Summary
- Some of Steve Martin’s best films are underrated and relatively unheard of, showcasing his versatile talents beyond comedy franchises.
- Titles like
Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid
and
Shopgirl
highlight Martin’s nuanced humor and ability to tackle complex characters in underappreciated films. - From a detective in a parody film to a struggling architect in a romantic comedy, Martin’s range as an actor shines in lesser-known gems like
My Blue Heaven
and
Housesitter
.
Iconic comic actor Steve Martin has appeared in several huge Hollywood hits, but some of his best movies were underrated and relatively unheard of. Martin is generally remembered for his absurd humor and for appearing in some of the best comedy franchises of all time, such as Father of the Bride and Cheaper by the Dozen. He is also the most recent incarnation of Inspector Jacques Clouseau in The Pink Panther movies.
In recent years, Martin has made a name for himself in comedy TV shows like Only Murders in the Building alongside Martin Short and Selena Gomez. While Martin is always going to be an established actor and a prominent household name, he’s displayed the true extent of his talents in several underappreciated movies. From a black-and-white exclusive to a Bohemian food store owner, some of Steve Martin’s best films and roles are from titles that many have never seen.
Related 10 Iconic Steve Martin Characters, Ranked By Likability
Some Steve Martin characters, like Cheaper by the Dozen’s father of 12 Tom Baker, are more likable than others, like sleazy producer Bobby Bowfinger.
10 Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid (1982)
Role: Rigby Reardon
Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid is a brilliantly intelligent film and one of Martin’s earliest pieces. The 1982 title is a parody of film noir and 1940s detective movies that Steve Martin co-wrote with Carl Reiner, and it is one of their four collaborations. Martin plays a private investigator named Rigby Reardon, who investigates the murder of a local scientist at the request of his daughter, Juliet. Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid uses a fascinating combination of new footage and archive footage from 19 other movies, such as This Gun for Hire and The Postman Always Rings Twice.
What’s so brilliant about Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid is how subtle the humor is. The sheer ridiculousness of certain moments, such as Juliet sucking a bullet out of Reardon’s arm and the cheese-bomb plot, are taken so seriously that it’s hard not to laugh. The blending of Martin’s act and clips from other films work well together, and there are plenty of tiny details and Easter eggs that make Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid that much more enjoyable.
Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid PGComedyCrimeMystery Where to Watch
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Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid is a 1982 comedy film directed by Carl Reiner and starring Steve Martin as private detective Rigby Reardon. The film creatively interweaves scenes from classic noir films with new footage, creating a unique narrative. Reardon is hired to investigate Juliet Forrest’s father’s death, leading him on a convoluted journey filled with intrigue and humor. Rachel Ward also stars as Juliet Forrest in this homage to 1940s film noir.
Director Carl Reiner Release Date May 21, 1982 Cast Steve Martin , Rachel Ward , Alan Ladd , Carl Reiner , Barbara Stanwyck , Ray Milland , Ava Gardner , burt lancaster Runtime 88 Minutes Writers Carl Reiner , George Gipe , Steve Martin Main Genre Comedy Expand
9 The Lonely Guy (1984)
Role: Larry Hubbard
Martin plays Larry Hubbard in The Lonely Guy, a title that aptly represents his character. Larry’s struggles with meeting a woman lead him to write a guide on the matter, which ends his pattern of bad luck. While The Lonely Guy takes a few rewatches to fully understand, especially because the tone frequently flips between being a romantic comedy and an absurdist piece, it’s still an overall endearing movie. The theme of loneliness is prominent throughout, but it’s approached in a light-hearted way.
A great example of this is the cardboard cutouts many of the men carry around with them. However, The Lonely Guy is a stand-out in Martin’s filmography because his comedic performance is less full-on than some of his other characters. Larry isn’t exactly bold, but his shyness creates some laughable moments. Even though The Lonely Guy’s story might not work nowadays, it’s still a film that can be appreciated as a product of its time.
The Lonely Guy (1984) RComedyRomance
The Lonely Guy stars Steve Martin as Larry Hubbard, an aspiring author who navigates the trials and tribulations of single life in New York City after being dumped by his girlfriend. Directed by Arthur Hiller and based on the book by Bruce Jay Friedman, the film combines humor and poignancy as Larry and his friend Warren, played by Charles Grodin, cope with loneliness and seek companionship.
Director Arthur Hiller Release Date January 27, 1984 Cast Steve Martin , Charles Grodin , Judith Ivey , Steve Lawrence , Robyn Douglass , Merv Griffin , Joyce Brothers , Candi Brough Runtime 90 Minutes Writers Ed. Weinberger , Stan Daniels , Neil Simon , Bruce Jay Friedman Main Genre Comedy Expand
Related 15 Eye-Opening Movies About Loneliness That Blew Us Away
Movies about loneliness can often be incredibly emotionally resonating and impactful, these are all films that, in one way or another, blew us away.
8 Shopgirl (2005)
Role: Ray Porter
Shopgirl is an adaptation of Martin’s novella of the same name and sees him take on the role of rich mathematician Ray Porter. Porter’s first meeting with clothing store worker Mirabelle when he purchases a pair of gloves causes his heart to race, but it also results in a complicated love triangle with graphic designer Jeremy. Mirabelle is one of Claire Danes’ best roles, but her chemistry with Martin was a notable part of her performance.
The intriguing commentary about love triangles in Shopgirl plays into several romance movie tropes while also subverting them at the same time. While the ending of Shopgirl is rather predictable, the fate of Mirabelle’s love life still keeps audiences guessing right up until the climax of the film.Shopgirl is a romantic comedy, granted, but the use of profound moments and complex characters make it more thought-provoking than other titles in the genre.
Shopgirl RDramaRomance Where to Watch
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Shopgirl is a romantic drama directed by Anand Tucker, based on Steve Martin’s novella. The film stars Claire Danes as Mirabelle, a lonely Vermont transplant who works in a posh Beverly Hills boutique, and Steve Martin as Ray Porter, a wealthy older man. Their complicated relationship explores themes of love, loneliness, and the search for connection in a dispassionate world. Jason Schwartzman co-stars as Jeremy, a young and awkward suitor.
Director Anand Tucker Release Date November 4, 2005 Cast Steve Martin , Claire Danes , Jason Schwartzman , Bridgette Wilson , Sam Bottoms , Frances Conroy Runtime 107 minutes Writers Steve Martin Main Genre Drama Expand
7 Roxanne (1987)
Role: Charlie “C.D.” Bales
While Roxanne isn’t Martin’s most obscure film, it’s definitely one that younger generations haven’t seen. Martin plays fire chief Charlie “C.D.” Bales in the 1987 American romantic comedy, which is a modern retelling of Edmond Rostand’s play Cyrano de Bergerac. The piece had already been adapted once in 1950, which was a big inspiration to Martin. C.D.’s self-consciousness over the size of his nose is an undoubtedly strange premise, but it’s also oddly heartwarming.
The relationship between C.D. and the titular character is sweet and wholesome, one of the main reasons why it’s one of the best ‘80s romance movies ever. Roxanne shines a light on Martin’s talent as an actor, but it also acknowledges his skills as a scriptwriter. C.D. isn’t as outlandish as characters like Clouseau, but Martin’s interpretation of him allows him to show off his range as a performer.
Roxanne PG Where to Watch
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Roxanne, directed by Fred Schepisi, is a romantic comedy starring Steve Martin as C.D. Bales, a witty fire chief with an unusually large nose, and Daryl Hannah as Roxanne, a beautiful astronomer. The film is a modern retelling of Edmond Rostand’s play Cyrano de Bergerac, focusing on themes of love, self-acceptance, and inner beauty while delivering a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
Director Fred Schepisi Release Date June 19, 1987 Cast Steve Martin , Daryl Hannah , Shelley Duvall , John Kapelos , Fred Willard , Michael J. Pollard Writers Edmond Rostand , Steve Martin Runtime 107 Minutes Main Genre Comedy Expand
6 My Blue Heaven (1990)
Role: Vinnie Antonelli
My Blue Heaven is often compared to Goodfellas because of its focus on the mob, and although the former isn’t as strong as the latter, it still stands as a criminally underrated gangster movie. Martin portrays former mobster Vinnie Antonelli alongside the rest of My Blue Heaven’s star-studded cast, which includes massive names like Rick Moranis as Barney Coopersmith and Joan Cusack as Hannah Stubbs. Moranis and Martin’s rapport is fantastic throughout, and the contrast in their characters is the driving force.
Even though Martin as Vinnie is funny, the reason why he is so hilarious is that his casting is a little illogical. Martin’s performance isn’t bad by any means, but the flashy and over-the-top criminal in witness protection is quite different from his typical character archetype. However, this also works in Martin’s favor, especially because Vinnie’s loudness in a suburban landscape is so ludicrous. Considering that My Blue Heaven is one of Nora Ephron’s best movies, it’s surprising that it wasn’t more popular upon release.
My Blue Heaven (1990) PG-13ComedyCrime
My Blue Heaven stars Steve Martin as Vinnie Antonelli, a mobster entering witness protection under the supervision of FBI agent Barney Coopersmith, played by Rick Moranis. Directed by Herbert Ross, this comedy unfolds as Vinnie tries to adapt to his new suburban life while Barney faces the challenges of keeping him out of trouble and harm’s way. The film humorously explores themes of crime, identity, and unlikely friendships.
Director Herbert Ross Release Date August 17, 1990 Cast Steve Martin , Rick Moranis , Joan Cusack , Melanie Mayron , Bill Irwin , Carol Kane , William Hickey , Deborah Rush Runtime 97 Minutes Writers Nora Ephron Main Genre Comedy Expand
5 Housesitter (1992)
Role: Newton Davis
Housesitter is another work of Martin and Goldie Hawn’s, and their first project together after The Out-of-Towners in 1999. Martin’s portrayal of struggling architect Newton and Hawn’s of waitress Gwen are excellent, and their performances prove just why the pair works so well together. Housesitter heavily relies on screwball comedy and coincidences for laughs, and while it’s sometimes cringeworthy, it’s also enjoyable overall. Misunderstandings are also prominent in Housesitter, but they are also a staple of many of Martin’s funniest movies.
For example, Newton and Gwen’s initial meeting only ends well because Newton is so naive and thinks Gwen doesn’t speak English. Despite Martin’s strong presence, Goldie Hawn is the true star of Housesitter. Gwen’s hustling ways and charm are what drive the film forward, and at times, she overshadows Martin completely. While Martin has to share his spotlight frequently, watching Housesitter is still a fun experience for audiences of all ages.
HouseSitter (1992) PGComedyRomance
HouseSitter, directed by Frank Oz, follows architect Newton Davis, played by Steve Martin, whose dream house becomes the center of chaos when an eccentric waitress, portrayed by Goldie Hawn, starts living in it under false pretenses. Newton’s attempts to reclaim his house lead to a series of comedic misunderstandings and unexpected romantic developments. The film explores themes of ambition, deceit, and the complexities of human relationships.
Director Frank Oz Release Date June 12, 1992 Cast Steve Martin , Goldie Hawn , Dana Delany , Julie Harris , Donald Moffat , Peter MacNicol , Richard B. Shull , Laurel Cronin Runtime 102 Minutes Writers Mark Stein , Brian Grazer Main Genre Comedy Expand
Related Goldie Hawn’s 10 Best Movies, Ranked (According To Rotten Tomatoes)
From her Oscar-winning debut in Cactus Flower to appearances alongside her husband Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn has anchored some memorable roles.
4 Mixed Nuts (1994)
Role: Philip
Mixed Nuts is a Christmas movie like no other. The film was a commercial failure upon its release in 1994, but it’s also a title that has received more interest in later years. Martin leads the ensemble cast as Philip, a man who is down on his luck during the holidays and also runs a local suicide prevention hotline. Mixed Nuts is undoubtedly very politically incorrect at times, but the film’s intentions don’t appear to be abusive or tormentful on purpose.
However, there are some good qualities to Mixed Nuts. Adam Sandler appears in one of his earliest roles, portraying Louie Capshaw, the neighbor of Philip’s coworker. Martin presents his ability to perform as a more subdued and restrained character compared to his typical roles, but he still finds ways to be funny throughout. Even though Mixed Nuts isn’t exactly the best Christmas movie of all time, the use of dark comedy makes it a title that some can easily engage with.
Mixed Nuts (1994) PG-13ComedyDrama
Mixed Nuts is a 1994 comedy film directed by Nora Ephron, starring Steve Martin as Philip, the manager of a crisis hotline during the Christmas season. The ensemble cast includes Adam Sandler, Madeline Kahn, and Rita Wilson. The film follows the chaotic lives of the hotline’s staff and the eccentric callers they attempt to help, set against the backdrop of holiday festivities and challenges.
Director Nora Ephron Release Date December 21, 1994 Cast Steve Martin , Madeline Kahn , Robert Klein , Anthony LaPaglia , Juliette Lewis , Rob Reiner , Adam Sandler , Liev Schreiber Runtime 97 Minutes Writers Nora Ephron , Delia Ephron Main Genre Comedy Expand
3 The Big Year (2011)
Role: Stu Preissler
Despite featuring an incredible trio of Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson, The Big Year surprisingly flew under the radar. The focus on three competitive bird watchers, each experiencing a midlife crisis, is an obscure premise. Martin plays Stu, the CEO of a New York chemical company and a recent retiree, and he is brilliantly witty. However, Martin’s character is also notable because of moments that highlight Stu’s fears of having no purpose anymore.
Bird-watching is far from a concept that draws audiences in, especially for a comedy movie, but Martin manages to make it interesting. The Big Year isn’t exactly laugh-out-loud funny, but the intricate details of the hobby and the types of people who are involved with it definitely offer a specific kind of intelligent humor. The charm of The Big Year is modest, but it is a solid family film in general.
The Big Year PGComedy Where to Watch
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The Big Year is a comedy film centered around three avid bird watchers, played by Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson. They embark on a year-long competition to spot the rarest birds in North America. Directed by David Frankel, the movie explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the joys and trials of bird watching.
Director David Frankel Release Date October 14, 2011 Cast Owen Wilson , Jack Black , Steve Martin , John Cleese , Zahf Paroo , Stacey Scowley , Michael Karl Richards , Rosamund Pike Runtime 100 Minutes Writers Howard Franklin , Mark Obmascik Main Genre Comedy Expand
2 Baby Mama (2008)
Role: Barry Waterman
Baby Mama is a fabulous movie starring Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, but Martin steals the show as Barry Waterman. Barry is the boss of Fey’s character, Kate, and the hippy owner of a health food store chain, which results in some hilarious interactions. Barry’s out-of-touch innocence isn’t manipulative whatsoever, and he genuinely cares about Kate, which makes his bizarre requests from her that much more comical. For example, the five minutes of silence and intense eye contact Barry makes Kate share with him is utterly absurd.
Everything about Barry’s character design is laughable, however. His soft-spoken voice, eco-friendly lifestyle, and inability to flinch even when angry are all great qualities of his, and they highlight just how clever writer Michael McCullers is. Even though Martin doesn’t play a prominent part in Baby Mama, Barry is still a character who improves every scene he appears in.
Baby Mama PG-13ComedyRomance Where to Watch
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Baby Mama is a 2008 comedy directed by Michael McCullers, featuring Tina Fey as a career-focused woman who hires a surrogate, played by Amy Poehler, to carry her child. As the two women navigate the surrogacy process, their contrasting personalities lead to a series of humorous and heartwarming interactions. The film also stars Greg Kinnear and Sigourney Weaver.
Director Michael McCullers Release Date April 25, 2008 Cast Tina Fey , Amy Poehler , Greg Kinnear , Dax Shepard , Romany Malco , Sigourney Weaver Runtime 96 minutes Main Genre Comedy
Related Tina Fey’s 10 Best Movies (According To IMDb)
Tina Fey is best known for her work on TV shows like SNL and 30 Rock, but this hilarious Hollywood powerhouse has also starred in some beloved films.
1 It’s Complicated (2009)
Role: Adam Schaffer
Martin stars opposite Hollywood legend Meryl Streep in the 2009 movie It’s Complicated. As standard in the best Nancy Meyers films, there is a focus on a deeply complicated relationship, in which Martin’s character, Adam, plays a significant part. Meryl Streep’s Jane and her conflicted feelings over her affair with her ex-husband and her new budding romance with Adam are complex, but she fails to make things any better as the two relationships both progress.
Martin leans into his age in It’s Complicated and embraces Adam’s enthusiasm to find love in his 50s, which is one of the film’s most endearing factors. Even with such a powerhouse cast, which also includes Alec Baldwin as Jane’s ex, Jake, Martin still makes himself known on-screen. The heartwarming yet realistic depiction of experiencing a love triangle later in life is a very different story for Steve Martin to take on, but he fits in beautifully.
It’s Complicated RComedyRomance Where to Watch
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It’s Complicated is a romantic comedy directed by Nancy Meyers, starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin. The film centers around a divorced woman who rekindles a romance with her ex-husband, while simultaneously embarking on a new relationship with a charming architect. The narrative explores themes of love, relationships, and the complexities of modern romance.
Director Nancy Meyers Release Date December 23, 2009 Cast Meryl Streep , Steve Martin , Alec Baldwin , John Krasinski , Lake Bell , Mary Kay Place Runtime 121 minutes Distributor(s) Universal Pictures Writers Nancy Meyers Main Genre Comedy Expand