Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to laugh, cry, and maybe awkwardly side-hug your old man while watching a movie that hits just the right note. Whether you’re looking for an unconventional comedy, a sweet slice of parenthood, or a surprisingly emotional take on fatherly love, this list of dad-themed films has something for every kind of family vibe. So grab the remote, cue up the snacks, and celebrate fatherhood in all its forms with these streaming picks that are as flawed, funny, and lovable as dads themselves.
Big Daddy (1999)
Sonny Koufax, a 32-year-old slacker played by Adam Sandler, has zero interest in adulthood until a five-year-old boy unexpectedly enters his life. Claiming to be the child of Sonny’s estranged roommate, the boy is dropped off with nowhere to go. What begins as a reckless attempt to impress his girlfriend turns into something more heartfelt, as Sonny learns what it means to care for someone other than himself.
This was an early glimpse of semi-serious Sandler. Released in 1999, Big Daddy was a box office success, becoming one of the SNL alum’s highest-grossing comedies at the time. While critics were divided, audiences embraced the film’s blend of absurd humor and unexpected tenderness. The contrast between immature antics and emotional moments gave it a lasting place in the dad-comedy subgenre.
Its influence lives on in Sandler’s catalog, marking a turning point where he balanced goofball charm with genuine emotional arcs. For Father’s Day, it’s an offbeat but sincere reminder that fatherhood, biological or otherwise, can come from the most unlikely beginnings.
Oh, and if you see it – yes. That is Jon Stewart.
Stream Big Daddy on Netflix here.
Stream Big Daddy on Fubo here.
Father of the Bride (1991)
George Banks is a loving father who spirals into comic panic when his daughter announces her engagement. Played with neurotic charm by Steve Martin, George struggles with losing his little girl while battling an over-the-top wedding planner, a depleted bank account, and his own growing irrelevance in her adult life. It’s classic the classic Steve Martin, with his stiff upper lip, dealing with a crazy cast of characters.
This 1991 remake of the 1950 original was a huge hit, both commercially and critically. Martin’s performance anchored the emotional core, while Diane Keaton and Martin Short provided memorable support. The film resonated with parents everywhere for capturing the bittersweet moment when kids grow up and move on.
It’s become a Father’s Day favorite for its blend of humor, heart, and family chaos. With themes of letting go and learning to embrace new family roles, Father of the Bride offers comfort and laughs for any dad who’s ever struggled to stay calm through a matrimonial milestone.
Stream Father of the Bride on Disney+ here.
Stream Father of the Bride on DIRECTV here.
Stream Father of the Bride on TBS here.
Stream Father of the Bride on TrueTV here.
Fatherhood (2021)
Based on a true story, Fatherhood stars Kevin Hart as Matt, a newly widowed dad navigating life with his infant daughter after the sudden death of his wife. The film follows Matt’s journey from grief to growth as he learns how to be both mother and father to his child, often stumbling but never losing his stride.
This Netflix original surprised many viewers with its emotional depth. Known for his comedic roles, Hart brought a vulnerable and restrained performance that earned praise for its authenticity. Critics commended the film for depicting single fatherhood with warmth and realism, without leaning too heavily on sentimentality.
As a modern Father’s Day pick, it’s an earnest portrayal of resilience and unconditional love. Fatherhood challenges outdated ideas of masculinity, showing that strength often lies in tenderness, sacrifice, and staying present for those who need you.
Stream Fatherhood on Netflix here.
Stream Fatherhood on Fubo here.
Daddy’s Home (2015)
Mild-mannered radio executive Brad, played by Will Ferrell, is thrilled to finally step into the role of stepdad for his wife’s two kids—until their tough-guy biological father, Dusty (Mark Wahlberg), roars back into the picture. What follows is a comedic battle of parenting styles, as the two men compete for the kids’ affection in increasingly ridiculous ways, from dance-offs to dueling bedtime routines.
Released in 2015, Daddy’s Home brought together Ferrell and Wahlberg for a goofy, family-friendly comedy that capitalized on their contrasting personas. The film was a box office success, grossing over $240 million worldwide despite mixed critical reviews. Audiences embraced the slapstick mayhem and the underlying message about blended families and second chances.
The movie struck a cultural chord by taking a modern look at fatherhood in nontraditional households. While it plays fast and loose with over-the-top antics, its heart lies in showing that being a “real dad” is less about biology and more about being there—even if you’re terrible at riding a motorcycle through the house.
Stream Daddy’s Home on Prime Video here.
Stream Daddy’s Home on MGM+ here.
Stream Daddy’s Home on DIRECTV here.
Stream Daddy’s Home on Roku Channel here.
There’s also a 2017 sequel, Daddy’s Home 2, featuring holiday chaos and the return of the dads’ own dads.
Stream Daddy’s Home 2 on Paramount+ here.
Stream Daddy’s Home 2 on Roku Channel here.
Three Men and a Baby (1987)
Three carefree bachelors – Peter (Tom Selleck), Michael (Steve Guttenberg), and Jack (Ted Danson) – are living the dream in their Manhattan apartment until a mysterious baby shows up on their doorstep. With Jack away, Peter and Michael are left to figure out diapers, bottles, and sleepless nights, leading to a series of comedic disasters and unexpected bonding. As they fumble their way through parenthood, the men discover that their lives—and hearts—may never be the same.
Directed by Leonard Nimoy, Three Men and a Baby became the highest-grossing film of 1987 in North America. Critics praised its chemistry-driven cast and lighthearted tone, while audiences connected with its blend of humor and sentimentality. The image of three men trying to soothe a crying baby became an iconic moment in ‘80s pop culture, solidifying the film’s legacy as a feel-good comedy with heart.
This movie not only showcased the ever-changing role of men as caregivers, but also gave me nightmares as a kid. The scene where Ted Dansen’s mother carries the baby for the first time, there’s a ghost in the window. OK, it wasn’t a ghost, but in the pre-internet era, everyone thought it was. Now we know better. Go watch it.
Stream Three Men and a Baby on Disney+ here.
The 1990 sequel, Three Men and a Little Lady, is also available to stream.
Stream Three Men and a Little Lady on Disney+ here.