Films about abusive dads explore the complex and often harrowing dynamics between fathers and their children, shedding light on the devastating impact of abuse within families. These films delve into the emotional and psychological turmoil experienced by those affected by the actions of abusive fathers.
“The Glass Castle”, 2017
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Based on a memoir, this film follows the story of a young woman reflecting on her tumultuous upbringing with her eccentric and abusive father.
Starring: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson, Naomi Watts, Ella Anderson, Chandler Head, Max Greenfield, Josh Barclay Caras, Charlie Shotwell, Iain Armitage, Sarah Snook;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Glass Castle” on the website imdb.com
“Precious”, 2009
Director: Lee Daniels
This powerful drama portrays the life of a young girl who faces abuse and trauma at the hands of her father, while she strives to overcome her circumstances.
Starring: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo'Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey, Sherri Shepherd, Lenny Kravitz, Stephanie Andujar, Chyna Layne, Amina Robinson, Xosha Roquemore;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Precious” on the website imdb.com
“Sleepers”, 1996
Director: Barry Levinson
In this intense drama, a group of friends seek revenge against a former guard who abused them as children while they were in a juvenile detention center.
Starring: Kevin Bacon, Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Patric, Brad Pitt, Billy Crudup, Minnie Driver, Ron Eldard, Vittorio Gassman, Brad Renfro;
Production year: 1996;
Genre: drama, crime, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 147 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Sleepers” on the website imdb.com
“Dolores Claiborne”, 1995
Director: Taylor Hackford
This psychological thriller explores the strained relationship between a woman and her abusive father, as dark family secrets come to light.
Starring: Kathy Bates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judy Parfitt, Christopher Plummer, David Strathairn, Eric Bogosian, John C. Reilly, Ellen Muth, Bob Gunton, Roy Cooper;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: detective, drama, crime, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Dolores Claiborne” on the website imdb.com
“This Boy's Life”, 1993
Director: Michael Caton-Jones
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, this film depicts the struggles of a young boy living with his abusive stepfather in the 1950s.
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Ellen Barkin, Jonah Blechman, Eliza Dushku, Chris Cooper, Carla Gugino, Zachary Ansley, Tobey Maguire, Tracey Ellis;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 115 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “This Boy's Life” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a poignant and often heartbreaking look at the impact of abusive fathers on their families, highlighting the resilience and strength of those who endure such trauma.
In exploring the complex and often harrowing topic of abusive fathers through cinema, these films have succeeded in shedding light on the devastating impact of such relationships on individuals and families. Through powerful storytelling, nuanced performances, and raw emotional depth, these movies have confronted viewers with the harsh realities of abuse, urging us to confront these issues head-on and work towards breaking the cycle of violence. While difficult to watch at times, these films serve as important reminders of the resilience and strength of those affected by abuse, offering a platform for empathy, understanding, and ultimately, hope for a better future.
