10 Best Rated Joe Dante Movies

Joe Dante, a luminary in the realm of film direction, has carved a unique niche by skillfully merging horror, comedy, and satire. The 1980s and ’90s witnessed his creative brilliance, evident in a string of cinematic gems such as “The Howling,” “Gremlins,” and “Innerspace.” Dante’s cinematic repertoire is marked by an ability to subvert genre conventions and breathe new life into established narratives. Although not every venture of his has been an unmitigated success, his best works have attained iconic status, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.

1. Small Soldiers (1998): Where Toys Turned Titans

“Small Soldiers” unfolds a tale of unintended consequences when Globotech Industries mistakenly equips action figures, the Commando Elite, with microprocessors intended for military use. The result is a battalion of formidable and aggressive miniature warriors. The narrative follows teenager Alan as he navigates the chaos that ensues, offering a satirical glance at war movie clichés and the military-industrial complex. While the storyline may lack depth, the film’s puppetry, CGI, and subtle military satire contribute to its overall appeal.

2. Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990): A Zany Parody

Picking up from its predecessor, “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” thrusts Gizmo into a high-tech research facility, unleashing a new wave of unpredictable Gremlins mutations. Joe Dante takes the franchise into a parody realm, playfully poking fun at the original film and Hollywood sequels. The result is a sequel that, while lacking the engaging narrative of the first, compensates with humor, inventive gags, and an unabashed sense of fun.

3. Explorers (1985): A Cosmic Coming-of-Age Adventure

“Explorers” marks Ethan Hawke’s feature debut in a sci-fi coming-of-age adventure. The film revolves around three friends who, inspired by vivid dreams, construct a makeshift spacecraft. The trio embarks on an interstellar journey, discovering more than they bargained for. Despite its initial box office struggles, “Explorers” has gained a cult following over time, lauded for its imaginative premise and portrayal of adolescent curiosity.

4. Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983): Dante’s Anthology Entry

Collaborating with renowned directors, Joe Dante contributed the segment “It’s a Good Life” to the anthology film “Twilight Zone: The Movie.” Remaking a classic episode, Dante navigates the challenges of living up to the original. While his rendition may fall short of the original’s brilliance, Dante’s segment stands out among the film’s diverse narratives, showcasing his affinity for the source material.

5. The Howling (1981): Howls of Terror and Innovation

“The Howling” thrusts news reporter Karen White into a werewolf-laden nightmare after encountering a serial killer. Dante’s film represents a significant leap in werewolf cinema, combining atmospheric horror with groundbreaking practical effects. The movie’s impressive werewolf transformation set new standards, influencing subsequent films in the genre.

6. The Second Civil War (1997): A Satirical HBO Gem

A departure into political satire, “The Second Civil War” is an HBO TV movie exploring immigration issues. Governor Jim Farley’s decision to close borders triggers a media frenzy and secession, leading to a war between the US Army and the Idaho National Guard. While embracing a goofy tone, Dante infuses sharp political commentary into the narrative, foreshadowing some themes later explored in modern television.

7. Innerspace (1987): Journey into Miniaturized Delight

“Innerspace” follows Lt. Tuck Pendleton, miniaturized and injected into hypochondriac Jack Putter’s body. The film explores industrial espionage, offering a blend of humor and adventure. Dante’s satisfaction with the film is evident, considering it a realization of his creative intentions. The movie’s effective premise, coupled with solid visual effects, earned it an Oscar.

8. The ‘Burbs (1989): Suburban Shenanigans Unleashed

“The ‘Burbs” casts Tom Hanks as Ray Peterson, a suburbanite suspicious of his enigmatic neighbors. Dante weaves a black comedy, delving into suburban paranoia and conspiracy theories. The film’s charm lies in the performances and a constant supply of shenanigans, transforming it into a cult classic despite lukewarm initial critical reception.

9. Matinee (1993): A Period Comedy’s Love Letter to Cinema

Set against the backdrop of the Cuban missile crisis, “Matinee” revolves around B-movie producer Lawrence Woolsey. Using the crisis as a marketing opportunity, Woolsey launches his horror movie, enlisting two teenagers in his eccentric schemes. Dante crafts a delightful love letter to cinema, seamlessly blending parody and nostalgia against the historical canvas of the early ’60s.

10. Gremlins (1984): Dante’s Magnum Opus

“Gremlins,” Dante’s magnum opus, introduces Gizmo and the chaos that ensues when its rules are broken. The film’s success transcends the screen, permeating popular culture with toys, sequels, and references in subsequent films. Dante’s skill in infusing dark elements into a family-friendly narrative, coupled with iconic creature design, cements “Gremlins” as a timeless and beloved classic.

In conclusion, Joe Dante’s filmography showcases a director unafraid to experiment with genres, infuse satire into diverse narratives, and entertain audiences with a distinct blend of horror and humor. While not every endeavor achieves equal acclaim, Dante’s best works have left an indelible mark on cinematic history, ensuring his legacy as a master of genre fusion.