Let’s be real—there’s no better way to kick back with your old man and share a great movie with him. If he’s all about alien takeovers, tearjerkers, or just enjoys a good Adam Sandler joke, there’s a movie out there with “Father’s Day” stamped right across it. Take some snacks, grab the best spot on the couch, and take a look at this countdown of 15 dad-perfect movies to see this Father’s Day.
15. Daddy Day Care (2003)
Eddie Murphy and Jeff Garlin become instant daycare owners overnight—and anarchy ensues. This lighthearted comedy is full of parenting gaffes, begrudging transformation, and a whole lot of toddler-induced chaos. It’s an entertaining ride for dads who’ve lived the actual battle of maneuvering wee humans.
14. Cheaper by the Dozen (2003)
Twelve children. One father. Nonstop laughter. Steve Martin stars as a devoted dad dealing with a large family and a stressful new career, providing a sidesplitting peek at the chaos—and sweetness—of large-scale parenting. Any father who’s ever felt outgunned will identify.
13. The Incredibles (2004)
Superheroes collide with suburbia as Mr. Incredible attempts to balance crime-fighting with fatherhood. With breathtaking animation and lots of heart, this Pixar classic is a reminder that home is where the hero is.
12. Home Team (2022)
When an NFL coach (Kevin James) is put on suspension, he goes home and makes up for lost time with his son by mentoring the youth football team. It’s half redemption story, half underdog sports movie, and all about catch-up time.
11. Big Daddy (1999)
Adam Sandler becomes an accidental father when a child drops into his life, and everything gets out of control in the best possible way. It’s goofy, sloppy, and unexpectedly sentimental—just like being a dad.
10. The Adam Project (2022)
Action, time travel, and a healing father-son collide when Ryan Reynolds encounters his younger self and grapples with the legacy of his deceased father. It’s equal parts sci-fi thrill ride and emotional reboot, and somewhat surprisingly touching for a space ship movie.
9. Finding Nemo (2003)
Marlin’s odyssey through the sea to locate his son is one of the most poignant (and vivid) quests out there. From jellyfish close calls to fish tank escape attempts, it’s a tale of release and yet holding on—a parental tightrope every father navigates.
8. Fatherhood (2021)
Kevin Hart swaps jokes for emotion in this powerful film based on a real-life experience. Having just lost his wife, a new dad must care for his daughter on his own, dealing with grief, diapers, and all the rest.
7. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
Adventure is a family thing in this third Indy adventure. With Harrison Ford and Sean Connery snarling through ancient temples and Nazi pursuits, it’s the quintessential father-son thing—fistfights, artifacts, and all.
6. Field of Dreams (1989)
“Build it and he will come.” Kevin Costner’s enchanted baseball diamond is the backdrop for one of the most emotionally charged father-son moments on film. Sentimental and nostalgic, it’s a must-see for anyone who ever tossed a ball around with Dad.
5. The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Arguably, the most well-known paternal plot twist in existence. The second Star Wars movie offers us action, philosophy, and the galaxy’s most complex family dynamic. Regardless of whether Dad’s a long-time Jedi or a new convert, this one hurts.
4. The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021)
A disastrous family road trip becomes a robot apocalypse—and somehow, it brings them closer. This animated film is weird, funny, and incredibly heartfelt. Bonus points if your dad’s ever had technology issues.
3. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Robin Williams at his best. Dressed as a Scottish nanny, he’s a father doing whatever it takes to be in his children’s lives. Under the slapstick is a gentle tale of love, loss, and a father’s insistence on being present.
2. Big Fish (2003)
A son attempts to get to the bottom of his father’s fantastical tales and learns more than he ever could have imagined. It’s whimsical, emotional, and strikes at the very center of father-son relationships—and myths that we construct about our parents.
1. Field of Dreams (1989)
Yes, again. Because when it comes to dad-themed movies, Field of Dreams just resonates differently. That last game of catch? It’s movie magic. If you only see one movie with your dad this year, make it this one.
And there you have it—the perfect Father’s Day watchlist. Whether you’re laughing together over belly laughs or wiping away a few (unspoken) tears, these films have something for every type of dad—and every type of child.