I can’t wait to see the new Tom Hanks 9/11 inspired movie “Up Close and Extremely Loud” — a movie about a boy and his father.  I get the lump in my throat just from the trailer…  haven’t felt that verklempt since Michael Keaton’s “My Life”…www.imdb.com/title/tt0107630/

So I got to thinking… what makes a great Dad movie?

As I thought about this very important question 🙂 – I realized that the best dad movies to me were the films that highlighted an area of what makes a great dad… some make you cry (Big Fish and Field of Dreams) — others make you laugh (Vacation, Liar Liar) — but my top 11 movies seem to all focus on all the aspects of my own fatherhood and the various hats I wear as a Dad.    What do you think?  Do you agree with my selections?   Did I miss some obvious ones that you love?

Here is my list of the GREATEST DAD movies of all TIME!!

  1. Field of Dreams  (1988)

Jeff, the author, AT the Field of Dreams in 1992 (that’s how obsessed I am with “Field of Dreams”)
How can you even dispute this incredible movie?  Just try… 🙂

2.  To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

Classic strong dad teaching his children about respect, values, and integrity… great stuff.. Gregory Peck was a DUDE..

3. Finding Nemo     (2003)

Marlin and Nemo

Finally a Disney stereotype I LIKE — a Dad doing anything for his Son (including finding him 🙂

4. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

How far would you go for a little Roy Wally Fun?

5. the Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Say what you will about Will Smith, but this is an incredibly powerful movie!

6. Big Fish  (2003)

Another powerful movie… a forgotten Gem (that’s a lame cliche, but its true.. IMHFO, this movie never got the respect it deserved..)

7. Liar Liar (1997)

I’m NOMO, you can’t do this to me, I’m NOMO….  classic dad that needs to FOLLOW THROUGH on what he promises…

8. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

How far would you go to see your kids?

9. Mr. Mom  (1983)

A movie well before its time!

10. Father of the Bride  (1991)

Every dad with a Daughter connect with one of Steve Martin’s best (aside from Planes, Trains, and Automobiles)

11. Life is Beautiful  (1997)

Heartbreaking, tear jerking, and powerful — so many emotions in one movie — you will HUG your kids after this one…

Well, what do you think? That’s my 11 BEST Dad movies EVER…

Do you agree?  What movies did I miss?

Please comment — add your thoughts and my omissions…