15 Movies that Prove that Tom Hanks Is the ‘Dad’ of Hollywood

Tom Hanks is one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, known for his affable charm and relatable everyman persona. In this post, we’ll celebrate 15 movies that prove why Hanks is the ‘Dad’ of Hollywood, with heartwarming performances and iconic roles that have become part of pop culture history.

Big (1988)

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

Tom Hanks’s first major lead role in “Big” sees him playing a child trapped in an adult’s body, allowing him to exhibit paternal instincts as he navigates the adult world with a child’s innocence and curiosity.

A League of Their Own (1992)

Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures.

In “A League of Their Own,” Hanks plays a washed-up baseball player turned coach, serving as a father figure to an all-female baseball team during World War II. His tough love helps the team overcome numerous obstacles.

Forrest Gump (1994)

Tom Hanks As Forrest Gump Forrest Gump (1994) Paramount Pictures
Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Hanks’s Oscar-winning performance in “Forrest Gump” showcases his character’s paternal devotion in raising his son amidst navigating through his own extraordinary life. His portrayal of an intellectually challenged yet loving father cements his ‘dad’ status in Hollywood.

Apollo 13 (1995)

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

In “Apollo 13,” Hanks portrays astronaut Jim Lovell, who, despite being stranded in space, showcases the classic fatherly qualities of determination, resilience, and ingenuity in a crisis.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Hanks’s role as Captain John Miller in “Saving Private Ryan” has him leading a group of soldiers through war-torn France to find one man. His leadership and protectiveness resemble the stern yet caring nature of a father.

Cast Away (2000)

Cast Away DreamWorks Pictures & 20th Century Studios
Photo Credit: DreamWorks Pictures & 20th Century Studios.

In “Cast Away,” Hanks plays a man marooned on an uninhabited island. His character’s adaptability and will to survive, along with his makeshift companionship with Wilson, exhibit the enduring strength often associated with fatherhood.

Road to Perdition (2002)

Photo Credit: Dreamworks LLC.

As mob enforcer Michael Sullivan in “Road to Perdition,” Hanks shows a darker, more violent side, yet maintains a deep paternal bond with his son. His desperate journey to protect his child highlights his paternal on-screen persona.

The Terminal (2004)

Photo Credit: Dreamworks LLC.

In “The Terminal,” Hanks portrays an immigrant stuck in an airport due to a political coup in his home country. His character’s endurance, kindness, and resourcefulness evoke the spirit of a paternal figure guiding those around him.

The Polar Express (2004)

The Polar Express (2004) - Warner Bros
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

In this animated feature, Hanks voices multiple characters, including the train conductor who guides children on a magical journey to the North Pole. His warm, comforting presence underscores his position as Hollywood’s ‘dad.’

Charlie Wilson’s War (2007)

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

In “Charlie Wilson’s War,” Hanks’s character, a Texas congressman, takes a father-like interest in helping Afghanistan fight against Soviet invaders, showcasing his ability to inspire and lead in paternalistic roles.

Captain Phillips (2013)

Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures.

Hanks’s portrayal of Captain Richard Phillips, who defends his crew from Somali pirates, exemplifies the ‘Hollywood dad’ archetype. His bravery, leadership, and sacrifice for his crew mirror the characteristics of a protective father figure.

Bridge of Spies (2015)

Photo Credit: Dreamworks.

Hanks stars as James B. Donovan, a lawyer who defends an accused Soviet spy during the Cold War. His tenacity and commitment to justice reflect the fatherly attributes of steadfastness and integrity.

Sully (2016)

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

As the title character in “Sully,” Hanks portrays pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, who saved all passengers on Flight 1549 by making an emergency landing on the Hudson River. His character’s calmness and responsibility during crisis further establish Hanks as a paternal icon.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)

Photo Credit: Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Hanks perfectly channels the fatherly warmth of beloved television host Fred Rogers in “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.” His tender, empathetic performance underlines why he’s seen as the ‘dad’ of Hollywood.

Greyhound (2020)

Photo Credit: Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Hanks’s role in “Greyhound” as the naval commander leading a convoy of ships during WWII encapsulates his ‘dad’ image. His leadership, resolve, and resourcefulness reinforce his status as Hollywood’s dependable father figure.

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Photo Credit: Lucasfilm Productions.

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Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

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Photo Credit: Marvel Studios.

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Photo Credit: StudioCanal.

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