10 “Dad movies” that are (honestly) worth a watch

There’s a specific type of movie that fathers gravitate towards. More than just big budget war blockbusters, more than just Rudy (1993) or Remember the Titans (2000), these films vary from road movies to campy horror to the occasional rom com. They’ve all got a certain something, radiating khaki shorts and sneakers in celluloid form. Some “Dad movies” are skippable, to be sure, but here’s a few worth the rental fee:

1.     Planet of the Apes (1968)

Dads love it for its The Twilight Zone vibe, but every time I watch the original Planet of the Apes I’m struck by its eerie, still relevant warnings on humanity’s capacity for self-destruction.

2.     Burn After Reading (2008)

This Coen Brothers’ gem is packed with just enough comedy, suspense, and stars – including Brad Pitt, Tilda Swinton, and John Malkovich – to keep audiences of all generations engaged.

3.     Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)

One might think the film’s 1978 incarnation is superior, but this campy, funny, and yes – still terrifying – horror flick remains an entertaining watch.

4.     Fandango (1985)

This Tarantino-approved but oft-forgotten road movie is worth it for the skydiving scene alone.

5.     Tron (1982)

The dated visual effects of this early 80s Disney film make for a charming, nostalgic family movie night.

6.     Tin Cup (1996)

Tin Cup is THE quintessential golf movie, surpassing Caddyshack (1980) and Happy Gilmore (1996) in my book (and your dad’s).

7.     Almost Famous (2000)

The epic soundtrack fueling Cameron Crowe’s walk down memory lane is catnip for our flannel clad forebearers and made even more captivating via standout performances by Frances McDormand and Billy Crudup.

8.     The Rookie (2002)

Dad movies don’t necessarily have to be about dads, but the scene of baseball player Jim Morris (Dennis Quaid) helping his son with his math homework from a phone booth is enough to grant The Rookie a spot on this list.

9.     Rain Man (1988)

This wouldn’t be a list about dads if there wasn’t at least one that’s aged a little poorly.

10.  It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

I think every father (and person) sees a little of themselves in George Bailey’s journey towards realizing “no man is a failure who has friends,” and I’ve spent too many Christmases watching Capra’s masterpiece opposite my own dad not to include it on this list.

*** Originally written for CTCS 402: Practicum in Film and Television Criticism