Fatherhood in Six Films

Hello film fans! This month, our theme delves into the complexities and nuances of fatherhood as portrayed in cinema. From poignant dramas to heartfelt comedies, these six films, spanning several decades, offer a diverse set of options. There are some very vulnerable performances in this selection, and I hope you come out of the other side of it with something to reflect on. Which will you choose this Father's Day?

---

The Godfather (1972)

Director: Francis Ford Coppola

2 hours & 55 minutes

Stream on Paramount+

Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Vito Corleone is iconic. Illustrating a patriarch’s struggle to balance loyalty with the ruthless demands of his mafia empire you'll be transported the whole way through. This film intricately examines the sacrifices and moral complexities involved in fatherhood, especially when a father's legacy casts a long, often dark, shadow over his children's lives. If you have the time, follow it with Godfather Part II and Part III to dig into the evolution of the Corleone family saga.

For fans of epic crime dramas, intricate family sagas, and timeless cinematic masterpieces

---

Paper Moon (1973)

Director: Peter Bogdanovich

1 hour & 45 minutes

Only available for purchase

(it's Paramount property and could return)

A charming but complicated comedy-drama set during the Great Depression. The film stars real-life father and daughter Ryan and Tatum O'Neal as a con artist and a young girl who may or may not be his daughter. The duo embarks on a series of cons across the Midwest, forming an unconventional yet touching bond. This film explores themes of trust and the instinctual drive to protect and provide, even within the unlikely confines of their grifting lifestyle.

For fans of charming road trip adventures, witty dialogue, and delightful father-daughter dynamics

---

This Boy’s Life (1993)

Director: Michael Caton-Jones

1 hour & 55 minutes

Only available for purchase

Based on Tobias Wolff's memoir, this film stars Robert De Niro and a young Leonardo DiCaprio, depicting the turbulent relationship between a young boy and his abusive stepfather. This story takes us into the unfortunate reality of child abuse, where the desire for control and authority can lead to a toxic and damaging environment, yet also showcases the resilience and determination of a boy seeking to break free. Pair this one with "Killers of the Flower Moon" released 30 years later with the same stars and a same incredible dynamic.

For fans of powerful coming-of-age stories, intense family dynamics, and exceptional performances

---

Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Director: Chris Columbus

2 hours

Stream on Disney+

Starring the one-of-a-kind Robin Williams in one of his most memorable roles. In this film, after a bitter divorce, a father disguises himself as a British nanny to stay close to his children. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the film portrays the lengths to which a father will go to be a part of his children's lives, emphasizing themes of love, personal growth, commitment, and the challenges of maintaining family bonds amidst the upheaval of a broken home. Helmed by Chris Columbus who also brought us Home Alone and Harry Potter 1 & 2, this movie brings us scene after memorable scene. Competing Father figures make this one doubly father-themed, as a young Pierce Brosnan steps in as potential step-father much too soon.

For fans of heartwarming comedies, difficult realities, and Robin Williams' unparalleled comedic genius

---

The Road (2009)

Director: John Hillcoat

1 hour & 59 minutes

Stream on Starz

Adapted from Cormac McCarthy's novel, this film follows a father (played by Viggo Mortensen) and his young son as they navigate a desolate and dangerous post-apocalyptic landscape in search of safety. In their desperate journey, the father becomes not only a protector but also a source of hope and guidance for his son, imparting essential survival skills and moral lessons amidst the bleakness of their surroundings. The film beautifully captures the unwavering bond between father and son, portraying their unyielding love and devotion to each other as they face unimaginable hardships and challenges together.

For fans of post-apocalyptic survival dramas, stark cinematography and bleak outcomes

---

Made in Italy (2020)

Director: James D'Arcy

1 hour & 34 minutes

Stream on Netflix or Hulu

This film follows Liam Neeson's character, a bohemian artist, who travels to Tuscany with his estranged son, Jack (played by his real son Micheál Richardson), to sell the family villa they inherited from Robert's late wife. The villa, once a cherished family home, has fallen into disrepair, much like Robert and Jack's relationship. As they work together to restore the house, they confront their shared grief and unresolved tensions, leading to a journey of healing and understanding.

The film's exploration of loss and the impact of a mother's death closely mirrors their own experience following the tragic passing of Natasha Richardson. This parallel made the film deeply emotional for me almost blurring the lines between performance and reality. At times, the portrayal of their grief feels so intimate that it almost seems intrusive. This catharsis by proxy allows the audience to engage deeply with the characters' emotional journey, hopefully finding solace and reflection in their story.

For fans of films where travel lead to personal growth and happy endings

---

These films, though diverse in genre and tone aim to highlight the enduring themes of protection, legacy, sacrifice, and reconciliation. Each story sheds light on different aspects of the father-child dynamic.

Ultimately, these films underscore that fatherhood is a complex, multifaceted journey filled with challenges and triumphs. They remind us that while the role of a father can be fraught with difficulties, it is also one of the most profoundly impactful relationships in our lives. This month's cinematic journey into fatherhood encourages us to reflect on these relationships and appreciate the nuanced portrayals that have graced our screens over the years.