The Best Single Dad Movies Ever Made
This list has the best movies about single dads, ranked from best to worst by user votes. The best single dad movies come in many forms. Some single father relationship movies are about struggling with their kids while other movies about single fathers are comedies. Movies like Signs and War of the Worlds feature single dads as heroes in science fiction situations.
What films will you find on this best single father movie list? Will Smith teamed-up with his real-life son, Jaden Smith, for the 2006 film, The Pursuit of Happyness. The movie, which was based on Chris Garder's memoir of the same name, shows the struggles facing a homeless single father as he works to turn his life around. Finding Nemo is a classic animated movie about a single dad. Love Actually is another good movie that features a single father storyline.
Dustin Hoffman won an Academy Award for his role as a single father fighting for custody in Kramer vs. Kramer. Other good films that appear on this top single dad movies list include Finding Nemo, Big Daddy, and The Descendants.
Do you have a favorite single father film? Vote the best movies to the top of this list and please add any good single dad films we may have missed.
- Ben Foster, Thomasin McKenzie, Jeff Kober
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Debra Granik
Embarking on a heartwarming journey through the dense forests of Oregon, Leave No Trace showcases an endearing father-daughter bond strengthened by survival. Through emotionally raw performances, Ben Foster embodies the role of a single father, while Thomasin McKenzie plays his devoted daughter. Together, they captivate the screen and navigate the trials of a minimalist lifestyle, untamed wilderness, and a search for belonging.
- Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Andrew Stanton
Through its delectable blend of undersea exploration and touching single father narrative, Finding Nemo has cemented itself as an undeniable Pixar gem. Voiced by Albert Brooks, Marlin's relentless pursuit of his captured son Nemo, played by Alexander Gould, showcases the unyielding resolve of paternal love. Experience the heartwarming adventure of a lifetime, wrapped in vibrant animation and a star-studded cast that celebrates the timelessness, courage, and indomitable bond of a devoted father and his son.
- Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandie Newton
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Gabriele Muccino
Delivering an Oscar-nominated performance, Will Smith touches the soul as struggling salesman-turned-single-father Chris Gardner in The Pursuit of Happyness. The film unravels an inspiring true story of resilience and unwavering dedication as Gardner overcomes incredible odds to provide a stable life for his son, played with captivating sincerity by Smith's real-life son, Jaden. Transcending the screen with its moving story and remarkable performances, The Pursuit of Happyness is a timeless ode to the powerful bond between father and child.
- Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alford
- Released: 1962
- Directed by: Robert Mulligan
A masterpiece of American cinema, To Kill a Mockingbird highlights the gripping performance of Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, the courageous single father and lawyer who stands up for justice amidst rampant racial prejudice. The film is an enduring adaptation of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, with a narrative intricately woven with themes of morality, compassion, and the hallowed father-child bond between Finch and Scout, portrayed by the magnificent Mary Badham. Lauded and beloved by audiences and critics alike, To Kill a Mockingbird remains a timeless testament to the unwavering strength of family ties and the unbreakable spirit of fatherly devotion.
- Jodi Benson, Pat Carroll, Christopher Daniel Barnes
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Ron Clements, John Musker
In this cherished Disney classic, The Little Mermaid presents an unforgettable tale brimming with enchantment, romance, and adventure, while putting a refined emphasis on the touching relationship between King Triton and his headstrong daughter, Ariel. With its celebrated and award-winning musical scores, the film remains beloved across generations for the immortal tunes and memorable cast. Experience the magic and dive into the depths of unconditional love and protective parenting in this timeless tale.
- Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Mark Strong
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Matthew Vaughn
Kick-Ass takes the audience on a wild ride with Aaron Taylor-Johnson's distinctive portrayal of a high school student turned vigilante, alongside Nicolas Cage's fearless dedication as Big Daddy, a single father with a vengeful mission. The film injects a riveting layer of depth to the superhero genre, blending intense action with tender and relatable moments between father and daughter. A cult classic, Kick-Ass leaves you with no shortage of postmodern superhero charisma and engrossing family dynamics.
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