The Ultimate Ranking of Steve Martin's Best Movies

Steve Martin stands as a towering figure in the world of comedy. From his early days as a writer in the 1960s, penning jokes for shows like The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, to his rise as a stand-up comedian in the 1970s, Martin’s journey has been marked by a unique blend of humor, wit, and charisma. His transition to film solidified his status as a beloved actor, especially in roles that capture his endearing, fatherly charm.

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Steve Martin is an American comedian, actor, writer, and musician who has a net worth of $140-$200 million.

While not every film in Martin’s extensive catalog is a gem, many of his movies showcase his trademark absurdist humor, physical comedy, and offbeat wit. These films often feature Martin’s inventive approach to comedy, characterized by a playful subversion of traditional punchlines and structures. As he once mused, “What if there were no punchlines? What if there were no indicators? What if I created tension and never released it?” With this philosophy in mind, let’s dive into a ranking of Steve Martin’s top movies, celebrating the ones that have made a lasting impact.

10. ‘Roxanne’ (1987) – Directed by Fred Schepisi

“It’s not a big dream, it’s just a little dream.” In Roxanne, Steve Martin takes on the role of C.D. Bales, a charming fire chief who, despite his large nose, is a beloved figure in his town. This film is a modern retelling of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac story. Martin’s character, plagued by insecurities about his appearance, helps a handsome but less eloquent firefighter (played by Rick Rossovich) win the affection of the beautiful Roxanne (Daryl Hannah).

The humor in Roxanne thrives on Martin’s chemistry with Rossovich, creating a romantic comedy that is both subtle and charming. While the plot sometimes meanders, the film’s lighthearted approach and Martin’s engaging performance help maintain its warmth and appeal. The film successfully blends romance and comedy, showcasing Martin’s ability to infuse his character with both humor and heart.

9. ‘All of Me’ (1984) – Directed by Carl Reiner

“Those are my tingles you’re feeling.” In All of Me, Steve Martin plays Roger Cobb, a struggling lawyer and part-time jazz musician who finds his life turned upside down when he becomes possessed by the spirit of Edwina Cutwater, a recently deceased millionaire (Lily Tomlin). The comedy arises from the bizarre scenario where Cutwater’s spirit occupies the right side of Cobb’s body, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events.

Carl Reiner’s direction ensures that the film maintains a screwball energy, with Martin delivering one of his most physically expressive performances. The film’s quirky premise is elevated by the dynamic between Martin and Tomlin, who together create a delightful farce that remains engaging throughout its 93-minute runtime. All of Me stands out as a testament to Martin’s versatility and his skill in blending physical comedy with heartfelt moments.

8. ‘It’s Complicated’ (2009) – Directed by Nancy Meyers

“Here comes your ex-husband. Uh-oh, not the best time to be feeling groovy!” It’s Complicated is a romantic comedy where Steve Martin stars as Adam, an architect who becomes romantically entangled with Jane Adler (Meryl Streep), a successful bakery owner. Jane is torn between her ex-husband Jake (Alec Baldwin) and her burgeoning relationship with Adam, leading to a series of entertaining yet predictable plot twists.

While the film may not offer groundbreaking insights, its charm lies in the performances of its stellar cast. Streep, Baldwin, and Martin manage to turn clichéd scenarios into delightful viewing experiences. The movie is bolstered by its whimsical screenplay and the chemistry between the actors. As Streep noted, “Steve made [filming] fun… He’s a graceful man and [his character] is a true romantic. He’s tender.” This dynamic is evident throughout the film, adding depth to what could have been a standard rom-com.

7. ‘Father of the Bride’ (1991) – Directed by Charles Shyer

“Drive carefully. And don’t forget to fasten your condom.” In Father of the Bride, Steve Martin portrays George Banks, a loving but overprotective father grappling with his daughter Annie’s (Kimberly Williams) impending wedding. The film delves into the emotional and comedic chaos that accompanies wedding preparations, highlighting Martin’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments.

Though this remake of the classic film may not match the original’s charm, it is a crowd-pleaser, thanks largely to Martin’s performance and his dynamic with Martin Short, who plays the eccentric wedding coordinator. Father of the Bride delivers relatable family drama, a steady stream of gags, and a heartwarming narrative, earning it a place as a beloved comedy. The film’s commercial success, grossing $129 million against a $20 million budget, underscores its widespread appeal.

6. ‘Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid’ (1982) – Directed by Carl Reiner

“I’m working on an important case. It’s dangerous, and you’ll probably be killed.” In Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid, Steve Martin stars as Rigby Reardon, a private detective hired to investigate the death of a scientist. The film’s unique gimmick involves integrating clips from classic noir films, allowing Martin to interact with iconic actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant.

The film’s clever homage to film noir is executed with precision, thanks to a dedicated crew that included cinematographer Michael Chapman, who studied ’40s noir aesthetics in detail. The result is a witty and engaging parody that respects the genre while delivering Martin’s characteristic humor. Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid stands out for its inventive approach and Martin’s skillful blend of comedy and homage.

5. ‘Parenthood’ (1989) – Directed by Ron Howard

“Hey, let’s have five. Let’s have six. Let’s have a dozen and pretend they’re donuts!” Parenthood features Steve Martin as Gil Buckman, a father trying to balance the demands of parenthood with his personal and professional life. The film offers a thoughtful and comedic exploration of family dynamics, showcasing Martin’s knack for portraying the challenges and rewards of parenting.

Ron Howard’s direction, combined with Martin’s performance, creates a film that is both humorous and realistic. The movie’s appeal lies in its blend of slapstick and relatable family scenarios, making it a favorite among audiences. With a box office gross of $126 million against a $20 million budget, Parenthood proves that Martin’s comedic touch resonates with viewers and adds depth to the portrayal of family life.

4. ‘The Spanish Prisoner’ (1997) – Directed by David Mamet

“Good people, bad people, they generally look like what they are.” In The Spanish Prisoner, Steve Martin steps out of his comedic comfort zone to play Jimmy Dell, a mysterious businessman involved in a high-stakes scheme. The film’s intricate plot and punchy dialogue are hallmarks of writer-director David Mamet, who crafts a thriller that pays homage to Alfred Hitchcock.

Martin’s portrayal of Dell is refreshingly cold and menacing, providing a stark contrast to his usual comedic roles. His performance adds a layer of intrigue to the film, making it a standout in his career. The movie’s meticulous construction and Martin’s unexpected turn as a villain highlight his versatility and offer a glimpse into his potential for more dramatic roles.

3. ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ (1988) – Directed by Frank Oz

“To be with another woman, that is French. To be caught, that is American.” Dirty Rotten Scoundrels stars Steve Martin alongside Michael Caine as two con men vying to swindle a wealthy American heiress. The film’s humor stems from the escalating antics and competition between the characters, with Martin’s brashness complementing Caine’s suave demeanor.

The chemistry between Martin and Caine elevates the film, making it a memorable entry in the comedy genre. Their performances, combined with a catchy soundtrack and clever editing, create a film that remains entertaining and engaging. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels showcases Martin’s ability to excel in a comedic duo and highlights his knack for creating memorable characters.

2. ‘The Jerk’ (1979) – Directed by Carl Reiner

“He hates these cans. Stay away from the cans.” In The Jerk, Steve Martin makes a splash in his transition from stand-up to film with his role as Navin R. Johnson, a naïve and endearing man raised as an adopted son. The film’s humor is both absurd and clever, with Martin delivering a performance that is delightfully dimwitted yet charming.

The Jerk is a quintessential example of Martin’s talent for blending outrageous comedy with a touch of pathos. The film’s quotable lines and Martin’s madcap performance have earned it a place among the funniest movies ever made. Its success lies in Martin’s ability to play the fool while also offering moments of genuine warmth and humor.

1. ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’ (1987) – Directed by John Hughes

“If I wanted a joke, I’d follow you into the john and watch you take a leak.” Planes, Trains & Automobiles stands out as one of Steve Martin’s finest films, showcasing his comedic prowess in a road trip comedy directed by John Hughes. Martin stars as Neal Page, a high-strung executive whose travel plans are derailed by a snowstorm. He teams up with Del Griffith (John Candy), an affable yet irritating shower curtain ring salesman, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.

The film’s success lies in the chemistry between Martin and Candy, who play exaggerated versions of themselves to great effect. Their performances drive the film’s humor and emotional core, making Planes, Trains & Automobiles a classic that resonates with audiences. Hughes’ direction ensures that the film balances comedy with heartfelt moments, solidifying its place as a standout in Martin’s filmography.

Steve Martin’s film career is a testament to his comedic genius and versatility. From his absurdist humor to his heartfelt performances, his movies continue to entertain and inspire audiences. Whether playing a bumbling fool or a complex character, Martin’s unique touch has left an indelible mark on cinema. These ten films represent the pinnacle of Steve Martin’s work, each showcasing different facets of his talent and contributing to his enduring legacy in comedy.