Adam Sandler has been a household name for comedy lovers since he first graced the “Saturday Night Live” stage. This November, Hulu is bringing a hearty selection of Sandler’s classics to its streaming service. Get ready for slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and songs that’ll stick in your head for days. Here’s the lineup of Sandler hits you can binge to your heart’s content:
1. “Billy Madison” (1995)
Dive back into the film that set the standard for Sandler’s unique blend of juvenile humor and endearing goofiness. “Billy Madison” is the tale of an immature heir forced to repeat grades one through twelve to earn his place in his father’s company. It’s an outlandish and hilarious journey through the school system that proves Sandler is in a class of his own. Beyond the laughs, the film is a celebration of second chances and has become a cult classic, influencing a generation of comedies that followed.
The tale of a hotel-heir with a propensity for stupidity may not have been a darling among critics, who often found Sandler’s brand of comedy too lowbrow, but it resonated with audiences, grossing over $26 million domestically. Its cultural impact is undeniable, having established Sandler’s career as a leading comic actor and spawned countless quotes and references that have permeated pop culture. The film’s success laid the groundwork for a new era of comedy that embraced the absurd and the juvenile, giving rise to a ‘Sandlerverse’ that would dominate the ’90s.
2. “8 Crazy Nights” (2002)
Animated Adam Sandler is just as funny as the live-action version, and “8 Crazy Nights” proves it. This holiday-themed movie combines Sandler’s humor with a story of redemption that tugs at the heartstrings. With musical numbers and a cast of colorful characters, this film showcases Sandler’s range as both a voice actor and a songwriter. It’s the perfect pick for a family movie night during the holiday season.
“8 Crazy Nights” is a unique entry in Sandler’s filmography — an animated musical that tackles the holiday season with a blend of irreverence and warmth. While critics were split on the film, it has since found a niche audience who appreciate its offbeat charm and Sandler’s musical creativity. It grossed a modest sum at the box office but has since become a cult holiday film, especially praised for bringing Jewish culture into the mainstream holiday movie conversation.
3. “The Waterboy” (1998)
Sandler brings the laughs in “The Waterboy” as Bobby Boucher, a socially inept, water-obsessed man who discovers a talent for tackling in football. The movie, which blends Sandler’s signature absurdity with sports drama, was a massive box office hit and remains a favorite for its quotable lines and memorable characters. It’s a feel-good movie that scores big with audiences looking for comedy with a side of heart.
“The Waterboy” was a box office touchdown for Sandler, earning over $160 million in the U.S. and ranking as one of his highest-grossing movies. Critics might have given it a lukewarm reception, but the film’s quotability, Sandler’s uproarious performance, and the underdog story struck a chord with a wide audience. It’s often cited as a favorite among Sandler’s fans and stands out for its memorable characters, contributing to the sports comedy genre in a significant way.
4. “The Wedding Singer” (1998)
“The Wedding Singer” pairs Sandler with Drew Barrymore in a romantic comedy set in the 1980s. Sandler’s portrayal of a jilted singer who finds a kindred spirit in Barrymore’s character resonated with audiences, making it one of his most beloved films. Its nostalgic soundtrack, hilarious moments, and sweet love story will have you reminiscing and smiling all at once.
Pairing Sandler with Drew Barrymore, “The Wedding Singer” became one of the definitive rom-coms of the ’90s, earning praise for its charm, humor, and the leads’ chemistry. Critics applauded Sandler’s relatively toned-down performance, which showcased his ability to blend humor with heart. The film was a box office success, grossing over $123 million worldwide and cementing itself as a nostalgic favorite with its retro setting and soundtrack that tapped into ’80s nostalgia.
5. “50 First Dates” (2004)
Reuniting Sandler with Barrymore, “50 First Dates” is a romantic comedy with a twist. Sandler plays a man who falls for a woman with short-term memory loss, meaning every date is a first impression. The film balances comedy with the realities of memory loss, wrapped in a sunny Hawaiian setting. It’s a testament to Sandler’s ability to evoke both laughter and tears, making it a standout in his filmography.
“50 First Dates” continued the winning streak for the Sandler-Barrymore duo, proving successful with audiences as it raked in over $120 million domestically. While critics had mixed opinions, the film is often highlighted for its unique premise and the heartfelt performance that Sandler delivers. It solidified Sandler’s foray into romantic comedies and sparked discussions around its portrayal of amnesia, contributing to both scientific debates and pop culture with the film’s unconventional love story.
6. “Funny People” (2009)
In a slight departure from his usual fare, “Funny People” allows Sandler to explore his dramatic side as a successful comedian who faces a health scare. Directed by Judd Apatow, this film delves into the complexities of life in comedy, balancing serious themes with humor. It’s a thought-provoking watch that offers insight into the behind-the-scenes world of stand-up comedy and film.
“Funny People” saw Sandler take on a more serious role, playing a version of himself to some extent. The film garnered mixed reviews but was praised for its introspective look at the life of a comedian facing mortality. With a box office collection of over $71 million globally, it didn’t match the commercial success of Sandler’s pure comedies but was respected for its deeper narrative and Apatow’s signature blend of humor and drama. The movie offered a meta-commentary on Sandler’s own career and stood out for its exploration of fame, legacy, and the personal cost of comedy.
From side-splitting hilarity to touching tales, Hulu has made sure to showcase Adam Sandler’s versatility as an actor. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or seeing them for the first time, Sandler’s unique brand of humor is sure to keep you entertained throughout November. So why not plan your next movie marathon with these Sandler favorites?
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