As a child of the ’90s, I vividly remember the excitement that accompanied each new Adam Sandler release. The man was a comedy godsend, delivering laughs with a finesse few could match. From his breakout role in Billy Madison to the unforgettable antics of Happy Gilmore and Big Daddy, each film left an indelible mark on my formative years.
It goes without saying that Adam Sandler is the OG comedy star. He has established himself as one of Hollywood’s most lovable and bankable stars thanks to his string of comedy blockbusters over the past few decades. But in addition to making audiences laugh with his goofy characters, Sandler has also quietly developed into a successful screenwriter. Counting feature films, shorts, and animated movies, he has now written and co-written scripts for over 20 movies.
It might be unexpected for many that the comedian who created iconic, humorous characters such as Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore is also responsible for penning the stories of some of his most beloved films. However, it’s through screenwriting that Sandler has been able to showcase his natural knack for comedy in a more structured manner. He’s both a gifted writer and performer, excelling in both roles.
Initially, Sandler honed his comedic skills by performing at comedy clubs. In the year 1990, he joined the writing team for Saturday Night Live, subsequently rising to fame in movie roles. His cinematic writing debut was in 1989’s Going Overboard, but it was with Billy Madison, a project he co-wrote with his regular partner Tim Herlihy, that he gained significant recognition. Since then, Sandler and his Happy Madison Productions have been creating scripts that showcase the unique humor we’ve come to associate with him.
This list arranges all the movies that Adam Sandler wrote, taking us on a journey through his early comedies and up to his recent animated ventures. Let’s reminisce together as we delve into the diverse and multifaceted world of Adam Sandler’s filmography.
20 Going Overboard (1989)
In a rather unfavorable turn of events, Sandler’s initial foray into feature films was greeted with some scathing critiques. However, these reviews failed to hinder him on his journey towards stardom. Going Overboard, the movie in question, introduces us to Shecky Moskowitz (Sandler), a comedian grappling with his career who lands a job on a cruise ship following an unfortunate drowning incident involving the resident humorist. The ship’s passengers are beauty pageant contestants, and despite Shecky’s ability to bring laughter to his audience, the film’s storyline takes some bizarre turns.
Fans of Sandler Would Want to Stay Away From This One
Sandler excels at physical humor and slapstick comedy; his rise to stardom was evident on Saturday Night Live. However, the concept of the film “Going Overboard” is so uninspired and lacks humor that it fails to showcase his talent effectively. It’s said that as soon as the producers gained access to the set (a cruise ship), they quickly wrote the script in three days, prepared for it in two, and filmed it all in six days. This hurried production likely explains why the movie feels more like an extended sketch comedy rather than a fully developed film, with none of the characters appearing well-rounded.
19 Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star (2011)
Known as “one of the most misunderstood comedies of the past ten years,” Bucky Larson: Born to Shine features a preposterous plotline. The central character, Bucky, is an immature man from a small town who uncovers a family secret – his parents were reserved adult film stars in the 1970s – and embarks on a new dream as a result. After learning this, Bucky ventures to Los Angeles where he encounters a string of mishaps (and a touch of romance) along the way.
A Comedy Incapable of Landing Jokes
The film titled “Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star” was written by Sandler, Allen Covert, and Nick Swardson, aiming for a raucous comedy with edgy humor. However, the mature jokes fell flat, leaving viewers feeling it was more pitiful than funny about Swardson’s character. The movie bombed at the box office and received severe criticism, earning six Razzie nominations, one of which was for Worst Picture.
18 Jack and Jill (2011)
An extraordinary performance for our beloved comedian, the movie Jack and Jill showcases Adam Sandler in a unique double role as the bothersome brother and sister. Jack Sadelstein is a thriving advertising executive whose only joy comes from his twin sister’s annual visits during Thanksgiving. This year, he aims to change things as he is determined to secure Al Pacino for a Dunkin’ Donuts advertisement. Despite their stark differences, Jill manages to create chaos in an attempt to gain her talented brother’s attention. In an unexpected twist, she even ends up dating Al.
Sandler’s Most Unsuccessful Role
What was meant to be a wacky tale of sibling rivalry ended up being one of the lowest points in Adam Sandler’s career. The actor, who co-wrote the script with Steve Koren, tried to take both his roles to the extremes but critics blasted the movie as lazy and thinly conceived, pointing out a problem with its “reliance on a single-joke premise that was never really funny to begin with.” Al Pacino was great, without a doubt, but Jack and Jill is a disliked comedy nonetheless.
17 The Ridiculous 6 (2015)
Given Sandler’s reputation as a pioneering comedian, it wasn’t unexpected when he decided to explore Westerns. After all, The Ridiculous 6 was his debut in that genre and it also signified the start of his highly successful partnership with Netflix for movie distribution. The film centers around cowboy Tommy, or “White Knife,” who discovers he has five long-lost brothers. He gathers them, setting off on a journey across the Old West to locate their father and reclaim their shared inheritance against this historical backdrop.
A Sub-Par Western Homage
Titled “The Ridiculous 6,” this Western comedy was penned by Tim Herlihy and Adam Sandler. The film boasts an impressive cast including Terry Crews, Taylor Lautner, Jorge Garcia, Steve Buscemi, Nick Nolte, Danny Trejo, Rob Schneider, Luke Wilson, and many others. Directed by Frank Coraci under Happy Madison Productions, which is Adam Sandler’s production company, the film was styled as a genuine Spaghetti Western but its execution fell flat, with humor that was sloppy and aimless. Regrettably, it received poor reviews from critics and holds a 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the few movies with such a score.
16 A Day with the Meatball (2002)
Titled “A Day with the Meatball,” this brief script penned by Adam Sandler, who also takes the director’s chair, offers a delightful glimpse into one day spent with his beloved English Bulldog pet, affectionately named Meatball. He brought home Meatball along with three other canine companions: Matzo Ball, Babu, and Bagel.
Adorable Short Film
Everyone who’s a fan of Sandler understands the significant role his dogs have played in his life, both on and off-stage. Meatball wasn’t just a family pet; he was also Adam Sandler’s best man and ring bearer at his wedding. Given his importance, it was only a matter of time before Meatball stepped into the limelight, and he did so with this 2002 short film. Despite its brief running time, the movie is quite funny and enjoyable for pet enthusiasts.
15 Goldman v Silverman (2020)
If you genuinely believe Sandler’s collaboration with the Safdies is akin to DiCaprio and Scorsese, then the short film “Goldman v Silverman” supports your viewpoint. This unexpected production revolves around Rod Goldman and Al Silverman, two street artists who are bitter rivals. Goldman’s success appears shaky, with Silverman constantly upstaging him whenever he gets the chance.
An Oddly Amusing Short Film
In under seven minutes, Goldman vs. Silverman effectively portrays the gritty New York atmosphere and offers insightful observations about the industry’s view of actors and directors. Adam Sandler takes on the role of Rod Goldman, dressed in gold to symbolize an Oscar trophy, captivating his audience with his performance. Benny Safdie delivers a stunning portrayal as Al Silverman, living up to expectations. The short film is both witty and heartfelt, offering a fresh perspective.
14 Grown Ups 2 (2013)
In a follow-up that somehow lacks the charm of the original, the comedic quartet consisting of Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, and David Spade reunite in Grown Ups 2. Set three years after the first movie, the story finds Lenny relocating his family to his old hometown Stanton, which happens to be where Eric, Kurt, and Marcus reside. Unlike before, their camaraderie takes a step back as they grapple with typical adult issues.
Fascinating but Unfunny
Despite being harshly criticized as “simply outdated and poorly made,” Grown Ups 2 defied expectations and became a financial triumph, earning a global revenue of $247 million on a production budget of only $80 million. This indicates that Adam Sandler’s audience found the camaraderie and connection portrayed by the star-studded cast to be delightful, and they also appreciated the skillful blend of humor, emotion, and a thoughtfully written script. The screenplay for this film was crafted by Sandler, Fred Wolf, and Tim Herlihy.
13 Little Nicky (2000)
Due to a recent trend in Hollywood where they’re cutting back significantly on comedy production, it seems almost unbelievable that the film Little Nicky was made with a budget of $85 million. In this movie, Adrian and Cassius, two of Satan’s toughest offspring, embark on a mission to Earth to establish a new Hell on our planet. To thwart them, the weakening devil dispatches Nicky, his third and somewhat dim-witted son, to capture and return them. Despite being on a mission, Nicky stumbles along, all while yearning for love.
Deserves a Second Chance
In an attempt to stretch his creative abilities beyond his usual bounds, Sandler weaves a whimsical story set in a unique mythology. Collaborating with Tim Herlihy and directed by Steven Brill, this film showcases a quirky and amusing narrative that leaves you captivated by its characters. Notably, it boasts appearances from Quentin Tarantino, Kevin Nealon, Reese Witherspoon, and Rodney Dangerfield.
12 Eight Crazy Nights (2002)
As a seasoned movie critic, allow me to share my thoughts on the adult animated musical comedy, “Eight Crazy Nights.” In this film, we follow the life of Davey Stone, a 33-year-old man who finds himself lonely and struggling with alcoholism. However, he does possess a few bright moments in his daily routine.
Sandler Voices Two of the Main Characters
In his role as co-writer, producer, and voice actor, Sandler gave it his all in this animated film about overcoming personal vices and finding self-acceptance. Critics have panned the movie for its visually uninteresting aspects, some even calling it a “queasy mix,” while fans found the humor lacking and crass. Regardless of whether it was deliberate or not, Eight Crazy Nights failed to impress many viewers and bombed at the box office.
11 The Week Of (2018)
In a week’s time, The Week Of – a comedy filled with humor by Adam Sandler – will make its debut as a feature film directed by Robert Smigel. The story centers around Sarah Lustig and Tyler Cortice, who are preparing for their upcoming wedding. The fathers of the bride and groom, Kenny (played by Adam Sandler) and Kirby (Chris Rock), respectively, are involved in the proceedings. However, Kenny is adamant about footing all the bills, causing friction between them as the days pass. As a result, this week proves to be the longest and most challenging of their lives.
Among Sandler’s Touching Movies
Sandler and Rock made their debut as a duo on “Saturday Night Live,” and they’ve been friends ever since. In “The Week Of,” these two talents join forces, but the film concentrates so heavily on secondary characters that it leaves little room for Sandler and Rock to fully showcase their dramatic and comedic skills. Nevertheless, “The Week Of” is a thoughtful and entertaining comedy that strikes a chord with viewers and demonstrates Sandler’s ability to elicit both tears and smiles, highlighting his versatility.
10 Grown Ups (2010)
Following the unexpected demise of their cherished junior high school basketball coach, a quintet of old pals – Lenny Feder, Eric Lamonsoff, Kurt McKenzie, Marcus Higgins, and Rob Hilliard – convene at his house to pay tribute to him. It’s been three decades since they last played, and now these middle-aged individuals find themselves juggling kids, careers, and various duties. Finding common ground isn’t always simple, but the friends manage to create unforgettable summer moments together.
Easy, Breezy, and Nostalgic
“Grown Ups” is a warm-hearted comedy that brings together Adam Sandler with his old friends from Saturday Night Live, such as Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider. Unlike some comedies, it doesn’t have a deep meaning or overarching message guiding its storyline. Instead, it focuses on generating laughter naturally through the camaraderie and chemistry of the main cast. For the most part, this works well. However, you may notice that the supporting actors, like Maya Rudolph and Maria Bello, are not given as many opportunities to shine as one might expect.”
9 Sandy Wexler (2017)
In this drama-comedy, Sandler narrates the tale of his manager, Sandy Wernick. The protagonist is an ambitious talent manager with a peculiar character who often hides certain aspects about himself. This sometimes results in situations that seem satirically accurate, but at other times, it feels as if some elements are not fully developed. The main character, Sandy, encounters a young woman named Courtney Clarke, and this meeting transforms Sandy’s life irrevocably.
Sandler’s Bittersweet Send-Up
Sandy Wexler provides a glimpse into the struggles and aspirations of the comedy world; it can be seen as a humorous tribute to the industry, brimming with humor and heart. Although it may not induce constant laughter and could use more layers, Sandler’s portrayal of the talent manager is spot-on, capturing qualities such as resilience and dedication. As expected, the film includes appearances by Sandler’s friends.
8 You Don’t Mess with the Zohan (2008)
In the movie “You Don’t Mess with the Zohan”, Adam Sandler showcases his full range of acting abilities. Directed by Dennis Dugan, the film tells the story of Zohan, an elite Israeli anti-terrorism operative who is tired of conflict and pretends to die so he can pursue his dream of becoming a hairdresser in New York City. However, even after undergoing a complete physical makeover, Zohan must evade a Palestinian-American taxi driver determined to reveal his hidden past.
A Total Mood-Lifter
You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, penned by Sandler alongside Robert Smigel and Judd Apatow, presents an outrageously funny fish-out-of-water comedy that seamlessly blends physical humor and social critique. The film’s humor, rooted in spy movies, is sprinkled with jokes every minute, creating entertainment that appeals to both teenagers and adults set against the backdrop of New York City. Sandler shines brilliantly as Zohan, offering a spectacular performance that exceeded our expectations.
7 Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015)
In “Hotel Transylvania 2,” Dracula finds himself anxious as he arranges his grandson Dennis’ birthday celebration at Hotel Transylvania. However, much to his concern, Dennis doesn’t seem to be displaying any vampire traits. Mavis and Johnny, Dennis’ parents, ponder the idea of relocating to Santa Cruz for a more typical upbringing for their son. But things take an unexpected twist when Dracula seeks aid from a friend to initiate Dennis’ transformation into a vampire.
A Pleasant and Heartfelt Sequel
In the much-loved monster-comedy series, Sandler contributes not just his voice but also his exceptional writing skills. He infuses the sequel with a charming and intelligent touch. The storyline, now inclusive of humans, shifts focus from monsters to family matters, particularly the aspirations for their children’s future. By skillfully blending the franchise’s traditional humor with a moving finale, Hotel Transylvania 2 remains as amusing as ever.
6 Leo (2023)
In the realm of animation, Leo, an endeavor born from Adam Sandler’s persistent collaboration with Netflix, stands as a testament to his success. Notably, it is the second animated film produced by Happy Madison Productions. In this movie, Sandler lends his voice to the lead character, a tuatara named Leo, who has been a familiar face in fifth-grade classrooms for quite some time. As he grapples with mortality, when a strict substitute teacher asks each student to take care of Leo temporarily, he finds himself entwined in their aspirations and hardships. Additionally, he provides them with wisdom that proves beneficial in their lives.
A Wholesome, Disney-Esque Family Comedy
In a consistent pursuit to amuse the whole family, Sandler’s work often misses its mark, but Leo shatters this pattern, becoming an endearing, astonishing, and delightful film. The melodies are irresistibly catchy, the characters are dedicated and side-splittingly funny, the atmosphere is upbeat, and the representation of fifth-graders rings remarkably true. Directed by Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, and David Wachtenheim, with a script penned by Sandler, Smigel, and Paul Sado.
5 Hubie Halloween (2020)
In the small town of Salem, Massachusetts, Hubie Dubois is a devoted local who holds a special affection for Halloween, yet he’s not always held in high regard by his fellow townsfolk and often faces ridicule. However, come every October 31st, he diligently keeps watch over the town and attempts to report any issues or concerns. Despite being dismissed as a prankster, Hubie becomes increasingly concerned when people start disappearing and a potential kidnapper threatens to mar Halloween celebrations. The adults refuse to take his outlandish tales seriously.
Has the Potential to Become a Traditional Halloween Rewatch
Written by Tim Herlihy and Adam Sandler, “Hubie Halloween” stars Sandler himself along with Kevin James and Julie Bowen. Notable collaborators like Schneider and Buscemi make brief appearances. This film enthusiastically embodies the charm of small towns, communities, and the special magic that Halloween brings to our childhood memories. It’s packed with amusing shenanigans that are both laugh-out-loud funny and enjoyable. The underlying message revolves around standing up against bullying, maintaining optimism, and trusting in your personal beliefs. If you enjoy Sandler in his goofy elements, then this movie is tailor-made for you.
4 The Waterboy (1998)
In Adam Sandler’s filmography, it can be tricky to remember all the various characters he’s portrayed. However, one standout is Bobby Boucher. At 31 years old, Bobby was a waterboy for a football team and had limited social interactions. Despite this, he demonstrated an impressive knack for the game. When a key player got injured, coach Klein recognized Bobby’s potential and allowed him to try out for the team. With the support of his friends and Vicki, a romantic interest, Bobby guided his squad to triumph.
Sandler Emerges as the Leading Man
In one of his memorable performances, Adam Sandler, along with co-writer Tim Herlihy, shaped the character of Bobby Boucher, allowing him to fully express his comedic flair. Audiences adored this character for his lively demeanor, which not only drove the film’s straightforward plot but also provided an even balance of emotion and humor. At the box office, “The Waterboy” garnered a global revenue of $200 million, significantly surpassing its production budget of approximately $20 million.
3 Billy Madison (1995)
Although Sandler has proven himself to be an actor capable of handling dramatic roles, it was with comedic characters like the one he played in the outrageous comedy “Billy Madison” that he first gained recognition. As the pampered and intellectually-challenged son of a hotel mogul, Billy Madison’s life takes a drastic turn when he is given an ultimatum: complete all 13 grades of school within 26 weeks or forfeit his inheritance.
Adam Sandler’s Breakout Blockbuster
Adam Sandler first showcased his man-child persona in the movie “Billy Madison.” This character is often unambitious, frequently finds himself at odds with the public, and boasts some obscure talents that prove to be largely useless. However, he’s also charming, entertaining, and his lines are incredibly memorable. The film kickstarted Sandler’s career and solidified him as a relatable figure. Directed by Tamra Davis, it revolutionized slapstick comedy, celebrated life, and injected vitality into the screen. Although it received a mix of positive and negative reviews initially, “Billy Madison” quickly gained immense popularity and remains a favorite among Sandler’s fans to this day.
2 Happy Gilmore (1996)
A film that keeps audiences, both young and old, in stitches, with many considering it one of Adam Sandler’s finest works to date, Happy Gilmore presents him as a struggling ice hockey player. His dream was to achieve fame and glory on the ice, but life had other ideas. When he discovers that his grandmother’s home is at risk of being repossessed, Happy takes to the golf course, astonishing everyone with his hot-tempered style.
Takes a Swing at Comedy Gold
With unbridled excitement, Sandler stepped into his second major role, co-written with Tim Herlihy (their second joint project). On-screen, Sandler’s affection for the character was palpable. Director Dennis Dugan brought raw energy to the action scenes and comedic antics, while actors like Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen, and Carl Weathers added their own brand of humor to the mix. This film sparked a trend in sports comedies and maintained its appeal for nearly two decades, eventually leading to a sequel.
1 Big Daddy (1999)
Three years following the release of “Happy Gilmore,” “Big Daddy” claimed the number one spot due to its side-splitting comedy and Sandler’s portrayal of a more heartfelt character. In this film, Sandler takes on the role of Sonny Koufax, a troubled law school graduate who has been dumped by his girlfriend for being too reckless. Seeking a change, Sonny encounters a five-year-old boy and impulsively adopts him as a way to demonstrate that he’s finally grown up.
Finally Hitting the Stride
In recent years, Adam Sandler had been making a name for himself in Hollywood as a rising comedy star with immense potential. He also found success appealing to younger audiences, and in a script he co-wrote with Herlihy, he envisioned Dylan and Cole Sprouse as the five-year-old who would tap into his fatherly instincts. The film successfully blended heartfelt moments with lighthearted humor, making it one of Sandler’s most acclaimed works and a favorite to rewatch.
You can watch Adam Sandler’s latest comedy special,
Adam Sandler: For you
, on Netflix.
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2024-09-02 05:03