Every Danny DeVito Movie Ranked Worst To Best
While actor Danny DeVito has made a huge impact on television, winning an Emmy and a Golden Globe for his role as Louie De Palma on the 1978 series "Taxi" as well as appearing as Frank Reynolds on the hit FX show "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," Danny DeVito has also had an incredible film career, not just in the field of acting, but also in producing and directing as well.
Throughout the span of his over 40-year career, DeVito has frequently collaborated with such heavy hitters as Tim Burton, Michael Douglas, and Jack Nicholson, frequently to great critical and financial success. But of all of his film acting roles, which are the great ones and which are uncharacteristic stumbles along the way? Read on to find out as we list every Danny DeVito movie ranked worst to best.
56. Christmas in Love (2004)
2004's "Christmas in Love" interweaves three romantic comedy stories that all take place in Gstaad, Switzerland. A divorced couple and their new spouses wind up at the same resort, a man dating a woman 30 years younger than him is outraged when his daughter begins dating an older man (Danny DeVito), and a woman wins a contest to spend her Christmas with her favorite actor, Ron Moss from "The Bold and the Beautiful."
This film and other films in the genre of cinepanettone are generally not liked by Italian critics, as they've been churning out the same plots and jokes year after year since 1983's "Vacanze di Natale." Add in the fact that since the entire film is in Italian, "Christmas in Love" features the English-speaking Danny DeVito being awkwardly dubbed over into Italian.
So if you're looking for a classic Danny DeVito performance, you should look elsewhere — Maybe a film that actually features his voice.
55. Going Ape! (1981)
When the wealthy circus performer Max Sabatini passes away, he wills his $5 million dollar estate to his circus-averse slacker son Foster (Tony Danza). The only catch is that in order to earn this vast fortune, he has to keep a trio of apes alive for two years. He is aided in this endeavor by the apes' oddball handler, Lazlo (Danny DeVito). However, the apes cause havoc on his relationship with his girlfriend Cynthia (Stacey Nelkin) and her mother Fiona (Jessica Walter). Plus, there's a trio of hitmen trying to kill the apes, so a zoological society can get the inheritance money instead.
Written and directed by Jeremy Joe Kronsberg, whose only other writing credit is the more-beloved 1978 orangutan classic "Every Which Way But Loose," the film earned Danny DeVito an award nomination early on in his career. Unfortunately, it was for "Worst Actor in a Supporting Role."
1981's "Going Ape!" was an attempt to cash in on the director's prior hit by tripling the number of apes, but it failed to catch any interest.
54. Head Office (1985)
When Jack Issel (Judge Reinhold) starts a new job at I.N.C. and quickly begins making his way up the corporate ladder despite being incredibly bad at his job, he wonders if maybe something fishy is going on and whether being the son of a senator has anything to do with it. Navigating around a surreal corporate world with employees played by Danny DeVito, Rick Moranis, Wallace Shawn, and Jane Seymour, Jack also finds some time to fall in love with the boss's liberal daughter Rachel Helmes (Lori-Nan Engler).
While 1985's workplace comedy "Head Office" accurately satirizes 80s corporate culture, it fails to actually be funny. The film juggles a lot of subplots that fizzle out or are ultimately unnecessary, initially providing an edgy energy that quickly gives way to underwhelming annoyance.
As an example of how uneven the film is, "Head Office" kills off its two most promising characters within the first twenty minutes of the film, including Danny DeVito. At least he got out of this mess early.
53. Look Who's Talking Now (1993)
The final installment in the "Look Who's Talking" trilogy trades out talking babies for talking dogs. Trouble piles up as Mollie Ubriacco (Kirstie Alley) loses her job, her husband James (John Travolta) is always away for work, and her kids Mikey and Julie (David Gallagher and Tabitha Lupien) bring two new dogs into the household. With Mikey's chaotic dog Rocks (Danny DeVito) and Julie's snooty dog Daphne (Diane Keaton) not getting along, as well as suspicions of extramarital affairs in the air, will this family be able to come together in time for Christmas?
Bizarrely mixing family-friendly talking dog comedy with a large subplot about cheating spouses, 1993's "Look Who's Talking Now" failed to connect with any audience. It completely failed at the box office making less than half of its $22 million budget and critics tore the movie to shreds.
With an amazingly low rating of 0% on Rotten Tomatoes, It turns out this Danny DeVito comedy is for the dogs.
52. Deck the Halls (2006)
In 2006's holiday comedy "Deck the Halls," Steve Finch (Matthew Broderick) gets into an ever-escalating series of mishaps and sabotages when his new neighbor Buddy Hall (Danny DeVito) moves in next door and decides to decorate his house for Christmas so extravagantly that it can be seen from space. As the two try to win their war on Christmas, they instead wind up ostracizing their families (Kristin Davis, Kristin Chenoweth, and Alia Shawkat).
This mean-spirited film tries to be a nasty but heartwarming Christmas classic, but mostly seems illogical and ill-conceived. Earning a single-digit score on Rotten Tomatoes, "Deck the Halls" was a critical and financial failure, grossing almost $4 million shy of its $51 million budget. Filled with bad slapstick, inane scenarios, and a largely disinterested cast, the film is one you'll definitely want to avoid.
If you're looking for a Danny DeVito film to watch during the holiday season, maybe watch "Batman Returns" instead.
51. Hotel Noir (2012)
A detective named Felix (Rufus Sewell) hides out in a hotel from pursuing killers. His story intersects with those of the rest of the hotel's inhabitants, including shower door salesman Eugene Portland (Danny DeVito), Sevilla, a maid in a superhero costume (Rosario Dawson), and lounge singer Hanna Click (Carla Gugino). Told in gorgeous black-and-white with various narrators and flashbacks, 2012's "Hotel Noir" attempts to tell a moody throwback to 1950s noir films.
However, the film doesn't quite pull it off. Criticized for its slow pace, convoluted storylines, and high school play-level dialogue and staging, "Hotel Noir" fails to make good use of its all-star cast, which also includes heavy-hitters like Malin Akerman, Robert Forster, and Mandy Moore. The film was later re-released in 2017 as "City of Sin" swapping out its black-and-white cinematography for color, which might just make the movie worse.
While you may think it might be an interesting Danny DeVito film to check out, you probably won't want to check-in to "Hotel Noir."
50. Just Add Water (2008)
When Ray Tuckby (Dylan Walsh) catches his wife cheating on him with his brother and learns that his son Eddie (Jonah Hill) is not his own, he is forced to rethink his stationary life. This is further compounded when his mother and sister die fighting over a lemon pie recipe. Reinvigorated by a conversation with gas station owner Merl (Danny DeVito), Ray decides to pursue a new romance and attempt to take down some local meth dealers.
Also featuring Justin Long and Melissa McCarthy in small roles, the 2008 comedy "Just Add Water" has plenty of good ingredients, but doesn't quite come together. The film was criticized for having a middling script that ineffectively juggled conflicting tones that inevitably led to a muddled story. With a slow pace and low-key performances, it's easy to lose interest.
49. What's the Worst That Could Happen? (2001)
When corrupt businessman Max Fairbanks (Danny DeVito) catches Kevin McCaffrey (Martin Lawrence) robbing his house, Fairbanks steals McCaffrey's lucky ring as payback. McCaffrey proceeds to team up with his fellow thieves, Berger (John Leguizamo) and Uncle Jack (Bernie Mac), to make Fairbanks's life absolutely miserable. An escalating cat-and-mouse game forms between the two, causing the annoyance of their respective romantic partners.
Despite featuring a strong cast that also includes Glenne Headly, Larry Miller, Nora Dunn, Carmen Ejogo, Richard Schiff, William Fichtner, and Ana Gasteyer, the various comedic stylings on display seemed to clash over a script that featured terrible and frequently tasteless jokes. The film was a critical and financial disaster, grossing over $20 million shy of its $60 million budget.
2001's "What's the Worst That Could Happen?" is an adaptation of Donald E. Westlake's novel of the same name which features the recurring criminal mastermind John Dortmunder, who is renamed Kevin McCaffrey for the film. Other notable Dortmunders have included Robert Redford in 1972's "The Hot Rock," George C. Scott in 1974's "Bank Shot," Paul Le Mat in 1982's "Jimmy the Kid," and Christopher Lambert in 1990's "Why Me?" You should just watch one of those instead.
48. Relative Strangers (2006)
In 2006's "Relative Strangers," psychologist Richard Clayton (Ron Livingston) discovers he was adopted and that his biological parents are low-class carnies, Frank (Danny DeVito) and Agnes Menure (Kathy Bates). They proceed to move in with him and wreak havoc on his relationship with his girlfriend (Neve Campbell), his future mother-in-law (Beverly D'Angelo), and his adoptive family (Bob Odenkirk, Edward Herrmann, and Christine Baranski).
Predictable and crass, the film seems like a cheap knock-off of 2000's "Meet the Parents." This isn't terribly surprising considering the writer and director of "Relative Strangers," Greg Glienna, made the original 1992 "Meet the Parents" which was the basis for the Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller franchise. Unlike the original "Meet the Parents," which had a darker tone, this film attempts to appeal to a broader audience with lackluster results.
47. The Comedian (2016)
Comic Jackie Burke (Robert De Niro) wishes to be known for his standup comedy, rather than a sitcom character he played ages ago. After taking his anger out on an audience member at one of his gigs, he is sentenced to do community service at a soup kitchen. There he meets Harmony Schiltz (Leslie Mann) who might just help him out of his slump.
Featuring Danny DeVito as Jackie's brother, as well as a large array of aging comedic actors like Charles Grodin, Cloris Leachman, and Billy Crystal, 2016's "The Comedian" is let down by a rambling script and uninspired directing. Bloated and unfunny, the film is a far cry from De Niro's previous standup comedy film "The King of Comedy." That film's director, Martin Scorsese, was initially rumored to direct "The Comedian" but he thankfully avoided this mess.
A film about an aging star overshadowed by his past, "The Comedian" is overshadowed by a much better past filmography from everyone involved.
46. Even Money (2006)
2006's "Even Money" follows multiple gambling-addicted characters as their lives intersect in ways in which they are completely unaware. Novelist Carolyn Carver (Kim Basinger) spends her family's money on casinos when she's supposed to be writing, magician Walter (Danny DeVito) uses his tips to make ill-conceived bets, and Clyde Snow (Forest Whitaker) asks his younger brother Godfrey (Nick Cannon) to throw a basketball game so that he can pay off his gambling debts to a criminal named Victor (Tim Roth).
Critics slammed the film for its heavy-handed moral message, unlikeable cast of characters, and overly convoluted plot, unfavorably comparing it to the similarly structured 2004 film "Crash." Despite an all-star cast that also includes Ray Liotta, Carla Gugino, and Kelsey Grammer, "Even Money" only played in 19 theaters barely grossing over $100,000.
45. Screwed (2000)
Tired of being screwed over by his millionaire boss Virginia Crock (Elaine Stritch), chauffeur Willard Fillmore (Norm Macdonald) teams up with his friend, chicken restaurant owner Rusty P. Hayes (Dave Chappelle), to orchestrate a plan to kidnap her dog for a million-dollar ransom. However, the plan goes awry, giving the impression that Willard himself was kidnapped. Things continue to spiral as their plan gets more elaborate to compensate, eventually involving the aid of a morbid mortician named Grover Cleaver (Danny DeVito).
Despite featuring a competent comic cast, which also includes a young Sarah Silverman, the 2000 film "Screwed" suffers due to its underwhelming script, low production values, and amateurish direction. The writing and directing team had previously written hits like "Ed Wood," "The People vs. Larry Flynt," and "Man on the Moon" and would go on to write "1408," "Goosebumps," and "Dolemite Is My Name," but it seems like they couldn't quite carry a movie on their own.
Do yourself a favor and don't screw yourself over by watching this terrible Danny DeVito film.
44. The Oh in Ohio (2006)
Jack (Paul Rudd) and Priscilla Chase (Parker Posey) have been experiencing sexual problems in their marriage. In order to fix them, they decide to separate and pursue other means of satisfaction. Jack begins sleeping with his student Kristen Taylor (Mischa Barton) and bragging about it to his co-worker Coach Popovich (Keith David) while Priscilla takes classes with Alyssa Donahue (Liza Minnelli) and experiments with technology with some help from Justine (Heather Graham). Priscilla eventually winds up in a relationship with businessman Wayne Sianidis (Danny DeVito). Will these romantic entanglements help Jack and Priscilla or only make things worse?
It certainly turned out worse for the film itself. Critics and audiences alike did not care for the 2006 comedy, citing a meandering, lifeless plot that fails to come together. The cast does their best to elevate the material, but there just isn't enough there to build to a satisfying climax. The film also failed to perform at the box office, only making a little over $640,000, coming nowhere close to its $5 million budget. Sadly, "The Oh in Ohio" is an unsatisfying Danny DeVito experience.
43. Junior (1994)
When geneticist Alex Hesse (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Dr. Larry Arbogast (Danny DeVito) lose funding for their new fertility drug, they decide to test it out on their own. After successfully becoming pregnant, Hesse decides he wants to keep the baby and struggles to navigate the brand new world of being the world's first pregnant man while also starting a relationship with his ovum donor Dr. Diana Reddin (Emma Thompson), and keeping all of it a secret.
Hoping for the same success of DeVito and Schwarzenegger's previous collaboration "Twins," their 1994 follow-up "Junior" failed to deliver. The ill-conceived comedy only grossed a little over half of its budget back. While some critics enjoyed Schwarzenegger's game performance as a pregnant man, many felt there was just not enough substance to sustain an entire film.
However, if you want to watch a bodybuilder building a body, then "Junior" just might be the film for you.
42. When in Rome (2010)
When Beth Martin (Kristen Bell) flies to Rome to be the maid of honor at a wedding, Beth meets and falls for the best man Nick Beamon (Josh Duhamel). After mistakenly thinking she saw him kiss another woman, Beth drunkenly steals coins from a magic fountain in a desperate attempt to find love. She soon finds herself pursued by the four men who initially threw the coins into the fountain: a street magician, Lance (Jon Heder), the owner of a sausage company, Al (Danny DeVito), a self-absorbed model, Gale (Dax Shepard), and an Italian painter, Antonio Donatello (Will Arnett). When things start to go well with Nick, it's revealed that he might be under the spell as well.
2010's romantic comedy "When in Rome" boasts a fun comedic cast with a magically zany premise. Unfortunately, the film doesn't quite live up to its potential with critics dismissing it as being unfunny and full of exaggerated cliches. However, some people seemed to enjoy it, as while it wasn't exactly a box office smash, it did at least manage to nearly double its $28 million budget. While taking a dive into "When in Rome" might not result in true love, there might be some things to at least like.
41. The Good Night (2007)
2007's "The Good Night" follows commercial jingle musician Gary Shaller (Martin Freeman) as he struggles to deal with his real life by escaping into his dreams. In the real world, his relationship with his girlfriend Dora (Gwyneth Paltrow) is strained as is his relationship with his business partner Paul (Simon Pegg). But with the help of lucid dreaming expert Mel (Danny DeVito), he is able to spend more time in his dreams with his imaginary love Anna (Penélope Cruz). Reality and fantasy collide when Gary learns that Anna actually exists and he has the opportunity to meet her.
The writing and directorial debut of Jake Paltrow, Gwyneth's brother, "The Good Night" shows the telltale signs of a first-time effort. The plot meanders and characters have conversations that are not as deep as they are trying to be. A decent cast and some interesting visuals don't do much to help connect the viewer to the story being told. If you're looking for the best Danny DeVito film, you might just want to sleep on this one.
40. Renaissance Man (1994)
After losing his job, former advertising executive Bill Rago (Danny DeVito) finds himself employed at U.S. Army training base teaching English classes. Despite Rago initially not wanting to do the job and finding it hard to connect with his students, a shared love for Shakespeare sparks a passion in both Rago and his class. With the pressure on Drill Sergeant Cass (Gregory Hines) and Captain Tom Murdoch (James Remar) for the class to either graduate or be discharged, Rago and his students kick into high gear.
Directed by Penny Marshall, the 1994 comedy "Renaissance Man" is incapable of putting forth any new ideas. This by-the-numbers film attempts to make you laugh and warm your heart by hitting all the same beats that previous underdog teacher films like "Dead Poets Society" had done better. Only grossing a little over $24 million against its $40 million budget, the film was also a box office disaster.
39. House Broken (2010)
Tired of putting up with his slacker children, Tom Cathkart (Danny DeVito) packs up and leaves with his wife Mary (Katey Sagal) to a cabin in the woods. Now his not-too-bright adult children Eliot (Ryan Hansen) and Quinn (Skyler Stone) have to learn to fend for themselves while still pursuing their dreams of starting a film company. Along the way, they encounter humorous obstacles and a pair of love interests in grocery store clerk Sarah (Caitlin Crosby) and the cheerleader next door Suzy Decker (Brie Larson).
2010's "House Broken" is the kind of movie you'd find at the bottom of a DVD bargain bin. The plot is only there as an excuse to shove in as many unfunny juvenile jokes as possible. The actors seem to be having fun, but the movie never really comes together into anything memorable. Though it does have a scene of Brie Larson doing a cartwheel into the side of a firetruck.
If any of that sounds interesting to you, then you might enjoy "House Broken." Otherwise, leave it at the bottom of the bargain bin.
38. Wise Guys (1986)
Harry Valentini (Danny DeVito) and Moe Dickstein (Joe Piscopo) work for mob boss Anthony Castelo (Dan Hedaya) doing the minor jobs no one else wants to do. In an attempt to get further up the ladder, when they are asked to make a bet on a horse race for their boss, they change the bet because their boss has a bad habit of picking the wrong horse. Unfortunately, they didn't realize the race was rigged and now they owe a lot of money to the mafia. They are each separately offered a deal to kill the other one to pay off their debts. Now they are on the run from the mob and each other.
This 1986 mobster comedy directed by Brian De Palma received mixed reviews with some praising DeVito's comedic perfection while others criticized Piscopo's more underwhelming approach. Some found "Wise Guys" a fun comedy lampooning gangster films, while others found the jokes weak and cliched.
Either a humorous tale of loveable goofballs or a mediocre blip in a better director's career, at the very least it seems like "Wise Guys" features a delightful performance by Danny DeVito.
37. Drowning Mona (2000)
When Mona Dearly (Bette Midler) drives into a lake after her car's brakes have been tampered with, it's up to police chief Wyatt Rash (Danny DeVito) to figure out who might have murdered her. It's not going to be easy as it seems no one liked her. Could it be her cheating husband Phil (William Fichtner), his name-rhyming mistress Rona (Jamie Lee Curtis), Mona's dog-killing son Jeph (Marcus Thomas), his landscaping partner Bobby (Casey Affleck), or Bobby's fiance and Wyatt's daughter Ellie (Neve Campbell)? It seems like everyone has a motive.
The talented cast, which also includes Mark Pellegrino, Will Ferrell, and Melissa McCarthy seems to be having a good time with their despicable characters, but that didn't translate into a fun time for the people viewing the 2000 dark comedy "Drowning Mona." It also failed to heat up the box office, not even making back half of its budget.
While Danny DeVito and the rest of the cast are giving great performances, this mystery might be best left unsolved.
36. Other People's Money (1991)
In 1991's "Other People's Money," Danny DeVito plays Larry "The Liquidator" Garfield, a sleazy businessman who buys up small companies to sell for a larger profit. When he sets his sights on a small Rhode Island wire and cable company, the owner Andrew Jorgenson (Gregory Peck) sends his lawyer stepdaughter Kate Sullivan (Penelope Ann Miller) to interfere with Larry's despicable scheme. As Larry and Kate begin to battle over the ownership of the company, they also begin to wrestle with their developing romantic feelings for each other.
While the film features many talented performances, especially from DeVito, "Other People's Money" fails to reach the height of its comic potential and despite delivering an intriguing and thoughtful climactic scene, the film falls completely flat with its tonally jarring ending.
While "Other People's Money" is not one of Danny DeVito's worst films, but you still might be better off watching other people's movies.
35. Twins (1988)
In the 1988 comedy "Twins," an experiment to produce a genetically perfect child results in the birth of a pair of twins. One twin is placed into an orphanage and grows up to be a streetwise criminal named Vincent Benedict (Danny DeVito). The other is raised by a scientist (Tony Jay) and becomes a perfect specimen of intelligence and strength named Julius (Arnold Schwarzenegger). When Julius learns of the existence of his twin brother, he travels out into the world on his own for the first time in order to find him. Together, they catch up on thirty years of missing time while also attempting to get Vincent out of debt.
The unlikely pairing of DeVito and Schwarzenegger received mixed reviews from critics, some of whom thought the basic concept was not enough for an entire film, while others enjoyed their pleasant chemistry.
The studio had been worried about risking casting Schwarzenegger in a comedy, so in order to alleviate their fears, Schwarzenegger opted to work for no salary in exchange for a share of the film's profits. DeVito and the film's director Ivan Reitman soon followed with similar deals. This ultimately worked out when the film became the biggest hit of 1988, grossing over $200 million worldwide.
34. The Jewel of the Nile (1985)
This sequel to the 1984 hit "Romancing the Stone" sees novelist Joan Wilder (Kathleen Turner), adventurer Jack Colton (Michael Douglas), and smuggler Ralph (Danny DeVito) once again team-up. This time, they are searching the African desert to find the mythical Jewel of the Nile. Things get a bit more complicated when they learn the jewel is actually a man named Al-Julhara (Avner Eisenberg) who is prophesied to unite his people.
The 1985 sequel "The Jewel of the Nile" was rushed into production after its successful predecessor. Trouble behind the scenes led to multiple rewrites that frustrated the cast. While the film didn't turn out terribly, most critics noted that it didn't bring anything new to the table and felt like a watered-down version of the superior original, as well as leaning into racist stereotypes and jokes.
While the film financially did about as well as the original, a third film in the franchise never materialized.
33. Anything Else (2003)
In the 2003 comedy "Anything Else" wannabe writer Jerry Falk (Jason Biggs) is having problems with his longtime incompetent manager Harvey Wexler (Danny DeVito) and with his distant girlfriend Amanda Chase (Christina Ricci). Jerry turns to a potentially psychotic artist David Dobel (Woody Allen) who attempts to mentor and guide him, generally to disastrous results.
While the younger cast was praised for their committed performances, critics generally thought the film was an overlong rehashed amalgamation of previous better Woody Allen movies. Danny DeVito also came out ahead, with some critics saying his energetic role brought life to an otherwise slow film. Despite the attempt to appeal to a younger audience by casting Biggs, Ricci, and Jimmy Fallon, "Anything Else" failed to capture much attention, as the film didn't even earn back its $18 million budget.
Though "Anything Else" features a fun appearance by Danny DeVito, you might be better off watching anything else.
32. Jack the Bear (1993)
After the death of their mother, brothers Jack (Robert J. Steinmiller Jr.) and Dylan Leary (Miko Hughes) along with their father John (Danny DeVito) struggle to come together. John, a late-night horror movie host, does his best despite his drinking problem. However, things get even tougher when a feud stirs up between John and his neo-Nazi neighbor Norman Strick (Gary Sinise). John nearly loses his job, Jack loses his girlfriend Karen (Reese Witherspoon), and Dylan winds up being kidnapped.
Despite some critics thinking the twist turning this family drama into more of an action thriller was a bit of a misstep, Danny DeVito's heartwarming performance of a struggling father was touted as one of his best. The initial slower pace of 1993's "Jack the Bear" beautifully examines a family dealing with grief, while the latter half of the film deals with real-world monsters in comparison to the ones John plays on television. If you're on board for the genre shifts, "Jack the Bear" features Danny DeVito in a truly moving role.
31. Dumbo (2019)
A live-action remake of the 1941 animated classic of the same name, 2019's "Dumbo" tells the story of Dumbo, a circus elephant with very large ears who has the ability to fly. After attracting the attention of amusement park owner V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton), Dumbo is whisked away to a brand new theme park called Dreamland, along with his original owner Max Medici (Danny DeVito), his handler Hotl Farrier (Colin Farrell), and a trapeze artist Colette Marchant (Eva Green). Will this be Dumbo's chance to shine or will Dreamland turn out to be a nightmare?
Bringing along his signature visual style, Tim Burton directs a beautifully realized film that helps smooth over a rougher script. Many critics felt shifting the emphasis from the elephant to his human owners was a misstep that overcomplicated the original film's simple charms. Though many were excited by the reunion of Burton with his former collaborators, DeVito and Keaton, the film seemed to lack an emotional depth. Despite making over $350 million worldwide, the film was a financial failure once the film's large marketing budget was accounted for. Despite making you believe an elephant can fly, "Dumbo" fails to soar in other regards.
30. Girl Walks Into a Bar (2011)
A dentist named Nick (Zachary Quinto) meets a hitman Francine Driver (Carla Gugino) and asks her to kill his wife Karen (Lauren Lee Smith). She requests $20,000 upfront, so he leaves to see if his mobster patient Aldo (Danny DeVito) can loan him the money. Meanwhile, a photographer named Henry (Aaron Tveit) steals Francine's wallet which had a recording device, as Francine is actually an undercover cop. Under the watchful eye of her supervisor Sam Salazar (Josh Hartnett), Francine searches from bar to bar, bumping into a myriad of colorful characters, ranging from a hatcheck girl for an adult ping pong club (Rosario Dawson), a bone-obsessed ex-con (Robert Forster), and Francine's ex-husband (Gil Bellows).
Initially distributed by YouTube as an internet-only release, 2011's "Girl Walks Into a Bar" features a wild array of subplots, some of which work better than others. The strong cast helps smooth over the rougher patches and its multiple storylines mean that if you're not into the current one, a different one will be along shortly. However, some reviewers complained of its ultimately unsatisfying ending.
An interesting attempt to disrupt the distribution system, "Girl Walks Into a Bar" is a fun film even if it lacks a solid punchline.
29. All the Wilderness (2014)
The 2014 drama "All the Wilderness" follows teenager James Charm (Kodi Smit-McPhee) as he struggles to deal with the loss of his father. His worried mother Abigail (Virginia Madsen) sends him to a psychologist, Dr. Pembry (Danny DeVito), but James finds more comfort with his new friends he meets while living on the streets, Harmon (Evan Ross) and Val (Isabelle Fuhrman).
While many reviews mentioned the film's lack of a plot and reliance on coming-of-age clichés, first-time writer and director Michael Johnson was praised for the moody visuals and overall tone of "All the Wilderness." This poetic style was complemented by nuanced performances from the entire cast (particularly the young Smit-McPhee), as well as its top-notch soundtrack.
While it's a familiar story of a boy coming to grips with grief, "All the Wilderness" tells it in a beautiful and unique way that conveys its emotions through visuals more than story.
28. Johnny Dangerously (1984)
Johnny Kelly (Michael Keaton) adopting the alias Johnny Dangerously begins to work for the mob boss Jocko Dundee (Peter Doyle) to help support his ailing mother (Maureen Stapleton) and his District Attorney aspiring brother Tommy (Griffin Dunne). His biggest obstacles are the current District Attorney, Burr (Danny DeVito), and rival gangster Danny Vermin (Joe Piscopo).
The 1984 comedy "Johnny Dangerously" was commended for its pitch-perfect parody of 1930's gangster movie tropes and clichés. However, some critics thought that its constant stream of jokes was either tiresome, too silly, or maybe even a little too clever for its own good. The comedic talent involved in the film also includes a cast featuring Marilu Henner, Richard Dimitri, Ray Walston, and Dom DeLuise, as well as an original song written and performed by "Weird Al" Yankovic called "This is the Life."
If you're looking for an hour and a half of visual gags and funny dialogue, "Johnny Dangerously" is just the film for you.
27. Space Jam (1996)
Alien theme park Moron Mountain needs a new attraction, so owner Swackhammer (Danny DeVito) sends his miniature minions, the Nerdlucks, to kidnap the Looney Tunes. In an effort to deflect them, Bugs Bunny (Billy West) challenges them to a basketball game. The Nerdlucks agree and travel to earth to steal the talent from NBA all-stars Charles Barkley, Shawn Bradley, Patrick Ewing, Larry Johnson, and Muggsy Bogues. Now the Looney Tunes will need help to defeat these new powerful Monstars, so they grab basketball legend Michael Jordan, only to discover he no longer plays the game.
1996's family comedy "Space Jam" features state-of-the-art animation seamlessly spliced together with a live-action cast that includes Wayne Knight, Bill Murray, and Larry Bird. Despite some reviews that criticized the movie for basically being an extended commercial, many couldn't help but enjoy the zany animation and likability of its NBA stars. The film was a huge financial success as well, making over $230 million at the box office and reportedly earning $6 billion in further merchandising. If you're looking for some animated Danny DeVito fun, then toon in to the 90s classic "Space Jam."
26. Death to Smoochy (2002)
In the 2002 dark comedy "Death to Smoochy," children's television show host "Rainbow" Randolph Smiley (Robin Williams) is revealed to be receiving bribes to put kids on his show, leading to him being fired and his show being canceled. He is replaced by the genuinely nice Sheldon Mopes (Ed Norton), who plays a character named Smoochy the Rhino. His innocent nature is tested by his corrupt manager Burke Bennett (Danny DeVito), his affair with his producer Nora Wells (Catherine Keener), catering to mob boss Tommy Carter (Pam Ferris), and multiple sabotage attempts by Randolph Smiley.
This pitch-black comedy was too dark for some critics who found the film mean-spirited and poorly conceived. This negativity spread to the box office as well, only earning $8 million against its $50 million budget. However, director Danny DeVito's commitment to the nastiness of children's entertainment eventually turned the film into a cult classic that many feel was unappreciated at the time.
The brightly colored but deeply dark "Death to Smoochy" features Danny DeVito both in front of and behind the camera delivering one of his most unique films.
25. Mars Attacks! (1996)
1996's Tim Burton film "Mars Attacks!" shows how an alien invasion affects a wide variety of ridiculous characters. There are government officials like President James Dale (Jack Nicholson), his wife Marsha (Glenn Close), scientific advisor Donald Kessler (Pierce Brosnan), and the press secretary Jerry Ross (Martin Short). The media perspective is covered by news reporter Jason Stone (Michael J. Fox) and talk show host Nathalie Lake (Sarah Jessica Parker). The film also follows Las Vegas casino owner Art Land (Nicholson in a dual role), his wife Barbara (Annette Bening), his employees ex-boxer Byron Williams (Jim Brown) and Tom Jones, as well as one of his customers (Danny DeVito).
Also featuring Lukas Haas, Natalie Portman, Lisa Marie, Pam Grier, and Jack Black, "Mars Attacks!" is an absolutely star-studded homage to classic 1950s B-movies like "Plan 9 from Outer Space." Some critics found this similarity to less-than-great sci-fi films a little too extreme, leading to an uneven and unfunny picture, while others loved the big budget take of a generally low budget genre.
You'll have to decide for yourself whether this Danny DeVito film is a satirical masterpiece or a bad B-movie with A-list talent.
24. Hoffa (1992)
Directed by Danny DeVito, 1992's "Hoffa" tells the story of how Jimmy Hoffa (Jack Nicholson) rose to become the president of the Teamsters union, got involved with the mafia boss Carl D'Allesandro (Armand Assante) along with his right-hand man Bobby Ciaro (Danny DeVito), and was ultimately betrayed by fellow teamster Petey Connelly (John C. Reilly) eventually leading to Jimmy Hoffa's mysterious disappearance.
While the film was criticized for its non-linear structure and loose telling of the facts by writer David Mamet, Danny DeVito's direction received high praised. However, Jack Nicholson's performance received mixed reviews, leading to him being nominated for best actor by the Golden Globes while also being nominated for worst actor by the Razzies. He won neither. However, his incredible makeup earned the film an Oscar nomination.
For Danny DeVito's acting and directorial take on a biographical film that earned wildly varied award nominations, be sure to check out "Hoffa."
23. Wiener-Dog (2016)
Following a small dachshund through his several owners, 2016's "Wiener-Dog" tells the stories of a pair of parents (Tracy Letts and Julie Delpy) attempting to cheer up their cancer-diagnosed son (Keaton Nigel Cooke), a veterinary nurse (Greta Gerwig) going on a road trip with her old high school friend (Kieran Culkin), a struggling screenwriter (Danny DeVito) who gets into an explosive confrontation with the school where he teaches, and a woman (Zosia Mamet) asking for money from her elderly grandmother (Ellen Burstyn) for her conceptual artist boyfriend (Michael Shaw).
A semi-sequel to writer-director Todd Solondz's "Welcome to the Dollhouse," this darkly comedic anthology won over critics who loved its critiques of the film and art world and its purposefully off-putting dark humor. Many were particularly enthralled with Danny DeVito's section of the film, citing it as the best story. However, viewers found the film a little too depressing and cruel for their tastes.
If you're in the mood for a deliciously dark Danny DeVito comedy, then this film just might be a wiener. Sorry ... winner.
22. The Lorax (2012)
Ted Wiggins (Zac Efron) travels outside of his artificial city of Thneedville to find a real tree to hopefully impress his crush, Audrey (Taylor Swift). He finds a desolate wasteland inhabited by a mysterious man named the Once-ler (Ed Helms) who tells him the story of how he cut down all of the trees despite protests from the forest's guardian, the small orange and yellow Lorax (Danny DeVito). It's now up to Ted to attempt to fix the Once-ler's mistake, but he will have to deal with Thneedville's greedy mayor Aloysius O'Hare (Rob Riggle) first.
Based on the classic Dr. Seuss novel of the same name, 2012's "The Lorax" brings the Seussian world to colorful 3D animated life. While critics appreciated the attempt to deliver an environmental message to children, they found it generally got buried in an overcomplicated Hollywood plotline. Some criticism was also generated by the film's controversial marketing campaign, which included featuring the characters in a Mazda commercial which seemed to go against the movie's primary message.
However, the film itself was a hit with children and families, earning over $340 million worldwide and making it the highest-grossing Illumination and Dr. Seuss film at the time.
21. Throw Momma From the Train (1987)
Larry Donner (Billy Crystal) can't write the opening sentence of his new book due to his anger at his ex-wife Margaret (Kate Mulgrew) who stole his last novel and became a bestselling author. His frustration is also seeping into the writing class he teaches, leading to one of his students, Owen Lift (Danny DeVito), attempting to help Larry out. After presumably murdering Margaret, Owen asks Larry to help him kill his overbearing mother (Anne Ramsey).
Other than a made-for-TV movie called "The Ratings Game" and a handful of television episodes, the 1987 film "Throw Momma From the Train" was the directorial debut of Danny DeVito who infused the Alfred Hitchcock-inspired plot with plenty of zany comedy. Critics thought that the dark comedy wasn't quite as dark as it could be, but the strong comedic chemistry between DeVito and Crystal smoothed over the film's rougher edges. If you're looking for a murderous comedy with a surprisingly soft center, then it's all aboard for "Throw Momma From the Train."
20. Living Out Loud (1998)
In the 1998 dramedy "Living Out Loud," Judith Moore (Holly Hunter) tries to figure out what to do with her life after her husband Robert (Martin Donovan) leaves her for another woman. With the help of her friend, nightclub singer Liz Bailey (Queen Latifah), and the relationship she begins to form with her building's elevator operator, Pat Francato (Danny DeVito), Judith finds that she just might be able to start living again.
A free-flowing slice of life film, "Living Out Loud" received praise for its performances, but criticism for its lack of structure and pace, as well as its somewhat unoriginal premise. Though the plot wanders, the film does feature many great scenes including a particularly fun dance scene. Plus, the chemistry between Hunter and DeVito is thoroughly engaging.
19. Heist (2001)
When professional thief Joe Moore (Gene Hackman) is caught on camera during a jewelry store robbery, he decides to retire and sail away with his wife Fran (Rebecca Pidgeon). Joe's fence Mickey Bergman (Danny DeVito) has other ideas. He wants Joe to pull off another heist or he won't pay him for his last one. So Joe is forced to do one last job with his team which consists of Bobby Blane (Delroy Lindo), "Pinky" Pinkus (Ricky Jay), and Bergman's nephew Jimmy Silk (Sam Rockwell).
The 2001 crime thriller "Heist" wowed critics with its fun cast and writer-director David Mamet's terrific dialogue, even if the plot sometimes strained credulity. The film failed to earn its money back at the box office, but went on to become a rental store hit making over $70 million. Featuring a great game of cat and mouse by Hackman and DeVito, "Heist" is a twist-packed thrill ride.
18. Solitary Man (2009)
2009's "Solitary Man" follows Ben Kalman (Michael Douglas) whose declining health leads him to make poor decisions that lead to his wife Nancy (Susan Sarandon) divorcing him and his daughter Susan (Jenna Fischer) disowning him. Things get even worse when he sleeps with Allyson Karsch (Imogen Poots), the daughter of his new girlfriend Jordon (Mary-Louise Parker). Along the way, he goes to work for his school friend Jimmy Marino (Danny DeVito) and tries to mentor an awkward college student, Daniel Cheston (Jesse Eisenberg).
Despite being a financial bomb only making a little over a third of its budget back, "Solitary Man" won over critics with Michael Douglas's fascinating performance of a truly despicable character. Backed by a strong supporting cast, the film is an interesting character study of the dangers of living every day like its your last. An enjoyable film about an unlikeable character, "Solitary Man" is certainly worth checking out.
17. The One and Only Ivan (2020)
Inspired by a real-life gorilla and based on the novel by K.A. Applegate, 2020's "The One and Only Ivan" tells the story of a gorilla named Ivan (Sam Rockwell) who is raised in a small circus in a mall by his owner Mack (Bryan Cranston). The Big Top Mall also features other animals like the elephant Stella (Angelina Jolie), the poodle Snickers (Helen Mirren), the chicken Henrietta (Chaka Khan), the rabbit Murphy (Ron Funches), and the seal Frankie (Mike White), but Ivan's best friend is a stray dog named Bob (Danny DeVito) who constantly sneaks into his enclosure. With the addition of a new elephant Ruby (Brooklynn Prince) and a newfound love for painting, Ivan begins to wonder if this small circus is big enough for him.
While the film attempts to lessen the harsher aspects of the true story and the novel, "The One and Only Ivan" still tells a captivating and emotionally moving story that pleased critics and audiences alike. The all-star animal cast is beautifully realized with impressive CGI that earned it an Oscar nomination for best visual effects. Skip "Look Who's Talking Now." This is the Danny DeVito dog movie you'll want to watch.
16. Tin Men (1987)
After getting into a car accident, competing aluminum siding salesmen Ernest Tilly (Danny DeVito) and B.B. Babowsky (Richard Dreyfuss) find themselves caught up in a revenge-fuelled series of escalating misdeeds, ultimately culminating in Babowsky successfully seducing and having an affair with Tilly's wife Nora (Barbara Hershey). Things get even more complicated when Babowsky starts to develop real feelings for Nora while the law begins cracking down on both Tilly and Babowsky's less-than-honest salesmanship techniques.
Written and directed by Barry Levinson, the 1987 comedy "Tin Men" won over many critics with its delightful dialogue, realistic characters, and faithful recreation of the 1960s time period. Though the plot is occasionally secondary, the film is filled with humorous scenes and strong character development that come together to make a wonderfully entertaining film. Star performances by Danny DeVito and Richard Dreyfuss will sell you on bringing "Tin Men" into your home for a proper viewing.
15. Man on the Moon (1999)
1999's "Man on the Moon" tells the true story of comedian Andy Kaufman (Jim Carrey) who delighted television audiences as Latka in the sitcom "Taxi" but confused and confounded others with his elaborate hoaxes, anti-humor standup routines, and bizarre villainous wrestling performances. Joining him along the way are his agent George Shapiro (Danny DeVito), his creative partner Bob Zmuda (Paul Giamatti), and his girlfriend Lynne Margulies (Courtney Love). However, Kaufman's eccentric career is cut short when he is diagnosed with cancer.
Featuring a Golden Globe-winning performance by Jim Carrey (which was later documented in the 2017 film "Jim & Andy"), "Man on the Moon" received rave reviews for its lead performance, its subtle playing with the audience, and for featuring most of the "Taxi" cast including Danny DeVito, Marilu Henner, Christopher Lloyd, Carol Kane, and Judd Hirsch.
While the film failed at the box office barely making half of its budget back, the film's legacy, much like its subject, lived on.
14. The Big Kahuna (1999)
Three industrial lubricant salesmen wait in a hotel room for a trade convention to end, so that they can pitch their product to a potential client that could turn their company around. While they wait, recovering alcoholic Phil Cooper (Danny DeVito) and aggressive businessman Larry Mann (Kevin Spacey) attempt to teach the young religious Bob Walker (Peter Facinelli) the tricks of the trade.
Based on a stage play, 1999's "The Big Kahuna" retains the intimate style of the theater, focusing almost entirely on these three characters as they have various conversations in a singular hotel room. Luckily, the performances and the dialogue are strong enough to keep you interested, shifting from incredibly comedic to intensely dramatic with ease. While its hard to put aside the controversy of lead actor Kevin Spacey now, at the time the strong script and performances resulted in critical acclaim
13. Batman Returns (1992)
This sequel to 1989's "Batman" sees director Tim Burton and actor Michael Keaton returning to continue the story of the famous caped crusader. This time around, the deformed Oswald Cobblepot aka The Penguin (Danny DeVito) teams up with the shady businessman Max Shreck (Christopher Walken) to run for mayor and take over Gotham City, so that Shreck can build a controversial power plant. When Shreck's secretary Selina Kyle (Michelle Pfeiffer) discovers their evil plans, Shreck attempts to kill her. Instead, she survives and becomes Catwoman.
1992's "Batman Returns" takes all of the creative force behind the original and turns it up to eleven. Featuring an amazing score by Danny Elfman, beautiful set design and makeup, and incredible performances by its mostly villainous cast, the film was a huge success at the box office and a hit with critics as well.
One of Danny DeVito's best films with Tim Burton and one of the best comic book films ever made, "Batman Returns" is a story you will want to return to again and again.
12. Romancing the Stone (1984)
Romance novelist Joan Wilder (Kathleen Turner) finds herself mixed up in a real adventure when her sister Elaine (Mary Ellen Trainor) is kidnapped and held for ransom by smugglers Ralph and Ira (Danny DeVito and Zack Norman). Joan heads to Columbia to deliver a treasure map in exchange for her sister, but winds up running into another smuggler, Jack T. Colton (Michael Douglas), who convinces her to search for the treasure themselves in addition to rescuing her sister.
Directed by Robert Zemeckis, 1984's "Romancing the Stone" was a hit, being called a more enjoyable "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" with an exciting adventure, enjoyable comedy, and delightful chemistry between the two leads. The film did well enough that a sequel, "The Jewel of the Nile" was rushed into production and released the following year.
If you're looking for a romantic comedy adventure with Danny DeVito providing some wonderful comic relief, then look no further than the classic film "Romancing the Stone."
11. The War of the Roses (1989)
Lawyer Gavin d'Amato (Danny DeVito) tells one of his clients about the worst divorce case he ever witnessed between his friend Oliver Rose (Michael Douglas) and his wife Barbara (Kathleen Turner). Their romance began fairly normally but after time grew into bitterness, hatred, and eventually increasingly complex physical assaults and possible pet murder. Destroying their marriage and their house, the Roses may also wind up destroying themselves entirely.
Actor and director Danny DeVito reunites with his "Romancing the Stone" co-stars for this incredibly dark comedy that received rave reviews for its pitch-black humor and inventive camerawork which were quickly becoming a trademark for DeVito's directorial efforts. Utilizing Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner's chemistry formed from their two prior works together, this film flips that energy on its head for some delightfully devious fun.
As much of a hilarious comedy as it is a dark cautionary tale, 1989's "The War of the Roses" is one of imaginative director Danny DeVito's best.
10. Jumanji: The Next Level (2019)
The teenagers from 2017's "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" once again find themselves inside the video game Jumanji, but this time Spencer Gilpin (Alex Wolff) has accidentally brought along his grandfather Eddie (Danny DeVito) and Eddie's former business partner Milo Walker (Danny Glover). Spencer finds himself in the avatar of Ming Fleetfoot (Awkwafina), Eddie is Dr. "Smolder" Bravestone (Dwayne Johnson), Milo is "Mouse" Finbar (Kevin Hart), and Fridge Johnson (Ser'Darius Blain) is Professor Shelly Oberon (Jack Black), while Martha Kaply (Morgan Turner) and Alex Vreeke (Colin Hanks) return as their characters Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan) and "Seaplane" McDonough (Nick Jonas).
The 2019 sequel "Jumanji: The Next Level" ups the stakes, increases the characters, and shuffles the cast around with body-swapping hilarity. Critics loved the heartfelt comedy-adventure even better than the original with its fresh fun concepts, capable cast, and well-paced story. While the pandemic forced the film out of theaters, drive-in theaters helped push the film into a financial success, making over $800 million worldwide.
"Jumanji: The Next Level" is a film that proves a sequel can be better than the original, but maybe you need to cast Danny DeVito or at least have The Rock imitating him.
9. Get Shorty (1995)
When mob boss "Bones" Barboni (Dennis Farina) sends loan shark "Chili" Palmer (John Travolta) to collect a debt from horror movie producer Harry Zimm (Gene Hackman), Chili sees his way out of the mob and into the movie business. He's soon utilizing his unique skills to pursue A-list movie actor Martin Weir (Danny DeVito) to star in a movie based on his gangster experiences, along with the help of Weir's B-movie ex-wife Karen Flores (Rene Russo).
Based on the novel by Elmore Leonard and directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, the combination of mobster movie and Hollywood satire gels together with a pitch perfect cast for 1995's "Get Shorty." Critics loved the witty script, the fast pace, and the entertaining performances, especially Danny DeVito's performance as a big-headed movie star.
The success of "Get Shorty" eventually led to the 2003 sequel "Be Cool," but despite featuring John Travolta and a cameo by Danny DeVito, it didn't quite reach the heights of the hilarious original.
8. The Rainmaker (1997)
The 1997 legal drama "The Rainmaker" follows struggling lawyer Rudy Baylor (Matt Damon) as he starts out working for ambulance chaser J. Lyman Stone (Mickey Rourke) before eventually starting his own practice with his co-worker Deck Shifflet (Danny DeVito). Their first big case is representing Dot Black (Mary Kay Place), the mother of Donny Ray (Johnny Whitworth) who is dying of leukemia after his insurance denies him a bone marrow transplant. Rudy finds himself up against the more experienced lawyer Leo Drummond (Jon Voight) and a pair of tough judges (Dean Stockwell and Danny Glover), while also attempting to begin a relationship with abused housewife Kelly Riker (Claire Danes).
Written and directed by Francis Ford Coppola, "The Rainmaker" is frequently cited as the best film adaptation of a John Grisham novel with its focus on characters and a surprising amount of honestly earned humor. A smart legal drama that doesn't let itself get bogged down in dry courtroom procedures, "The Rainmaker" charms as well as thrills.
7. Hercules (1997)
Disney's 35th animated film, the 1997 "Hercules" is a reimagining of Greek mythology focusing on the god Hercules (Tate Donovan). Separated from his parents Zeus (Rip Torn) and Hera (Samantha Eggar) by the power-hungry Hades (James Woods), Hercules grows up as a superpowered human, eventually learning that he has to prove himself as a hero before he can return to Olympus, the realm of the gods. Training with the satyr Philoctetes (Danny DeVito), Hercules will face multiple mythical monsters sent his way by Hades and his henchmen Pain (Bobcat Goldthwait) and Panic (Matt Frewer). Things get even more complicated when Hercules falls in love with Meg (Susan Egan), a woman indebted to Hades.
Balancing humor, heart, and great music, "Hercules" is a fantastic addition to the pantheon of animated Disney films that charmed adults and children alike with praise given to many of the performers, especially James Woods' fast-talking car salesman approach to Hades and Danny DeVito's grumpy goat mentor.
While not quite as successful and critically well-received as previous Disney films, "Hercules" still features the quality and care you'd expect from a classic Disney film.
6. Terms of Endearment (1983)
Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) has a tense relationship with her daughter Emma (Debra Winger). Aurora's abrasive attitude also extends to Emma's husband Flap Horton (Jeff Daniels) and Aurora's boyfriend Vernon Dalhart (Danny DeVito). Things begin to soften when she starts a new relationship with former astronaut Garrett Breedlove (Jack Nicholson) and her daughter begins having some life-changing events as well, including an affair with a banker, Sam Burns (John Lithgow).
Nominated for eleven Academy Awards and winning five, including Best Picture, 1983's "Terms of Endearment" was a huge success with its balance of comedy and tearjerker drama. While the film features Aurora and Emma having multiple romantic relationships, it's their own mother and daughter relationship that is the central heart of this incredibly moving film.
The film eventually received a sequel in 1996 called "The Evening Star" with Shirley MacLaine and Jack Nicholson reprising their roles, but it didn't quite capture the genuine heartfelt magic of the original.
5. Matilda (1996)
Based on the classic children's book by Roald Dahl, 1996's "Matilda" tells the story of six-year-old Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson), who grows up with her neglectful criminal parents Harry (Danny DeVito) and Zinnia (Rhea Perlman). She is also tormented by her abusive school principal Miss Agatha Trunchbull (Pam Ferris). All of this frustration builds to the point that Matilda develops the power of telekinesis. Using her newfound abilities, along with the help of her genuinely nice teacher Miss Jennifer Honey (Embeth Davidtz), Matilda begins to make a better life for herself and her fellow students.
Produced, directed, and narrated by Danny DeVito, "Matilda" faithfully translates the darkly comic tone of Roald Dahl's book into an inventive and magical film. While failing at the box office, the film received near universal critical acclaim and went on to become a children's movie classic, thanks to DeVito's wonderful direction and an amazing cast led by Mara Wilson's career-defining role.
If you're looking for Danny DeVito's best directorial effort, the fantastic family film "Matilda" tops the list.
4. Big Fish (2003)
Will Bloom (Billy Crudup) has grown up listening to the tall tales his father, Edward (Albert Finney), has seemingly made up about his life. When Will's mother Sandra (Jessica Lange) informs Will that Edward has been diagnosed with cancer, Will struggles to find the facts in his father's fiction. Featuring fantastical flashbacks to young Edward's (Ewan McGregor) interactions with a giant (Matthew McGrory), a witch (Helena Bonham Carter), a circus ringmaster and werewolf (Danny DeVito), and a poet turned criminal turned businessman (Steve Buscemi), as well as Edward meeting Will's eventual mother (Alison Lohman) and his time in the war, Will's attempts to uncover the truth might lead to even more magical revelations.
Directed by Tim Burton, 2003's "Big Fish" is a heartwarming mixture of large-scale inventive fantasy and small-scale family dynamics that audiences and critics adored. A film about how the stories we make up about ourselves can be just as revealing as the actual truth, "Big Fish" tells a multi-layered story that excites, entertains, and forms a strong emotional connection.
While Tim Burton and Danny DeVito have collaborated on many films, they have put their best work together in the absolutely wonderful "Big Fish."
3. Ruthless People (1986)
Businessman Sam Stone (Danny DeVito) has decided to kill his wife Barbara (Bette Midler), but is delighted to discover that she has been kidnapped and will be killed if he doesn't pay a ransom. With Sam refusing any of their demands, kidnappers Ken (Judge Reinhold) and Sandy Kessler (Helen Slater) have to figure out what to do with their new hostage. Meanwhile, Sam's mistress Carol Dodsworth (Anita Morris) along with her idiot boyfriend Earl Mott (Bill Pullman) attempt to blackmail Sam when they mistakenly think he's already killed Barbara.
From Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, the directors of "Airplane!," 1986's "Ruthless People" is a deliciously dark comedy with a cleverly structured script and delightfully despicable performances from its comedically talented cast. The film was also a financial success grossing over seven times its estimated $9 million budget.
Danny DeVito thrives in the world of dark comedies and "Ruthless People" is one of his absolute best.
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Randle McMurphy (Jack Nicholson) gets transferred from a prison farm to a mental institution and discovers that the conditions there are far worse. Witnessing the mistreatment of the patients (Danny DeVito, Christopher Lloyd, Brad Dourif) by the intimidating Nurse Mildred Ratched (Louise Fletcher), Randle attempts to stir up resistance against her with the help of a large mute Native American man nicknamed Chief (Will Sampson).
Nominated for nine Academy Awards and winning Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay Adapted from Other Material, Best Actor, and Best Actress, 1975's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" is an impressive artistic work featuring many great actors in their earliest roles. With both an audience and critic score of over 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, it's no surprise that the film has made its way onto many best of lists, including breaking the top 40 in AFI's 100 Years... 100 Movies.
Featuring a young Danny DeVito alongside an equally phenomenal cast, "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" is not only one of DeVito's greatest, but one of the best films of all time.
1. L.A. Confidential (1997)
Centering around three cops who work under Captain Dudley Smith (James Cromwell), 1997's "L.A. Confidential" tells the story of how the revenge-driven LAPD sergeant Edmund Exley (Guy Pearce), the physically violent officer Bud White (Russell Crowe), and fame-seeking sergeant Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey) all wind up on the same case. Expertly weaving together multiple plotlines that also include tabloid publisher Sid Hudgens (Danny DeVito) attempting to wrangle actor Matt Reynolds (Simon Baker) into a scandal and Bud White falling for Lynn Bracken (Kim Basinger), a prostitute given plastic surgery to look like a film star, "L.A. Confidential" is a tale of police and Hollywood corruption.
"L.A. Confidential" earned nine Academy Award nominations and won two, while also racking up over $125 million against its $35 million budget. Boasting a truly impressive Rotten Tomatoes score of over 95%, the film was praised for successfully adapting a presumed unadaptable novel with amazing performances across the board, especially for newcomers Pearce and Crowe.
A visual treat that doesn't shy away from focusing on its incredibly interesting characters, "L.A. Confidential" is a fantastic film featuring a phenomenal Danny DeVito performance that shoots it straight to the top of the best ever Danny DeVito films.