This week’s Friday Flicks is, well it’s not on Friday, and that’s because it’s Father’s Day Flicks! Each of these films is about a father in one way or another, with a range of stories and family structures. Whether you’re watching this movie with your dad or just to think about and celebrate him, all of these selections are excellent Father’s Day films.
For this special edition Father’s Day Flicks, we recommend you select a strain that gives a high reminiscent of the weed your dad smoked ‘back in the day’. While CBD wasn’t much of a thing back then, a strain with a 2:1 or 1:1 CBD THC ratio is ideal for a chill, relaxed high that won’t make your dad feel like he’s flying into space. Some good choices would be Mango Haze by Color Cannabis (THC 5.5mg, CBD 3.1 mg), DM2 by Namaste (THC 4-8%, CBD 9-13%), or Balance by Solei (THC 5.85% – 7.39%, CBD 9.28% – 10.55%).
Harakiri (1962) by Director Masaki Kobayashi
All I can tell you about this movie is that it’s about an aging samurai who asks to commit ritual suicide. It’s an incredible film, earning a rare 100% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 97% audience score. Even if you’re not a fan of subtitles, this film is a must-watch. The storytelling, performance by Hanshiro Tsugumo, script, cinematography, and direction are exceptional. Although I can’t tell you much about the plot without spoiling the film, you’re going to have to take my word and watch it.
A River Runs Through It (1992) by Director Robert Redford
Nothing says Father’s Day like a movie about fly fishing. This movie follows the story of two brothers, Paul (Brad Pitt) and Norman (Craig Sheffer), sons of a minister in rural Montana. The direction by Redford takes you on a magical journey through the idyllic American countryside making even the simple act of fly fishing feel like a religious experience. This movie is beautiful, well-crafted, and incredibly well-acted. In fact, it’s probably my favourite Brad Pitt performance.
Big Fish (2003) by Director Tim Burton
A sickly father (Edward) recounts his elaborate life story, and we get to come along for the ride. A handsome young Ewan McGregor gives a stunning performance as Edward in his youth; a confident, ambitious, starry-eyed romantic whose life is a fairytale-like adventure. Flash forward, William (Billy Crudup) and his father Edward (Albert Finney) don’t have the best relationship. William doesn’t believe his father’s stories and he’s frustrated with not knowing the truth of his life. The movie follows young Edward through his life as he tells it and William’s journey to discovering the truth. Tim Burton’s direction gives this film the magic and surrealism it needs to bring the stories to life and leave you wondering, are they true? Your relaxing CBD/THC high will only enhance the experience.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) by Director Gabriele Muccino
This is a beautiful and heartfelt story of a single father (played by Will Smith) who struggles to provide for his son. I’ll warn you now, you will cry. It’s a sad commentary on poverty in America and a challenge to the statement “money can’t buy happiness”. However, the movie itself would be nothing too special without the heart-wrenching performance by Smith, whose sincerity was likely amplified by the fact that his son was played by his real-life son Jaden Smith. This story of a father’s love is the perfect Father’s Day Film.
Taken (2008) by Director Pierre Morel
Okay, this movie obviously doesn’t live up to the standard of the previously mentioned films, but how do you not include it in a Father’s Day movie blog? And while critics didn’t love this film, giving it a lowly 59% on rotten tomatoes, the audience awarded it a staggering 85% and deemed it an instant classic. Bryan Mills, played by Liam Neeson, goes on a rage-fuelled rescue mission/rampage to find his kidnapped daughter. Neeson’s performance is iconic, beginning with the famous “particular set of skills” speech and following through a fantastical sequence of violence and badassery. Feel free to get as ripped as you desire for this flick, you’ve got all the information you need already.
We hope you enjoyed our selection! Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram if any of our Father’s Day Flicks made it into your movie night, and stay tuned for more recommendations every other Friday on our blog 😊
