George Banks (Steve Martin) in Father of the Bride

Comedian Martin has made a career out of playing wacky dads whose hearts are in the right place. Essential viewing includes Parenthood, Cheaper By the Dozen (1 and 2) and, of course, Father of the Bride in which he plays the hapless George Banks, a father caught up in the frenzy that is his daughter’s (and the apple of his eye) high-priced wedding. This one’s a must-see for any dad with a daughter.

Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams) in Mrs. Doubtfire

Even on repeat viewings, this comedy stands the test of time thanks to Williams’ hilarious portrayal of a man who will do anything to be with his kids including dressing up as an elderly, female nanny. Though a comedy, this film deals with the serious topic of divorce and what it does to a family. Touching and funny, this is Williams at his best.

Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson) in The Incredibles

Poor Bob Parr. Not only is he a superhero forced to take a desk job; he’s also a family man in the midst of a mid-life crisis (spandex can only stretch over that paunch so far). When an effort to reclaim some of his former glory goes horribly awry, Mr. Incredible, along with his wife and kids, discover that everybody has a role to play in keeping a family working — even a family of superheroes.

Chris Gardner (Will Smith) in The Pursuit of Happyness

Just try not to cry during this film inspired by a true story. Will Smith plays a single, down-and-out father caring for his young son (played by Smith’s real-life son Jaden) while trying to land a lucrative job that could change everything for them. The message that anything is possible if you work hard for it comes through loud and clear.

Marlin the Clownfish (Albert Brooks) in Finding Nemo

Okay, another animated film but Marlin is the stereotypical worried father that any dad can relate to. When his son Nemo is netted and placed in a dentist’s fish tank hundreds of kilometres away, Marlin faces his own fears to cross the ocean to find his son. Why? Because that is what any great dad would do.

Who’s your favourite movie dad? Tell us in the comments below!