Movies to Watch for Father’s Day

CEBU, Philippines — As Father’s Day approaches, many of us start planning activities to share with our families – from dining out, to vacations, or simply spending quality time at home. After enjoying a day out, these movies will be perfect to complete the celebration:

Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2019)

He may not be as perfect as other fathers, but for Yesha, he’s her superhero, a knight in shining armor. However, circumstances turn him into a villain in the eyes of others. In the household, he is the father that everyone else dislikes but who is special to a child’s heart. From Viva Films’ Philippine adaptation of the Korean hit “Miracle in Cell No. 7”, he is Joselito Gopez, a mentally ill father wrongly accused of murder. Yesha is determined to prove her father’s innocence years after he was wrongfully charged with a crime.

Seven Sundays

He is the best provider for the family, ensuring his children are good and stable. But as his offspring settle down with their own families, they seldom have quality time together, and he is left alone. He is the father who seeks love and communication with his children, even if only for a short period of time. Played by the late Ronaldo Valdez in the Star Cinema drama “Seven Sundays,” the film’s patriarch announces that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. The siblings reunite after their father’s announcement and spend time together every Sunday, which helps them understand each other’s struggles. This film highlights the importance of family and how the love and support of loved ones can help us overcome even the toughest challenges.

Cargo (2017)

He will do everything to protect his daughter, Rosie, especially in the toughest times. Andy (Martin Freeman) from “Cargo” is the father in the household who will ensure your safety regardless of the circumstances, and even if he has to suffer later. Amid a zombie outbreak, Andy seeks to find a safe haven for his baby daughter, showcasing his unconditional commitment as a parent.

Doll House (2022)

He is new to fatherhood, once a slave to his vices, with no stable income, until he is left alone. Baron Geisler’s Rustin neglects his responsibilities, complacent that his family will be there forever, until the realization hits him when he is left with no one. This prompts him to change for the better. Rustin attempts to reconnect with his daughter abroad, becoming her babysitter without her knowing he is her father. This Netflix drama emphasizes the journey of redemption and the desire to be a better parent.

Family of Two (A Mother and Son Story)

Fulfilling two roles, she is both mother and father to her only son Mateo (Alden Richards). Here, Sharon Cuneta portrays supermom and dad Maricar. An all-out provider, Maricar is a widowed mother who dedicates herself to raising her son, but he’s moving to Singapore for his career and girlfriend. Mateo plans to find a good man who can look after his mother while he’s gone. This film showcases the strength and dedication of a single parent, fulfilling both roles out of love.

In each household, we have different versions of fathers. Some families have fortunate fathers, while others have dads who may not be as lucky but still do everything for their family’s betterment. In celebrating Father’s Day, let’s remember that fathers aren’t perfect, but they are always trying. Celebrating the occasion with meaningful quality time shows our dads that they are valued and loved, reinforcing the strong bonds that hold families together.