Dad's Genre Lists

25 Ladies Night Selections

This list is for the women in my life. You're strong. You're vulnerable. You don't take any crap.

Our world depends on you.

There are many great actors and performances below.

However, some: Lawrence, Roberts, Streep, Fields, Theron, Foster, Weaver, McDormand, Winslet,

These individuals have been steadfast in representing women in film.

They're trailblazers. They exude leadership and determination. They demand respect.

They set an example. 

1. Silence of the Lambs
2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
3. A Trip to Bountiful
4. Fargo
5. Alien/Aliens
6. The Miracle Worker
7. As Good As It Gets
8. Chocolat
9. Kill Bill Vol. 1/Vol. 2
10. Wild
11. Gone With the Wind
12. Mad Max: Fury Road
13. Moonstruck
14. Places in the Heart
15. Thelma and Louise
16. Bridesmaids
17. The Color Purple
18. Erin Brockovich
19. Fried Green Tomatoes
20. Waitress

Starring: Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Dabney Coleman, Elizabeth Wilson, Sterling Hayden, Henry Jones, Marian Mercer

"Well, I say we hire a couple of wranglers to go upstairs and beat the sh*t out of him." - Doralee Rhodes

Why watch this? This great comedy helped shed a lot of light on prevalent corporate misogyny.

Dad's Review: It's a pleasure to watch three classy female stars putting the screws to their over-confident, snobby and perverted boss. This is a very well-done comedy with a strong supporting cast. Dabney Coleman plays the perfect male chauvinist. Tomlin and Fonda are wonderful, but I really love Dolly Parton - we all knew she could sing, but here she really proves she is a fine actress as well.

Starring: Jodie Foster, Kelly McGillis, Bernie Coulson, Leo Rossi, Ann Hearn, Carmen Argenziano, Steve Antin, Tom O'Brien, Woody Brown

"What the hell are you talking about? You saw me at the hospital, what you think I asked for that? Is that what you think? If that's what you think then you get the f*** out of my house!" - Sarah Tobias

Why watch this? Jodie Foster delivers quite a performance in this superb film

Dad's Review: This intense courtroom drama takes on the subject of rape. A young girl is hanging out at a bar having a good time, drinking a lot, and suggestively dancing. In a back pool room, four guys rape her. Nobody steps in to stop it. The trial focuses on her reputation and whether or not she was "asking for it". There are great performances by Foster and McGillis.

Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn, Robert Morley, Peter Bull, Theodore Bikel, Walter Gotell, Peter Stanwick

"I never dreamed that any mere physical experience could be so stimulating!" – Rose Sayer

Why watch this? A wonderful adventure film from the 50's, and watch out for the leeches.

Dad's Review: I've always been a lover of unlikely romances. Here we have the uptight, religious spinster, Rose, and the rough, solitary chug boat captain, Charlie. Thrown together by circumstances beyond their control, they are forced to brave a mighty jungle river full of hippo's, maddening flies and raging rapids. But as their love develops, they become an unstoppable force as they implement Rose's plan to sink the German gunboat, Louisa! Bogey is great, but Kate Hepburn steals the show as the strongest woman you'll ever meet!

Starring: Ellen Burstyn, Alfred Lutter, Kris Kristofferson, Harvey Keitel, Diane Ladd, Vic Tayback, Jodie Foster, Billy Bush

"The first thing you got to do is figure out what it is you want. And once you figure it out, you just jump in there with both feet and let the devil take the hindmost!" - Flo

Why watch this? There is strength is simply moving on, no matter how hard it goes.

Dad's Review: My Mom was everything to me when she found herself 47 with a young boy to raise. We set out from her home (Abilene) and moved to El Paso, ten hours and a desert away. This movies sings to that. She had to start over and do a job that she never did before. In this story Alice does just that when she takes on a job she feels is beneath her, but she has to feed her young son. This wonderful film is like a clip from my childhood.

Starring: Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, Veronica Cartwright, Harry Dean Stanton, John Hurt, Ian Holm, Yaphet Kotto

"Listen to me. If we break quarantine, we could all die." - Ripley

Why watch this? Up to this film, women were rarely portrayed heroic. Alien changed that.

Dad's Review: Two great things came to play in this film. One was director Ridley Scott, who had the guts and foresight to make an action film with a female hero. The second was casting Sigourney Weaver as said hero, Ripley. Yes the special effects are ground-breaking, but it's Weaver who shines. Her strength and leadership under pressure gives this action movie a whole new perspective. It also opened a ton of closed Hollywood doors for women. 

Starring: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, Carrie Henn, Lance Henricksen, Bill Baxton, Jenette Goldstein

"Get away from her, you bitch!" - Ripley

Why watch this? Let's take Alien, add more creatures... and space marines! Sign me up.

Dad's Review: Sequels are often biggered, more effects, more stars, more, more, more. This has that, but it knew a key to success was to center the story on Ripley, the sole survivor of Alien. Amid the action and chaos, Ripley anchors us to humanity. In fact, her motherly instincts kick in when a young girl, Newt, is found alive. Like Ripley, she is a survivor. The amazing Weaver, as we'd expect, dominates the film - and that is a good thing!

Starring: Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear, Cuba Gooding Jr., Skeet Ulrich, Shirley Knight, Yeardley Smith, Lupe Ontiveros, Jill the Dog

"When you first entered the restaurant, I thought you were handsome... and then, of course, you spoke." - Carol

Why watch this? The Oscar-winning performance by Helen Hunt.

Dad's Review: It took some chops to go heels with Jack Nicholson's Oscar-winning performance, but Helen Hunt was more than up to the challenge. Her patience and unyielding honesty work well to counter Jack's anal, rude, even neurotic, behavior. As the film progresses, we see a quiet, unassuming waitress bloom. She finally finds her strength and sense of self. You will cheer for her. It's beautiful to watch.

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron, Kathy Bates, Jae Head, Lily Collins, Ray McKinnon, Kim Dickens

"Look, here's the deal, I don't need y'all to approve my choices alright, but I do ask that you respect them. You have no idea what this boy has been through and if this becomes some running diatribe, I can find overpriced salad a lot closer to home." – Leigh Ann Touhy

Why watch this? Bullock somehow manages to make an attractive rich football Mom likeable.

Dad's Review: This is the true (well sorta) tale of Baltimore Ravens OT Michael Oher, as his adoptive family, led by feisty mom, Leigh Ann Tuohy. I'll admit this is a feel-good story. The film has been criticized for racial issues centered on charity being a vehicle of whiteness to swoop in an rescue black individuals from urban poverty. Regardless, Bullock's performance was universally praised. I really like young actor Quinton Aaron.

Starring: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Chris O'Dowd, Ellie Kemper, Jill Clayburgh, Wendy McLendon

"This is such a stone-cold pack of weirdoes, and I am so proud!" - Lillian

Why watch this? The bridal shop scene after spicy Mexican food. McCarthy kills me!

Dad's Review: Every time I watch this, I love it more. It’s so enjoyable to watch these actor playing off one another. Scene after scene plays out all the classic tropes pertaining to weddings. Only it is from the female perspective. Wiig is such a comedic force, and McCarthy devours every scene she's in. This dynamic duo are the funniest two humans on the planet.

Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Jude Law, Annette Bening, Djimon Hounsou, Lee Pace, Lashana Lynch, Gemma Chan, Clark Gregg

"I'm not gonna fight your war. I'm gonna end it." – Carol Danvers

Why watch this? This is a superb Superhero origin story packed with lots of girl power!

Dad's Review: Carol Danvers thinks she is a Kree, a race of galactic heroes who protect those being attacked by the shape-shifting Skrulls. She even bleeds blue, literally. But she also has recurring memories that seem to be linked to a planet called C-53. She travels there begins to unravel who she really is. Larson excels as a strong, determined and very tough superhero with powers equal to DC's Superman. She will play a critical role in the Marvel films to come. Kudos also to Samuel L. Jackson as a much younger version of Nick Fury.

Starring: Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench, Alfred Molina, Lena Olin, Johnny Depp, Carrie-Anne Moss, Peter Stormare, John Wood

"And these are for your husband. Unrefined cacao nips from Guatemala, to awaken the passions." - Vianne

Why watch this? A wonderful confectionary treat about moral repression and gentle rebellion.

Dad's Review: This movie barely dropped out of the Top50. Juliette Binoche is such a special actress. Here she plays an angel who comes to town and starts fixing things, and people, who are broken - the battered wife, the strained mother-daughter relationship, the overtly stern mayor. Like a fine chocolatier, she finds the right flavors, mixes in a little spice and viola, people begin to see things in a new light.

Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, Oprah Winfrey, Adolph Caesar, Margaret Avery, Rae Dawn Chong

"A girl child ain't safe in a family of mens, but I ain't never thought I'd have to fight in my own house! I loves Harpo, God knows I do. But I'll kill him dead 'fo I let him beat me." - Sofia

Why watch this? This shows us all that courage can sometimes be silent. Strength is enduring.

Dad's Review: This film is a journey wrought with pain, cruelty and oppression. We follow timid little Celie, a meek black woman in the South, basically sold to a tyrannical husband. She endures a horrible life. She sees black women around her, and how they cope. Some find happiness, but most are beaten into submission. This inspiring film gave us the amazing Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover and the indomitable Oprah Winfrey. Spielberg, again, hits one out of the park. 

Starring: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook, Dianne Wiest, John Mahoney, Allison Pill, Brittany Robertson

“You are a murderer of love!” Cara Burns

Why watch this? It's a low-key, yet sophisticated, rom-com. I love when Dan signs "Let My Love Open The Door".

Dad's Review: It starts out as a typical Rom-Com, then becomes so much more. There's a damaged relationship between a man and his four young daughters. A new woman he accidentally stumbles upon and an attraction that cannot be denied. Awkward moments galore. All mixed in with a wonderful family gathering. This is such a perfect pairing between Carell and Binoche, two of my favorite actors who never, and I mean never, disappoint.

Starring: Rosanna Arquette, Madonna, Aidan Quinn, Robert Joy, Mark Blum, Laurie Metcalf, Anna Levine, Will Patton

"Yeah, well, fortunately, for everybody, I'm here and I'm thinking." - Susan

Why watch this? A great story of mistaken identity, and misplaced adoration.

Dad's Review: I love Madonna. She is quite an American success story. She busted her tail to make it. Sure, she's pop star diva, but she is also a very good actress. She also has never strayed away from her sexuality. She is who she is, and I like that. This light, fun film teams her with Rosanna Arquette, who plays a girl who has lost her memory. Though they rarely share the screen, they admire each other from a distance. 

Starring: Julia Roberts, James Franco, Richard Jenkins, Viola Davis, Billy Crudup, Javier Bardem, I. Gusti Ayu Puspawati

"Maybe my life hasn't been so chaotic. It's just the world that is and the only real trap is getting attached to any of it. Ruin is a gift. Ruin is the road to transformation" - Liz

Why watch this? Life takes it out of you, sucks your passion. Elizabeth wants it back.

Dad's Review: A woman, who had it all, wants to reconnect with her life's meaning. She heads on a self-discovery trip to three places: Italy, Indian and Bali. She finds to appreciate food in Italy, prayer in India, and finally, well, you'll need to watch the film for the reward she receives in Bali. Roberts nails it.

Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Sam Claflin, Helena Bonham Carter, Louis Partridge, Burn Gorman, Adeel Akhtar

"Sometimes you must dangle your feet in the water in order to attract the sharks." - Sherlock Holmes

Why watch this? This is the perfect film for young girls. It's very empowering.

Dad's Review: Who knew that Sherlock Holmes, the famed, elementary detective had a little sister? Well, he does, and she's as intelligent, and, dare I say, more determined and precocious. Millie Brown, whose previous roles have been serious and stolid, lights up the screen with wit, curiosity and strength. She's clearly having a good time, jaunting around England searching for her missing mother. 

Starring: Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart, Dawn Didawick, Conchata Ferrell, Marg Helgenberger, Tracey Walter, Peter Coyote

"Ya know why everyone thinks that all lawyers are backstabbing, bloodsucking scumbags? 'Cause they are!" - Erin Brockovich

Why watch this? This is Julia Roberts at the peak of her career. She is a force.

Dad's Review: This film serves notice that women carry the heavier load. They have to work harder, just to get on level footing. Roberts plays a legal researcher who figures out that a local business is poisoning the water, its employees and the community around them. She makes them pay, and its a wonderful thing to see. This film is also based on a true story! 

Starring: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, Mark Ruffalo, Elijah Wood, Tom Wilkinson

"Joel, I'm not a concept. Too many guys think I'm a concept or I complete them or I'm going to make them alive, but I'm just a fucked up girl who is looking for my own peace of mind." - Clementine

Why watch this? This creative romance movie will keep you guessing.

Dad's Review: After a painful breakup, impulsive Clementine undergoes a procedure to erase all memories of her former boyfriend Joel. When Joel discovers what Clementine has done, he undergoes the same procedure. Carey is incredible as he steps away from usual manic tendancies to play a subdued, depressed role. However, Winslet chews up every scene as the illogical, impulsive Clementine. 

Starring: Frances McDormand, William H. Macy, Steve Buscemi, Harve Presnell, Peter Stormare

"And these are for your husband. Unrefined cacao nips from Guatemala, to awaken the passions." - Vianne

Why watch this? Marge Gunderson, as brought to life by the incredible Frances McDormand.

Dad's Review: The film is classified as a "dark comedy crime drama", but I disagree. It is ALL crime drama. The only thing that's funny, and I mean it IS funny, is how these North Westerners act and talk.  The film's core is officer Gunderson. Her heart, matter-of-fact courage, and unwavering kindness that wins the day in the film's cold, bleak setting.

Starring: Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Mary Stuart Masterson, Mary-Louise Parker, Cicely Tyson, Chris O'Donnell, Stan Shaw

"A heart can be broken, but it will keep beating just the same." - Allison

Why watch this? There is a richness to this film. Watch and take it in.

Dad's Review: In 1991, this film was such a breath of freshness in a film world dominated with masculinity, and I mean toxic masculinity. This story spans two generations of women fighting the battles common those days in a man's world, especially in the South. The story is courageous, inspiring, and a must see for any lady, young or old. I also challenge men to watch it, too. And after your shame passes, try better to remember that there is no difference  regarding sex, and race, in this United States. Men - do better. Women - you rock it.

Starring: Michael Nyqvist, Noomi Rapace, Ingvar Hirdwall, Björn Granath, Lena Endre, Ewa Fröling, Sven-Bertil Taube

"Shut up about the victimization! He almost killed you. He raped and murdered and he enjoyed it. He had the same chances as us to choose what he wanted to be. He was no victim." – Lisbeth Salander

Why watch this? This is one intense film - and Noomi Rapace - damn!

Dad's Review: This is the best of the original Swedish film trilogy. During a murder investigation, a journalist enlist the help of a freelance hacker, Lisbeth Salander. Salander herself is compelling, sporting black leather, numerous body tattoos, and a black Mohawk. Noomi Rapace absolutely kills the part of Lisbeth, so much so that her character is more interesting than the film's plot itself.

Starring: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Thomas Mitchell, Hattie McDaniel, Ona Munson

"I'm going to live through this and when it's all over, I'll never be hungry again. No, nor any of my folk. If I have to lie, steal, cheat or kill, as God is my witness, I'll never be hungry again.” - Scarlett O’Hara

Why watch this? This is the story of an incredible woman's survival in the war torn South.

Dad's Review: This is the great American epic of the Old South. It follows the life of Scarlett O'Hara, who starts out as a rich, spoiled plantation Southern belle. As the Civil War hits the South, and destroys her home, we follow her painful journey. As I have watched this film through the years, my love and respect for Scarlett, and actress Vivian Leigh who portrays her, has grown immensely. Hattie McDaniel, who plays her servant Mamie is the first African American to win an Academy Award.  

Starring: Sigourney Weaver, Bryan Brown, Julie Harris, John O. Miluwi, Iain Glen, Iain Cuthbertson, Constantin Alexandrov, Waigwa Wachira

"Your hair is color of fire. They think you are a witch." - Sembagare

Why watch this? Dian Fossey's tragic story is compelling, as was her work with the great apes.

Dad's Review: This riveting story is based on the real life of naturalist Dian Fossey, who devoted part of her life to study and protect the giant primates in the Congo. There is amazing footage of the gorillas that shows educate us on the behaviors and family structures of these great apes. When poachers cause too much damage, Fossey does all she can to stop them, which puts her in considerable danger.

Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell

"There are no colored bathrooms in this building, or any building outside the West Campus, which is half a mile away. Did you know that? I have to walk to Timbuktu just to relieve myself! And I can't use one of the handy bikes. Picture that, Mr. Harrison. My uniform, skirt below the knees and my heels. And simple string of pearls. Well, I don't own pearls. Lord knows you don't pay the colored women enough to afford pearls! And I work like a dog day and night, living on coffee from a pot NONE OF YOU WANNA TOUCH! So, excuse me if I have to go to the restroom a few times a day." - Katherine Johnson

Why watch this? A fascinating film about our nation's original "computers".

Dad's Review: The quote above says it all. Watch it HERE on YouTube.

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Helmsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Donald Sutherland, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Julianne Moore

"Stop killing for him! Tonight, turn your weapons to the Capitol! Turn your weapons to Snow!" - Katniss Everdeen

Why watch this? This is an incredible film series featuring the amazing Jennifer Lawrence.

Dad's Review: After the apocalypse, the world's survivors live in "Panem". It's 12 districts are ruled by the Capital. One government controls everything, led by the ruthless President Snow. Annually each district much sacrifice a male and female teenage to fight in the Hunger Games to the death. Katniss takes her sister's place for District 12. This series is her story.

Starring: Annette Benning, Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo, Mia Wasikowska, Josh Hutcherson, Yaya DaCosta, Eddie Hassell

"You stop seeing the other person. You just see weird projections of your own junk. Instead of talking to each other, you go off the rails and act grubby and make stupid choices, which is what I did." – Jules Allgood

Why watch this? A lesbian couple has to deal with reconnecting with their sperm donor.

Dad's Review: This film is so real. When the biological father of two lesbian parents resurfaces, their family starts to unravel a bit. It gets really complicated quickly. These two woman are a wonder to behold, as I'd suspect from veteran actors Benning and Moore. 

Starring: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah, David Carradine, Julie Dreyfus, Chiaki Kuriyama, Michael Parks

"I can tell you, with no ego, this is my finest sword. If, on your journey, should you encounter God, God will be cut.” – Hattori Hanzo

Why watch this? Uma Thurman is a tour de force!

Dad's Review: I was not a huge Tarantino fan until this. Yes, it romanticizes murderous assassins. It is violent. Too many of the characters are beautiful. Yet, it works. This is definitely a woman's story filled with strong ladies, all just as deadly as their male counterparts. The fight scenes are choreographed so perfectly. The final battle at the restaurant is worth the price of admission!  I must confess, have a little bit of a crush on bad girl GoGo Yubari.

Starring: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Michael Madsen, Daryl Hannah, David Carradine, Gordon Liu, Michael Parks

"That woman deserves her revenge, and we deserve to die… But then again, so does she. So I guess we'll just see… won't we?" – Budd

Why watch this? The bride's showdown with Elle in Budd's double-wide.

Dad's Review: The conclusion to this tale of bloody revenge does keep pace with Part I. We witness the Bride's tough training under the master, Pai Mai. We experience what it's like to be buried alive. Bill's motivations are explained. I really love the finale. Instead of a big, elaborate showdown, it is an intimate, civil discussion between two lovers looking out for their child. It's low-key, and that makes it all the more rewarding.

Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts, Lucas Hedges, Timothée Chalamet, Beanie Feldstein, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Lois Smith

"I hate California, I want to go to the east coast. I want to go where culture is like, New York, or Connecticut or New Hampshire." - Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson

Why watch this? This is a superb diary of the school's nerdy, feisty free spirit.

Dad's Review: It's certainly a coming of age film as Christine (she renamed herself "Lady Bird) embraces her senior year at Sacramento Catholic high. There are multiple complexities between the teen and her single mother. The film is really about Lady Bird transforming, and finding her voice in the midst of suppressive adults and annoying students.

Starring: Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Lori Petty, Madonna, Rosie O’Donnell, Megan Cavanagh, Tracy Reiner, Bitty Schram, Anne Ramsay

"Yeah. It is only a game, Jimmy. It's only a game, and, and, I don't need this." - Dottie

Why watch this? The complicated sister relationship between Davis and Petty - priceless!

Dad's Review: I crave films about historical events that most folks never hear of. This sports movie has a lot of heart. That comes from Director Penny Marshall. She received a lot of valid praise for this effort. I really enjoyed that this is a baseball film featuring female leads. Geena Davis and Lori Petty are splendid throughout. Tom Hanks, of course, is great as the team's drunken, angry and disenfranchised manager.

Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair, Matthew Davis, Victor Garber, Jennifer Coolidge

"There's nothing I love better than a dumb blonde with Daddy's plastic." - Boutique Saleswoman

Why watch this? Reese proves you can be a blonde that is simultaneously dingy and intelligent.

Dad's Review: This film is where Reese Witherspoon gained real "cred" with audiences. It's 100% her film - she carries it, like totally. The very sorority and fashion-minded Elle is dumped by her Harvard-bound boyfriend because, well, she's not Harvardy-enough. This fuels her determination to get into that school and win him back. I won't give away the plot, it's wonderful Rom-Com fare, and Elle's energetic tactics are a beauty to watch.

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman, Choi Min-sik, Amr Waked, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Pilou Asbaek, Analeigh Tipton

"I feel everything. Space, the air, the vibrations, the people, I can feel the gravity, I can feel the rotation of the Earth, the heat leaving my body, the blood in my veins. I can feel my brain. The deepest parts of my memory." – Lucy

Why watch this? This is excellent science fiction to get fully engrossed in.

Dad's Review: When Lucy is injected with a too much of a psychedelic drug, she acquires new psycho-kinetic powers. As she changes, she becomes both hyper-inquisitive, and physically super-heroish, dispatching thugs like Black Widow. The ending is really mind-blowing, as she takes a final step to merge with massive super-computers and breach the space-time continuum! Johansson delivers an amazing performance.

Starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Riley Keough

"If I'm gonna die, I'm gonna die historic on the Fury Road!" - Nux

Why watch this? I never saw this greatness coming. But it is GREAT!

Dad's Review: Instant classic. As a huge fan of the 80’s Mad Max films, I really thought the franchise was over, and I was OK with that. Then comes this tour de force again from the talents of George Miller. It blows you away with each action sequence. Tom Hardy amply filled Mr. Gibson’s shoes, but it is Charlize Theron who steals the show as Furiosa. She is one bad-ass chick. It’s visually stunning. Let’s hope this is the first in another trilogy.

Starring: Kate Winslet, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart, Angourie Rice, David Denman, Neal Huff, Guy Pierce, Cailee Spaeny, John Douglas Thompson, Joe Tippett, Evan Peters

"My life's a shit show, Zabel. I'm about to lose custody of my grandson, and I'm still workin' through unresolved issues from the son who killed himself. And, uh, my ex-husband basically lives in my backyard, so, you're right, I don't know what you want, but I'm sure it's not that." - Mare

Why watch this? Winslet captivates as the complicated small town detective, Mare Sheehan.

Dad's Review: This HBO limited series is a master-class on efficiency. No moment is wasted. A Pennsylvania small town detective, with a shit-ton of personal issues of her own, has to solve the murder of a teenager at a party. There are a lot of truly great things about Mare of Easttown, but the most incredible is Winslet's brutally honest performance. 

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman, Jay Baruchel, Mike Colter, Lucia Rijker, Brian F. O'Byrne, Anthony Mackie

"Problem is, this the only thing I ever felt good doing. If I'm too old for this, then I got nothing. That enough truth to suit you?" - Maggie Fitzgerald

Why watch this? This boxing film gives Rocky a run for its money. It is that good.

Dad's Review: Such a great film. Directed by Eastwood. Narrated by Morgan Freeman. Starring them both, along with the amazing Hilary Swank; and it’s an inspirational story about women's boxing! This is just so easy to watch and enjoy. I really love how our lady boxer finally wins over her grumpy trainer. Then - that ending. Wow. Didn’t see that coming.

Starring: Anne Bancroft, Patty Duke, Victor Joy, Inga Swenson, Andrew Prine, Kathleen Comegys, John Bliss

"The rooms a wreck but she folded her napkin!" - Ann Sullivan

Why watch this? The clash of two indomitable wills is more than worth the price of admission

Dad's Review: This is an unforgettable and painful journey through the incredible education of Helen Keller, who lost her hearing and sight in infancy. Her family hires Ann Sullivan to teach her. Ann instantly surmises that the family has done nothing but spoil the child. This film is transformative. At its very least, it will change how you deal with a spoiled child. At it greatest, will enjoy two unforgettable female performances by Duke and Bancroft (they both won Academy Awards).

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Michael Caine, Benjamin Bratt, Candice Bergen, Wiliam Shatner, Ernie Hudson, Heather Burns

"I haven't seen a walk like that since "Jurassic Park"!" – Victor Melling

Why watch this? Bullock was just a pretty face. Here is really shows her comedic abilities.

Dad's Review: Gracie Hart is a rude, uncouth, tom-boyish special agent. In order to uncover a ring of Russian mobsters, she's assigned to enter the Miss United States pageant as Miss New Jersey. After a lot of work, a new hair style, and make-up, she's able to pull the whole charade off without too much embarrassment to her fashion coach, Mr. Melling. This comedy, set in the world of a beauty pageant really holds together well, thanks to a good script and Bullock's cute, honest performance.

Starring: Charlize Theron, Christina Ricci, Bruce Dern, Lee Tergesen, Annie Corley, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Marco St. John, Marc Macaulay

"So I made a deal. I said God I gotta spend this 5 bucks but when it's gone so am I so, if you got something for me in this life you better bring it on, and there she was." – Aileen Wuornos

Why watch this? Charlize Theron proves that she is not just another pretty Hollywood face.

Dad's Review: In one of filmdom's great transformations, Charlize Theron literally becomes Aileen Wuornos, the rough, twisted prostitute who murdered several of her male clients in the late '80s. This film is painful to watch as her environment, and her past, always haunt her and prevent any attempt she makes to get straight. Things eventually spiral downward. This film won numerous awards including Theron's Oscar for Best Actress.

Starring: Cher, Nicolas Cage, Vincent Gardenia, Olympia Dukakis, Danny Aiello, Julie Bovasso, John Mahoney

"When you love them they drive you crazy because they know they can" - Rose

Why watch this? The unlikeliest of romances for New York City Italians.

Dad's Review: Cher, in my book, was not much of an actress. With this quirky romance, she more than won me over. There is so much in this film: what New York Italian families are like, the painfulness of complicated love and how it can mow you over. Olivia Dukakis’s Academy Awarding winning performance is a real treat, too. I guess you can calls this an Italian fairy tale about amore!

Starring: Ming-Na Wen, Eddie Murphy, BD Wong, Miguel Ferrer, June Foray, James Hong, Pat Morita, George Takei

"Just because I look like a man doesn't mean I have to smell like one." - Mulan

Why watch this? This may be my favorite of all of Disney's female lead roles.

Dad's Review: This film was one of my daughter's favorites, and it is easy to see why. Mulan is a maiden, suppressed and ignored in the man's world that was middle century China. She disguises herself as a man to take her father's place when he is called to fight against the invading Huns. She more than proves herself in battle with honor and courage. Along the way she gets help from a magical dragon (voiced by Eddie Murphy). This is a wonderful film for girls of all ages, and it shows that is OK for women to be strong.

Starring: Annabeth Gish, Julia Roberts, Lili Taylor, Vincent D'Onofrio, William R. Moses, Adam Storke, Conchata Ferrell, Matt Damon

"What the hell do you think Leona really puts in that pizza?" - Jojo

Why watch this? It's sweet and bittersweet, and yes, Ms. Roberts is adorable.

Dad's Review: This film follows the lives and romances of three gals who work at a popular pizza shop in New England. Each girl has very different issues. One is not sure about her upcoming marriage, one is in love with a married man, and one can’t let herself love a guy outside her "class". A perfect date-night film with some real interesting plot lines. This film was Julia Roberts' big break. 

Starring: Sally Field, Ron Leibman, Beau Bridges, Pat Hingle, Barbara Baxley, Gail Strickland, Morgan Paull, John Calvin, Bob Minor

"Forget it! I'm stayin' right where I am. It's gonna take you and the police department and the fire department and the National Guard to get me outta here!" - Norma Rae

Why watch this? Sally Fields makes us all root for her and the cause!

Dad's Review: In a small town textile mill, the working hours and conditions are horrible, especially considering the low wages. Norma Rae takes on the challenging task of swaying the workers to unionize. This puts her at odds with her family, her fiancé, and certainly her mill employers. I can't say enough about Fields - she owns the role!

Starring: Sally Field, Lindsay Crouse, Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, John Malkovich, Danny Glover

"You took a no-account piece of land and a bunch of people that didn't know what they were doin' and you farmed that land better than anybody could - colored or white. You're the one that brought in the first bale of cotton this year. Don't you ever forget that." - Edna Spalding

Why watch this? Because Elsie loved it.

Dad's Review: My mom lived through the Great Depression in Texas. People today have no concept of a hard life. Oscar-winner Sally Field carries the story as a mother forced to take charge of her farm after the death of her husband. Amid all the hardships, a tornado hits the small Texas down. You will stand up and cheer at the courage and determination inside this little lady a she fights to defend her family and land. 

Starring: Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe, Leonardo DiCaprio, Roberts Blossom, Kevin Conway, Lance Henriksen, Pat Hingle

"You stole my life." – Ellen

Why watch this? Sharon Stone is a gun-slinging cowgirl with a mysterious past...

Dad's Review: Sharon Stone is a gunfighter in the Old West. She easily pulls it off. There is a quick-draw contest in the town of Redemption, which is ruled by the ruthless John Herod. Aiding the film’s success are some wonderful performances by Stone, Hackman, and two new stars: a very young Leonard DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. It’s full of Western clichés, but that is half the fun!

Starring: Meryl Streep, Kevin Bacon, David Strathairn, Joseph Mazzello, John C. Reilly, Stephanie Sawyer, Benjamin Bratt, Thomas F. Duffy

"Then go ahead. Don't keep telling me how tough you are, Wade, just show me." - Gail

Why watch this? Meryl impressed me with her portrayal as a bad-ass white water guide.

Dad's Review: When two bank robbers hijack a white water rafting guide, Gail, and her husband and son, the action begins as they work their way down Idaho's Salmon River's raging rapids. Gail has to walk the thin line between angering the kidnappers and keeping her family safe. What awaits them is a nasty stretch of churning water called "The Gauntlet". Streep is strong, capable, and just like a lioness in protective desperation. 

Starring: Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Paul Giamatti, Jason Schwartzman, B. J. Novak, Bradley Whitford, Colin Farrell

"I love my life, I think it's a miracle. And I loved my dad. He was a wonderful man. But rare is the day when I don't think about that eight-year-old boy delivering newspapers in the snow and old Elias Disney with that strap in his fist.” – Walt Disney

Why watch this? Hanks portrayal of Walt Disney. He just steals every scene.

Dad's Review: This wonderful film really caught me by surprise. Hanks and Thompson are simply masterful as Disney and Mary Poppin’s author P. L. Travers. The film follows Disney attempt to woo her to make the now famous cartoon film. There are also poignant flashbacks to Ms. Travers' painful childhood, and the relationship with her alcoholic father.

Starring: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn, Ted Levine, Anthony Heald, Brooke Smith, Diane Baker, Kasi Lemmons, Charles Napier

"You see a lot, doctor. But can you point that high-powered perception at yourself? What about it? Why don't you look at yourself and write down what you see?" - Clarice Starling

Why watch this? Clarice Starling.

Dad's Review: It is very refreshing to pit a competent female against the most heinous of serial murders and condescending men in charge. Agent Starling uses her wits to "play the game", and it's this talent that draws Dr. Hannibal Lecter immediately to her. Jodie Foster elevates the role, playing it strong, but not tough; vulnerable, but not weak. Amazing!

Starring: Meryl Streep, Kurt Russell, Cher, Craig T. Nelson, Diana Scarwid, Fred Ward, Ron Silver, Charles Hallahan, Josef Sommer

"My urine sample container! Somebody put plutonium in my urine sample container!" - Karen Silkwood

Why watch this? Meryl Steep works in a nuclear plant, and she wants the blow the whistle.

Dad's Review: This engrossing true story details Karen Silkwood, an Oklahoma nuclear plant worker who exposed dangerous practices. Of course the plant management wanted to keep her from making her complaints public knowledge. This is a powerful film about one woman's courageous fight to do the right thing.

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver, Anupam Kher, Chris Tucker

"You know, I used to think that you were the best thing that ever happened to me, but now I think that you might maybe be the worst thing. And I'm sorry that I ever met you." - Tiffany

Why watch this? I love it when two screwed-up people find happiness in each other.

Dad's Review: Every recent film with Cooper and Lawrence really helps me realize how damn good these young actors are. This superb anti-rom-com is disturbing, warm, funny and eventually triumphant. De Niro is so good as the obsessive-compulsive Eagles fan whose superstitions rule the household. For everyone whose family is not picture perfect, like mine, you will love this trip down Dysfunction Lane.

Starring: Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, Julia Roberts, Tom Skerritt, Dylan McDermott, Kevin J. O'Connor, Sam Shepard

"I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special." - Shelby Latcherie

Why watch this? Women, and the bond they share, is a beautiful thing to behold.

Dad's Review: I kinda feel unworthy to evaluate a film that's singularly about the "feminine experience", but I'll do my best, because I was the ultimate "momma's boy". Here we have a tight-knit group of friends, who are visited by a heart-breaking tragedy. We endure the heartbreak, the grief, the anger, and eventually the importance of friends to aid in the healing process.

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Robert Patrick, Edward Furlong, Joe Morton, Earl Boen

"It is in your nature to destroy yourselves." The T-800 Terminator

Why watch this? Cameron delivers an incredible sequel using cool effects and a buffed-up Linda Hamilton.

Dad's Review: This sequel is bigger and bolder than the original. They machines send another Terminator, this one more lethal and advanced. The humans send back the Terminator from the original film, only programmed to protect Sarah this time. This has all the elements of the original film, yet it's characters are explored deeper, and it's overall more poignant.

Starring: Debra Winger, Shirley MacLaine, Jack Nicholson, Danny DeVito, Jeff Daniels, John Lithgow

"I'll tell you, Aurora. I don't know what it is about you, but you do bring out the devil in me." - Garrett Breedlove

Why watch this? MacLaine and Nicholson are magic together as they duke it out.

Dad's Review: This was an ideal vehicle for veteran actress Shirley MacLaine, as she portrays a woman confronting middle age. It's not always handled with grace. In fact, there's lots of anger and outward bitterness. She must begrudgingly surrender to the process, and let those around her help in "transition". The cast is stellar, and the film grabbed five Oscars, including Best Picture, Actress (MacLaine) and Supporting Actor (Nicholson).

Starring: Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey Keitel, Michael Madsen, Christopher McDonald, Brad Pitt

"You said you 'n' me was gonna get out of town and for once just really let our hair down. Well, darlin', look out, 'cause my hair is comin' down!" - Thelma

Why watch this? This has Elsie's "Golden Stamp of Approval". Ladies, time to cut loose!

Dad's Review: My mom absolutely loved this flick. When I finally watched it, I could see why. It’s fiercely female, and very personal to her. It follows two women who are tired of "taking it" from men and the system. They are determined to live for possibly the first time in their lives! My Mom was the perfect wife and mother. That got her a broken heart and a lousy divorce.

Starring: Geraldine Page, John Heard, Carlin Glynn, Richard Bradford, Rebecca De Mornay, Kevin Cooney

"You are lucky to be married to the man you love... Awful lucky."- Carrie Watts

Why watch this? Courage is not always on grand display. Mostly it's enduring your life.

Dad's Review: My mother was a strong woman. Like Mrs. Watts in this film, she endured the Great Depression, difficult times, a heart broken by the one you love. Yet she was always pleasant and loved others easily. This Texas story, and Geraldine Page's mannerisms remind me of Mom like no other film out there. 

Starring: Diane Lane, Raoul Bova, Sandra Oh, Lindsay Duncan, Vincent Riotta, Mario Monicelli, Evelina Gori

"I'd like to make an offer on the house. This is what I can pay, minus the work on the place, and a rental car to drive off a cliff when this all turns out to have been a terrible mistake." - Jojo

Why watch this? A woman, post-divorce, burns her old bridges and starts anew.

Dad's Review: This is a lovely film about the pain and depression that occurs after a divorce. It takes a lot for a woman to move on because regardless of what people think, women are always more committed to relationships. This makes their pain deeper. This woman decides to give Italy a spin.

Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Scott Speedman, Michael Sheen, Shane Brolly, Erwin Leder, Bill Nighy, Sophia Myles, Robbie Gee

"...you're in the middle of a war that has been raging for the better part of a thousand years. A blood feud between vampires and lycans." - Selene

Why watch this? The visuals are amazing in this modern telling of a bloody monster feud.

Dad's Review: This highly-stylized film focuses on an ongoing battle, fought unbeknownst to most people, between werewolves and vampires. Selene is a lethal vampiric Death Dealer. She discovers a young man who appears to possess characteristics of both sects. She awakens Viktor for counsel because she does not trust the current leader, Kraven. There is such a cool look and feel to this action flick. It's highly entertaining.

Starring: Joan Allen, Kevin Costner, Erika Christensen, Evan Rachel Wood, Keri Russell, Alicia Witt, Mike Binder

"I love how you worry about how the letter you wrote to the parent that deserted you is too mean, but to the one who's still here in the fight, you have no trouble saying the most vile things." - Terry Wolfmeyer

Why watch this? An unexpected, warm and funny film about two lost souls finding each other.

Dad's Review: When a woman's husband leaves, no goodbye... nothing, she becomes a damaged, angry woman who's depressed behavior is starting to affect her three adult daughters. She finds a potential romance with a retired baseball player who likes to drink as much as she does. But can she ever find peace within herself again?

Starring: Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving, Stephen Rea, Stephen Fry, John Hurt, Tim Pigott-Smith, Roger Allam, Ben Miles

"A building is a symbol, as is the act of destroying it. Symbols are given power by people. Alone, a symbol is meaningless, but with enough people, blowing up a building can change the world." - V

Why watch this? I love this futuristic tale of a vigilante standing up against fascism.

Dad's Review: The future of the world is in turmoil. The world is ruled by fascist governments that round up undesirables and rebels, then execute them. The only one with any success against the system is the mysterious “V”. This film is brutal and unforgiving, as a small group must gain enough momentum to affect revolutionary change. Once again, Natalie Portman is pure cinematic gold.

Starring: Keri Russell, Nathan Fillion, Cheryl Hines, Adrienne Shelly, Eddie Jemison, Jeremy Sisto, Andy Griffith

"Pregnant Miserable Self Pitying Loser Pie... Lumpy oatmeal with fruitcake mashed in. Flambé of course" - Jenna

Why watch this? Keri Russell Is Awesome Pie. Peanut butter, sugar and hot pepper. Yum! 

Dad's Review: This film's central character is a waitress, Jenna, who is searching for meaning and independence after being trapped in an abusive marriage and pregnancy. Wonderful Keri Russell shines as a pie shop owner, working keep it all together. She does so with dignity, charm, and a deep strength. I love the small part played by Andy Griffith, as the old curmudgeon who endears himself to Jenna and her wonderfully creative pies.

Starring: Meg Ryan, Andy García, Lauren Tom, Ellen Burstyn, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Tina Majorino, Mae Whitman

"Nothing happened, Michael. Nothing has to happen for me to have a bad day. That's the thrilling part of all this. It just comes and hits and runs me over like a g**damn freight train." – Alice

Why watch this? It's a superb, yet very painful film about alcoholism.

Dad's Review: This was not the film I thought it would be. It was marketed as a Rom-Com. Why? This is a deeply painful story about a woman, Alice, who is an alcoholic. After a serious incident, she realizes that she has to leave her family and enter rehab. She thrives at rehab and moves back home. Her husband, Michael, has trouble re-adjusting to the new, sober Alice, who is now more vocal, yet still fighting the urge. The performances by Ryan and Garcia are top-notch!

Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Gaby Hoffman, Michiel Huisman, Thomas Sadoski, Keen McRae, W. Earl Brown, Kevin Rankin

"My mother used to say something that drove me nuts, 'There's a sunrise and a sunset every day, and you can choose to be there for it. You can put yourself in the way of beauty." - Cheryl Strayed

Why watch this? The hike is about the journey to find yourself.

Dad's Review: Breath-taking scenery is the backdrop for Cheryl’s journey. She is herself wild, self-destructive, used up, tired. So, to shake her demons, or die trying, she sets off on her quest, woefully unprepared, yet, determined. Witherspoon’s portrays Cheryl is angry, raw and vulnerable. We sense this is her last chance to fix things. Laura Dern gives an awesome performance as Cheryl’s free-spirited, late mom, Bobbie.  Cheryl’s physical journey parallels her mental one. I must admit, perhaps this is a journey I need to take.

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes, Kevin Breznahan, Dale Dickey, Garret Dillahunt, Sheryl Lee, Tate Taylor

"So, I guess come the nut-cutting, blood don’t really mean shit to the big man. Am I understanding that right?" - Ree

Why watch this? Man, life is rough if you're poor and happen to live in the Ozark Mountains.

Dad's Review: Jennifer Lawrence - damn. This girl can act. Like move-over-Meryl acting. Here she stars as a hard-scrabble Ozark teen, Ree Dolly, who is trying to find her missing father. As she starts asking questions, there is resistance from everyone, especially from her hillbilly relatives. These tight-lipped folks, because of nearby meth labs, don't like questions, even from family. Lawrence simply dominates the screen as she fights to keep her family from being evicted. 

Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Danny Huston, David Thewlis, Connie Nielsen, Elena Anaya, Ewen Bremner, Eugene Brave Rock, Saïd Taghmaoui

"I'm going, Mother. I cannot stand by while innocent lives are lost. If no one else will defend the world from Ares, then I must. I have to go." - Diana Prince

Why watch this? This blows the lid off super-heroes and gives us a female role model.

Dad's Review: It embarrassingly took Hollywood this long to get one of their key female super-heroes right. Thank god it was Wonder Woman! This origin story of Diana Prince is a wonderful epic. The scenes in Themyscira are beautiful and poignant. The footage from World War I is powerful. Gal Gadot became an international superstar. Watching this transports me back to my childhood, where my heroes came alive.

Starring: Melanie Griffith, Harrison Ford, Sigourney Weaver, Joan Cusack, Alec Baldwin, Philip Bosco, Nora Dunn, Oliver Platt

"Sometimes I sing and dance around the house in my underwear. Doesn't make me Madonna. Never will." - Cynthia

Why watch this? This is really an inspiring film for ladies who need to believe in themselves.

Dad's Review: For a small stretch of time in the '80's, Melani Griffith made some really nice films. It started with Something Wild (1986), then came this gem. True, it's a Rom-Com, however, it's more about the determination of a young lady to break out her class (she's a secretary), and her sex (Wall Street is a man's world). Her transformation is amazing to watch. She's supported by her best friend Cynthia (Joan Cusack kills it, as usual), and handsome broker, Jack Trainer. 

Back to Genre Lists