage, and friendship as they face off with the criminal boss and his henchmen. The movie contains plenty of memorable action sequences, featuring car chases, shootouts, and explosions. Ultimately, Lethal Weapon is an entertaining and classic movie that is sure to entertain any fan of action films.

From Tom Hooper, starring Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried
Rated PG-13

Les Misérables is a 2012 musical drama film directed by Tom Hooper, based on the novel of the same name by Victor Hugo. The story takes place in 19th-century France and follows the lives of Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), a former prisoner, and Fantine (Anne Hathaway), a struggling single mother. Valjean is determined to turn his life around and break free of his past, while Fantine is forced to make difficult choices to support her daughter, Cosette (Amanda Seyfried). Valjean promises to take care of Cosette, but is pursued by the relentless police inspector Javert (Russell Crowe). As the story progresses, Valjean and Javert's relationship evolves, as do the lives of an ensemble of characters, including the revolutionary student Marius (Eddie Redmayne) and his friends Eponine (Samantha Barks) and Cosette. The film follows the struggles of these characters as their paths cross in the fight for redemption, justice, and love.

From Phil Alden Robinson, starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, Amy Madigan
Rated PG

Field of Dreams is a 1989 American fantasy-drama film written and directed by Phil Alden Robinson, adapted from W.P. Kinsella's 1982 novel Shoeless Joe. The film stars Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, and Burt Lancaster in his last film role. The film follows an Iowa corn farmer, Ray Kinsella (Costner), who hears a voice telling him to turn his cornfield into a baseball diamond. He does so, despite protests from his family and neighbors, and the field eventually becomes the site of a magical baseball game featuring the Chicago White Sox players from the 1919 Black Sox scandal. Ray's quest to complete the field brings him into contact with the ghosts of previous baseball greats, and ultimately reveals that his mission is to reunite his father with his long-lost brother and reconcile their strained relationship. Field of Dreams has become a cult classic, and is considered one of the best films of all time.

From James Wan, starring Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor
Rated R

The Conjuring is a supernatural horror film by James Wan released in 2013. It tells the story of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, who are called upon to help the Perron family, who are terrorized by an evil spirit in their farmhouse. The Warrens battle the spirit using their knowledge of the supernatural and their faith in God to protect the family. As the hauntings become more and more extreme, Ed and Lorraine must confront their own demons in order to save the Perrons and their home. With its intense scares and thrilling story, The Conjuring has become a classic in the horror genre.

From Directors: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa, starring Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone
Rated PG-13

From David Dobkin, starring Robert Downey Jr., Robert Duvall, Vera Farmiga, Billy Bob Thornton
Rated R