The 16 Best Adam Sandler Movies Ranked: From Comedy Classics to Unforgettable Dramas
A definitive look at Sandler’s evolution from goofy comedic roles to dramatic turns.
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The 16 Best Adam Sandler Movies, Ranked
Adam Sandler, the icon of American comedy, has a filmography spanning over three decades, featuring cult classics, blockbuster hits, and celebrated dramatic performances. This ranking highlights his most memorable movies, showcasing the broad spectrum of his acting talent—from his slapstick comedies to his dramatic tour de forces.
Understanding the Adam Sandler Phenomenon
Sandler’s career trajectory is something of a Hollywood legend. With a global box office haul exceeding $3 billion, and a $250 million Netflix deal, he’s managed to carve out a niche as both an audience favorite and a punchline for critics. His journey from Saturday Night Live prodigy to one of the entertainment industry’s most bankable stars is marked by success stories and moments of critical redemption.
Quick Table: Adam Sandler’s Movies at a Glance
| Rank | Movie | Year | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Uncut Gems | 2019 | Crime/Drama |
| 2 | Punch-Drunk Love | 2002 | Romantic/Drama |
| 3 | Happy Gilmore | 1996 | Comedy/Sports |
| 4 | The Wedding Singer | 1998 | Romantic Comedy |
| 5 | Billy Madison | 1995 | Comedy |
| 6 | 50 First Dates | 2004 | Romantic Comedy |
| 7 | Big Daddy | 1999 | Comedy |
| 8 | Hustle | 2022 | Sports Drama |
| 9 | Funny People | 2009 | Comedy/Drama |
| 10 | Spanglish | 2004 | Comedy/Drama |
| 11 | Reign Over Me | 2007 | Drama |
| 12 | The Waterboy | 1998 | Comedy/Sports |
| 13 | Mr. Deeds | 2002 | Comedy |
| 14 | Little Nicky | 2000 | Comedy/Fantasy |
| 15 | Click | 2006 | Fantasy/Drama |
| 16 | Grown Ups | 2010 | Comedy |
1. Uncut Gems (2019)
Sandler’s most celebrated dramatic performance, Uncut Gems, transformed him into a serious contender for critical acclaim. As Howard Ratner, a high-octane jeweler and risk-addicted gambler, he delivers a chaotic, nerve-wracking portrayal that keeps audiences on edge. Sandler channels a sense of frantic urgency and flawed humanity, earning him nominations and praising reviews from critics and fans alike.
- Directed by the Safdie brothers
- Tense, unsettling, relentless pacing
- Showcases Sandler’s depth in drama
2. Punch-Drunk Love (2002)
This surreal romantic drama by Paul Thomas Anderson allowed Sandler to stretch his acting boundaries. Playing Barry Egan, a painfully shy man navigating family dysfunction and unexpected love, Sandler is subtle, vulnerable, and surprisingly powerful.
- Breaks typecast as comic simpleton
- Won critical acclaim and awards
- A cult favorite for Sandler fans
3. Happy Gilmore (1996)
Arguably Sandler’s most quotable comedy, Happy Gilmore follows an unruly outsider as he takes on the genteel world of professional golf. The slapstick humor and Sandler’s outrageous antics make this an enduring classic.
- Quirky sports comedy
- Features unforgettable outbursts and one-liners
- Helped cement Sandler’s A-list status
4. The Wedding Singer (1998)
A delightful romantic comedy set in the 1980s, The Wedding Singer pairs Sandler with Drew Barrymore. With a heartfelt story, retro soundtrack, and genuine chemistry, the film is fondly remembered as one of his sweetest outings.
- Sandler and Barrymore’s remarkable on-screen chemistry
- Balance of comedy and tender romance
- Set against a nostalgic backdrop
5. Billy Madison (1995)
In this absurdist comedy, Sandler’s title character must repeat every grade school year to inherit his father’s fortune. Its memorable catchphrases and ridiculous premises helped launch Sandler’s career as a comedic lead.
- Childish antics and schoolyard humor
- Features iconic comedic scenes
- Birthed a legion of quotable lines
6. 50 First Dates (2004)
This clever romantic comedy reunites Sandler with Drew Barrymore as he tries to win the heart of a woman with short-term memory loss. The premise is undeniably sweet, and the film manages to blend humor with genuine emotion.
- Unusual romantic plot device
- Endearing performances from both leads
- Popular with wide audiences
7. Big Daddy (1999)
Sandler found comedy gold as a slacker who takes on fatherhood to win his girlfriend back. Big Daddy hits the perfect blend of crude humor and sentimental moments, revealing unexpected layers of his comedic persona.
- Co-stars Dylan and Cole Sprouse as the adopted son
- Comedy derived from Sandler’s inept parenting
- Touching ending
8. Hustle (2022)
In this sports drama, Sandler plays a washed-up basketball scout searching for redemption. Hustle marked a late-career highlight, with Sandler opting for a more nuanced, mature performance.
- Critically praised for dramatic restraint
- Shows Sandler’s range outside comedy
- Sports action blends with emotional stakes
9. Funny People (2009)
Directed by Judd Apatow, Funny People cast Sandler as a comedian confronting mortality, fame, and regret. Mixing heartfelt drama with sharp comedy, this film asks deeper questions about the price of success and the meaning of friendships.
- Meta-commentary on Sandler’s career
- Blends drama and comedy equally
- Ensemble cast includes Seth Rogen and Leslie Mann
10. Spanglish (2004)
This cross-cultural dramedy finds Sandler navigating love and family in a bilingual household. While less broad than his usual fare, his performance as a sensitive, conflicted father is quietly effective.
- Directed by James L. Brooks
- Tender and understated
- Recognized for mature acting
11. Reign Over Me (2007)
A post-9/11 drama, Reign Over Me sees Sandler take on one of his darkest roles—as a grieving man grappling with the loss of his family. The film is somber, but his portrayal is deeply human and empathetic.
- Features Don Cheadle as co-lead
- Tones of tragedy, friendship and hope
- Noted for sensitive performance
12. The Waterboy (1998)
The unforgettable Bobby Boucher—a socially awkward waterboy turned football star—represents Sandler at his most cartoonish, with a slew of memorable visual gags and catchphrases.
- Classic Sandler physical comedy
- Signature ‘simple underdog’ role
- Huge box office success
13. Mr. Deeds (2002)
Sandler revitalizes a Capra-esque tale of a humble small-town man inheriting millions. Mr. Deeds is earnest, funny, and a showcase for Sandler’s goofy charm.
- A loose remake of a classic
- Showcases Sandler’s likability
- Touches of romantic humor
14. Little Nicky (2000)
One of Sandler’s strangest roles, Little Nicky drops him in a fantastical comedy as the son of Satan. It’s a cult favorite due to its outlandish visuals and bizarre premise.
- Features heavy visual effects
- Guest stars abound, including Harvey Keitel
- Known for quirky, surreal humor
15. Click (2006)
This fantasy comedy finds Sandler controlling life with a magic remote. Beneath the absurdity lies a poignant commentary about family, regret, and making the most of everyday moments.
- Blends slapstick and drama
- Heartfelt moral lesson
- Popular with family audiences
16. Grown Ups (2010)
Assemble Sandler with his longtime comedy pals, add nostalgia for childhood, and Grown Ups delivers broad laughs and heartwarming moments. It’s an ensemble comedy about maturing, friendship, and finding humor in adulthood.
- Features Chris Rock, Kevin James, David Spade, and Rob Schneider
- Major box office draw
- Emphasis on comedic group chemistry
Honorable Mentions
- Spanglish and Reign Over Me—noteworthy for Sandler’s dramatic range and emotional depth.
- Punch-Drunk Love—remains a critical darling for elevating Sandler’s craft beyond slapstick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Has Adam Sandler won any major acting awards for his roles?
A: Though he has received critical acclaim and numerous nominations (especially for Uncut Gems and Punch-Drunk Love), Sandler has not received an Oscar, but he has won several audience choice and comedy awards.
Q: What is Adam Sandler’s highest grossing movie?
A: Grown Ups is among Sandler’s highest grossing films, while Netflix originals like Murder Mystery have set streaming records worldwide.
Q: Which Adam Sandler movies are the most critically acclaimed?
A: Uncut Gems, Punch-Drunk Love, and Hustle are frequently cited as his best by critics for their dramatic range and departure from traditional comedy roles.
Q: Will Adam Sandler make another Happy Gilmore?
A: Yes, a sequel to Happy Gilmore is scheduled for release on Netflix July 25, 2025.
Summary
Adam Sandler’s film legacy proves his appeal to audiences and his growth as an actor. From riotous comedies like Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore to celebrated dramatic roles in Uncut Gems and Punch-Drunk Love, this ranking highlights his best, capturing the essence of what makes Sandler a comedy legend and a versatile performer.
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