Adam Sandler has become one of the most recognized and beloved names in Hollywood, known for his unique brand of humor, memorable characters, and unexpected forays into dramatic roles. Whether he's making us laugh in iconic comedies or surprising audiences with his depth in serious performances, Sandler’s filmography offers something for everyone. In this blog, we explore the 10 best Adam Sandler movies, showcasing his versatility and comedic genius.
1. Happy Gilmore (1996)
Description: A sports comedy about a failed hockey player turned golf star.
Overview and Features
Directed by Dennis Dugan, "Happy Gilmore" is one of Adam Sandler's most iconic early comedies. Sandler plays Happy Gilmore, a failed hockey player who discovers he has an incredible talent for golf. Desperate to save his grandmother’s home, Happy enters a professional golf tournament and uses his unorthodox methods to rise through the ranks. Along the way, he faces off against his archrival Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), adding hilarious conflict to the story.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Happy Gilmore" captures Sandler’s signature blend of slapstick comedy and heartwarming moments. His portrayal of an unlikely sports hero with anger issues creates memorable laughs, and the film’s mix of physical comedy and quirky characters makes it a cult classic. It's one of Sandler’s most beloved films for fans of both sports and comedy.
Unique Description: Hilarious sports comedy about an unlikely golf champion.
IMDb Score: 7.0
2. The Wedding Singer (1998)
Description: A romantic comedy about a wedding singer navigating heartbreak and new love.
Overview and Features
Directed by Frank Coraci, "The Wedding Singer" is a charming romantic comedy set in the 1980s. Sandler plays Robbie Hart, a wedding singer who gets left at the altar by his fiancée. Heartbroken and disillusioned, Robbie finds himself helping Julia (Drew Barrymore), a waitress engaged to a self-absorbed businessman, plan her wedding. As Robbie and Julia grow closer, they begin to question their romantic futures.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Wedding Singer" perfectly balances humor with heartfelt romance, showcasing Sandler’s softer side while maintaining his comedic edge. The film's nostalgic 80s soundtrack, combined with the endearing chemistry between Sandler and Barrymore, has made it a fan favorite. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with a humorous twist.
Unique Description: Heartfelt rom-com about love, weddings, and second chances.
IMDb Score: 6.9
3. Big Daddy (1999)
Description: A comedy about a man-child who adopts a boy to prove his maturity.
Overview and Features
Directed by Dennis Dugan, "Big Daddy" stars Adam Sandler as Sonny Koufax, a man who avoids responsibility at all costs. When his girlfriend leaves him, Sonny adopts a young boy, Julian (played by twins Cole and Dylan Sprouse), in an attempt to prove that he can handle adulthood. As Sonny and Julian bond, Sonny learns valuable lessons about responsibility, love, and family.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Big Daddy" blends Sandler’s humor with heartfelt moments, making it one of his most endearing films. The relationship between Sonny and Julian is both funny and touching, offering a sweet portrayal of what it means to grow up. Sandler’s comedic timing, combined with the emotional depth of the story, makes "Big Daddy" a classic.
Unique Description: A heartwarming comedy about fatherhood and growing up.
IMDb Score: 6.4
4. 50 First Dates (2004)
Description: A romantic comedy about a man who falls in love with a woman with memory loss.
Overview and Features
Directed by Peter Segal, "50 First Dates" reunites Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore in this unique romantic comedy. Sandler plays Henry Roth, a veterinarian in Hawaii who falls for Lucy Whitmore (Barrymore), a woman suffering from short-term memory loss. Every day, Lucy forgets who Henry is, and every day, he must win her heart all over again. The film’s tropical setting adds to its charm, while its emotional core touches on the themes of love and commitment.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"50 First Dates" is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and heartwarming moments. Sandler and Barrymore’s chemistry shines, and the film’s premise offers a fresh take on the rom-com genre. The movie’s balance of laughter and emotion makes it one of Sandler’s most beloved romantic comedies.
Unique Description: A sweet romantic comedy about love and memory loss.
IMDb Score: 6.8
5. Punch-Drunk Love (2002)
Description: A quirky drama about a lonely man finding love in unexpected ways.
Overview and Features
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, "Punch-Drunk Love" is a departure from Sandler’s usual comedic roles, showcasing his dramatic chops. Sandler plays Barry Egan, a socially awkward and lonely man with anger issues who unexpectedly falls in love with Lena (Emily Watson). As Barry navigates this newfound love, he is also dealing with extortionists and his overbearing sisters, creating a chaotic but touching narrative.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Punch-Drunk Love" is a critically acclaimed film that highlights Sandler’s ability to take on more complex, emotional roles. His portrayal of Barry is vulnerable, nuanced, and far removed from his typical comedic persona. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in seeing Sandler’s dramatic range and Anderson’s unique storytelling style.
Unique Description: A quirky drama showcasing Sandler’s unexpected dramatic range.
IMDb Score: 7.3
6. Grown Ups (2010)
Description: A hilarious reunion of childhood friends with Sandler leading the way.
Overview and Features
Directed by Dennis Dugan, "Grown Ups" brings together an ensemble cast of comedic talent, including Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider. The film follows a group of childhood friends who reunite after the death of their basketball coach. As they spend a weekend together with their families, they reminisce about the past and realize that growing up doesn't mean losing your sense of fun.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Grown Ups" is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, showcasing the natural chemistry between the comedic cast. Sandler’s laid-back style perfectly complements the ensemble, creating a feel-good comedy that’s enjoyable for the whole family. The film’s blend of humor, nostalgia, and lightheartedness makes it a favorite among Sandler fans.
Unique Description: A fun-filled reunion comedy with Sandler and his comedic crew.
IMDb Score: 5.9
7. Uncut Gems (2019)
Description: A gritty crime thriller about a jeweler’s high-stakes gamble.
Overview and Features
Directed by the Safdie Brothers, "Uncut Gems" features Adam Sandler in one of his most critically acclaimed dramatic roles. Sandler plays Howard Ratner, a New York City jeweler with a gambling addiction who makes risky bets in hopes of scoring big. As Howard juggles debts, dangerous criminals, and personal problems, his life spirals out of control, leading to a tense and unpredictable conclusion.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Uncut Gems" is a gripping and intense film that showcases Sandler’s ability to play darker, more serious roles. His performance as Howard is electric, earning him widespread critical praise and numerous award nominations. The film’s fast-paced storytelling, combined with Sandler’s unrelenting energy, makes it a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and dramatic cinema.
Unique Description: A gripping crime thriller featuring Sandler’s career-defining performance.
IMDb Score: 7.4
8. Billy Madison (1995)
Description: A classic comedy about a spoiled man who must repeat school.
Overview and Features
Directed by Tamra Davis, "Billy Madison" is one of Adam Sandler’s earliest and most iconic comedies. Sandler plays Billy Madison, a lazy, immature man who must repeat all 12 grades of school in order to inherit his father’s business. Along the way, Billy learns valuable lessons about responsibility, maturity, and friendship, all while creating absurd and hilarious situations.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Billy Madison" is pure Sandler comedy at its best, filled with slapstick humor, outrageous characters, and memorable one-liners. Sandler’s portrayal of the immature Billy is both hilarious and endearing, making it a fan favorite. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking to revisit the early days of Sandler’s comedic career.
Unique Description: A classic Sandler comedy about growing up in the funniest way.
IMDb Score: 6.3
9. The Waterboy (1998)
Description: A hilarious sports comedy about an unlikely football hero.
Overview and Features
Directed by Frank Coraci, "The Waterboy" stars Adam Sandler as Bobby Boucher, a simple and socially awkward waterboy for a college football team. After discovering his talent for tackling, Bobby is recruited to play for the team, much to the dismay of his overprotective mother (Kathy Bates). As Bobby becomes the team’s secret weapon, he learns to embrace his newfound confidence and rise to the occasion.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Waterboy" is one of Sandler’s most popular comedies, filled with his signature brand of physical humor and lovable underdog storylines. Bobby Boucher’s journey from waterboy to football hero is both hilarious and inspiring, and Sandler’s performance brings plenty of heart to the role. It’s a fun, feel-good comedy that has remained a fan favorite over the years.
Unique Description: A hilarious sports comedy about an unlikely football star.
IMDb Score: 6.1
10. Hustle (2022)
Description: An inspiring sports drama about a down-on-his-luck basketball scout.
Overview and Features
Directed by Jeremiah Zagar, "Hustle" stars Adam Sandler as Stanley Sugarman, a basketball scout who discovers a talented but troubled player, Bo Cruz (played by real-life NBA player Juancho Hernangómez), during a trip to Spain. Determined to prove Bo’s worth to the NBA, Stanley faces numerous challenges as he tries to get Bo drafted, while rekindling his own passion for the sport.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Hustle" is a heartwarming sports drama that showcases Sandler’s ability to balance comedy and emotion. His portrayal of a struggling scout trying to make a comeback is both inspiring and deeply personal. The film’s focus on mentorship, redemption, and the love of the game makes it a standout in Sandler’s recent work.
Unique Description: An inspiring sports drama featuring Sandler as a basketball scout.
IMDb Score: 7.3
FAQs
1. What are the best Adam Sandler movies?
Some of the best Adam Sandler movies include Happy Gilmore, Uncut Gems, 50 First Dates, and The Waterboy.
2. Has Adam Sandler won any awards for his dramatic performances?
While Sandler received critical acclaim for his performance in Uncut Gems, including numerous award nominations, he has yet to win a major acting award for his dramatic roles.
3. What is Adam Sandler’s highest-grossing movie?
One of Adam Sandler’s highest-grossing movies is Grown Ups, which became a box office hit due to its ensemble cast and comedic appeal.
4. What is the best Adam Sandler movie on Netflix?
"Hustle" (2022) is one of the best Adam Sandler movies currently available on Netflix, blending sports drama with heartwarming performances.
5. Which Adam Sandler movie is considered his best dramatic role?
"Uncut Gems" is widely regarded as Sandler’s best dramatic performance, earning him critical acclaim and award nominations.
Adam Sandler’s filmography is a testament to his versatility as an actor, from his laugh-out-loud comedies to his critically acclaimed dramatic performances. The 10 best Adam Sandler movies listed here highlight his journey through Hollywood, showcasing his ability to entertain and move audiences across a wide range of genres. Whether you're in the mood for a lighthearted comedy or an intense thriller, Sandler's films offer something for everyone.
