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"The price is wrong, fool!" – If you're an Adam Sandler fan, you know exactly where this line comes from!
From delivering gut-busting comedy to surprising audiences with serious acting chops, Adam Sandler has done it all.
Whether you love his goofy humor, his heartwarming roles, or his unexpected dramatic performances, there's an Adam Sandler movie for everyone. Over the years, he has become one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, with movies that range from pure comedy to touching dramas.
If you're looking for the best Adam Sandler movies to watch, this list has got you covered!
1. Airheads
Where to watch: Netflix
Sandler had established his reputation as a comedian on SNL when director Michael Lehmann selected him to act with Steve Buscemi and future Oscar winner Brendan Fraser in this beloved comedy about a rock band, The Lone Rangers, who are so eager to get their music played on the radio that they seize control of a radio station.
After a standout performance in 1993's Coneheads, it was Airheads that solidified Sandler's potential as a movie star, with Peter Travers of Rolling Stone describing him as "a red-hot screen discovery." It is one of the best Adam Sandler movies.
2. Billy Madison
Where to watch: JioHotstar
Billy Madison was Sandler's first leading role after SNL and successfully defined his iconic character: The Gen X man-boy with a genuine heart but an immature sense of humor. Sandler, who co-wrote the comedy as well, plays a pampered hotel heir whose father will not allow him to take over the business unless he successfully completes grades K through 12.
The film faced harsh criticism when it debuted — leading Sandler to avoid reading any reviews — but is now seen as a cherished part of Sandler's work, possibly his most memorable film. "Chlorophyll? More like snore-ophyll!" If you're a fan of Adam Sandler movies, this is a must-watch.
3. Happy Gilmore
Where to watch: JioHotstar / Prime Video
Sandler and writing collaborator Tim Herlihy succeeded Billy Madison with this comedic take on a sports film, featuring the former as a struggling hockey player who finds that his talents apply on the golf course. Carl Weathers plays the role of Happy's mentor, with Julie Bowen as his love interest and Christopher McDonald as a competing golfer, but it’s game show host Bob Barker who steals the scene, appearing as himself and battling Happy in a tournament. Happy Gilmore remains one of the most quotable Adam Sandler movies.
4. The Wedding Singer
Where to watch: Prime Video
In their first collaboration, Sandler stars as a wedding singer healing from heartbreak after being jilted at the altar, while Barrymore plays the waitress he becomes enamored with. The rom-com set in the '80s is their finest collaboration, which carried on with the 2004 amnesia rom-com 50 First Dates and the 2014 family comedy Blended. This remains a fan favorite among Adam Sandler movies.
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5. Punch-Drunk Love
Where to watch: Netflix
Paul Thomas Anderson was among the first auteur directors to utilize Sandler's complete abilities in a more serious role — although Sandler himself was not initially sure about his own casting. PTA crafted the character of socially awkward inventor Barry Egan specifically for Sandler, designing the quirky romantic comedy to highlight his unique comedic talent and on-screen rapport with Emily Watson, who portrays his unexpected love interest in the movie. Punch-Drunk Love garnered Sandler the highest praise of his career and would hint at more dramatic roles for the comedian in the future, making it a must-watch among Adam Sandler movies.
6. Spanglish
Where to watch: Prime Video
Three-time Academy Award winner James L. Brooks (Terms of Endearment) observed Sandler's acting in Punch-Drunk Love and selected him for Spanglish, which further advanced him into serio-comedic realms in a romantic comedy featuring conflicting cultures. In this story, he portrays a discontented chef in a troubled marriage who develops a bond with the family's maid (Paz Vega), an immigrant from Mexico aiming to provide her daughter with improved opportunities.
Here's a piece of film trivia: Sandler turned down the role of Max in Michael Mann's 2004 action thriller Collateral to make Spanglish instead. The part of Max was eventually given to Jamie Foxx, who earned an Oscar nomination for his role in the movie. If you're exploring Adam Sandler movies beyond just comedy, this is a great pick.
7. Funny People
Where to watch: JioHotstar / Prime Video
Funny People stands out as a notably self-referential addition to Sandler's film career: The character of George Simmons was penned by writer, director, and Sandler's former roommate, Judd Apatow. Simmons is a middle-aged film star who, after receiving a grim diagnosis, goes back to his beginnings in stand-up comedy. In true Apatowian humor, Funny People blends cringe and catharsis, featuring Seth Rogen as an aspiring comedian whom George mentors, and Leslie Mann as the ex-fiancée he hopes to reclaim. If you want to see a more introspective side of Adam Sandler movies, this is an excellent choice.
Whether you're in the mood for laugh-out-loud comedy, heartfelt romance, or even a serious drama, Adam Sandler movies offer something for everyone. So, grab some popcorn and start binge-watching these must-see films.
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