As the June 19 Father’s Day holiday approaches, many think about their dads and thank them for the positive differences they’ve made. Those father-child relationships are often played out in movies, as well.

Dr. Tim White, associate professor of media, journalism and film at Missouri State University, is a film historian and listed his top-five feature films about dads and their kids.

Star Wars

White’s take: The original “Star Wars” triology was about a father’s failings and how he had to redeem himself. Obviously, the biggest failure Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker had was being evil and trying to destroy the universe. Plus, there was that dynamic between Anakin and Luke Skywalker which ended with Luke having to battle his dad.

The Godfather

White’s take: “The Godfather” series had two levels. On one hand, it compared the family to the mafia, and vice-versa. On the other hand, it demonstrated how something as strong as a family can survive something like belonging to the mafia. Even though Michael Corleone belonged to this terrible criminal organization, family was still the most important thing to him.

Finding Nemo

White’s take: “Finding Nemo” was an upbeat story that showed the lengths a father will go to find and save his son.

To Kill a Mockingbird

White’s take: A lot of movies are about fathers and sons, but “To Kill a Mockingbird” was about a father and his daughter. It showed how Atticus Finch demonstrated to Scout and Jem what it means to stand up for yourself and your beliefs.

Father of the Bride

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKSmMr0uOHk

White’s take: The Steve Martin version of “Father of the Bride” exemplified the way fathers are often depicted in American films: Well-meaning, but kind of a doofus. But in the end, George Banks is accepted, warts and all. He’s a good-hearted guy.