When was the last time you saw a recent movie or series that displayed a strong, masculine man in a positive way? They are few and far between. Arguably Top Gun: Maverick's monumental success is largely due to the fact that it told the story of strong, male heroes. It stood out from the rest of the generic woke films coming out of Hollywood.
It is sad that there are so few examples in pop culture that show examples of what true manhood looks like—but there are a few. Glenn's staff compiled a list of films for parents who want to show their children/teenagers positive examples of manhood. These films will encourage your kids to use their strength to fight for what is right, to use their intellect to stand up for truth, to persevere through the overwhelming events and questions that life has in store, and to have compassion.
Note: Given some of the themes such as suicide, brief nudity, and some gun violence, it is recommended that parents watch these films first to ensure they are appropriate for their children.
1. Silverado
Silverado is a classic "modern" Western that pits four unlikely heroes against a cattle baron. The action is excellent and you get 4 versions of "hero" to discuss with your kids. If there is one Western that is modern enough for your kid to sit through, it's this one. PG-13, gun violence
2. Dead Poet's Society
This classic is slower-paced film. However, it has powerful lessons about life, happiness, fulfilment, and how pressure and expectations can impact your soul. Be aware that the film features teen suicide. PG-13, teen suicide
3. Last of the Mohicans
We recommend the most recent version with Daniel Day-Lewis. The Last of the Mohicans is a great history lesson and provides a strong story about how Europeans impacted Native Americans. PG-13, nudity-free sex scene, violence
4. The Man from Snowy River
Call this a "Western" if you want to, The Man From Snowy River is really a coming-of-age story about a young man earning his way and non-violently rationalizing the death of his father. PG, no limitations
5. The Untouchables
The Untouchables is an exceptional and language-clean Mafia film. This story is about Elliot Ness vs. Al Capone. Among the Hollywood-based Mafia movies, this one is "clean" in terms of language. PG-13, gun violence
6. The Way Way Back
This film is especially great for kids with divorced parents or who otherwise lost a father. It's a clean, excellent coming-of-age story, especially for teenagers becoming young adults. This will feel universal and familiar to most young people. PG, tiny bit of language
7. 12 Years A Slave
This film, of course, deals with some very challenging themes, but compared to Roots (which they should also see, but maybe at college as it has slightly more mature themes to it), it's shorter and more digestible. It delves into personal longing and sacrifice. It's just a must-watch. Note: it is definitely R-Rated for violence and scenes of rape. Please watch first and ensure you're comfortable with it. R, violence, rape
8. Saving Private Ryan
Saving Private Ryan is a classic World War II story told through the eyes of a small platoon sent on a mission to find one man in a "haystack of needles" in Normandy. The opening sequence is very violent, so take that into consideration. However, every American should see this film at some point, so you decide when is the appropriate time. PG-13, violence
9. The Natural
Not only is The Natural one of the best sports films ever made, but it is also an excellent movie to teach important lessons about persistence and being careful. As a plus, it will make your kids fall in love with Baseball. PG
10. Boyz N The Hood
Boyz N The Hood is one of the best examples of inner-city "gang" life. It has some language and drug use, so be prepared for a bit of dialogue when you watch. However, the film gives you a glimpse into inner-city life and teaches lessons without being preachy. R, language, drug use, brief nudity
11. To Kill A Mockingbird
We had to include at least one black-and-white film, and To Kill a Mockingbird is worthy of the spot. An excellent story that teaches about justice, standing up for the truth, and prejudice without being preachy. PG
12. The Secret of NIMH
We also needed an animated film, and there simply isn't a better one that tells a good story and teaches vital lessons than this one. The Secret of NIMF is Don Bluth's best film by far. Though the film has villains and heroes galore, the main hero is a small "mom" mouse, a rarity in animated movies. G
13. Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Just among the best comedy films ever, Monty Python and the Holy Grail gives you a chance to expose your kids to the Python troupe but in a complete movie story instead of just sketches. It is a great example of intellectual and tasteful humor. I promise you'll be shocked at how funny it still is. PG-13, brief nudity
15. Rocky IV
Even if your kids haven't seen Rocky 1-3, this film stands on its own. Plus, you can explain the Cold War to them (especially important right now). It's clean of language and sex, and they will see lots of muscles and maybe get inspired to hit the gym. PG-13, violence
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