It’s crazy to think of the wild and varied career some long-time beloved talents in Hollywood have had.
Ben Stiller is definitely one, and while he may have started out through nepotism, there’s no doubt he also has talent and a unique vision.
Whether in front of the camera or behind it, comedy, drama, or any combination thereof, Stiller has put in some big performances.
You don’t get nearly 60 film credits to your name without exploring the range. This is how I ranked his movies against each other.
57.
that’s right (1989)
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Watching Ben and Jerry Stiller work together is special, as seen in this goofy mockumentary movie.
54.
I’m still here (2010)
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Ben Stiller appears as himself in a tense moment in a bizarre movie that was ultimately a big joke.
52.
starry sky and rabbit hutch (2004)
51.
heavyweights (nineteen ninety five)
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That’s not the premise, but considering how other things would have dealt with the weight issue, it could be a lot worse.
49.
highway to Hell (1991)
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Not only are Ben and Jerry Stiller in this movie, but also Anne Meara (Jerry’s wife, Ben’s mother) and Amy Stiller (Jerry’s daughter, Ben’s sister). I love a good effort from the whole family.
46.
To envy (2004)
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This movie is an underrated hit from Ben Stiller with a solid cast around him giving it a well-deserved boost.
43.
Empire of the Sun (1987)
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Stiller’s first time in a Spielberg film is definitely something to watch out for, and though it was early in his career, he held his own in this film based on the JG Ballard novel.
42.
The Marc Pease Experience (2009)
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This isn’t one of Stiller’s best known movies, but he did the best he could in the limited release film.
41.
the heartbreak boy (2007)
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Ben Stiller once again faces the guy desperately looking for a happy ending, only to jeopardize his chances with the decisions he makes. It’s not the best, it’s not the worst.
39.
your friends and neighbors (1998)
38.
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)
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Again, this one hits differently for fans of the story, young and old. I really enjoyed this, but it definitely didn’t have the same appeal as the first one, although it did have more engaging action.
37.
permanent midnight (1998)
36.
The suburbs (1999)
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Ben Stiller’s involvement in this movie isn’t great, but it’s full of funny jabs at the recording industry as it was.
33.
Nobody knows anything! (2003)
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A quick peaches cameo that’s hilarious if you enjoy the movie but forgettable if you don’t.
32.
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)
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With the second movie, not only did the comedy find its groove, but the franchise really exploded.
31
hubby halloween (2020)
Hubie. Glad. Whatever. Where is MY first anniversary? Hal L https://t.co/tR136qFV4Y
Netflix
hubby halloween is a cute Halloween movie for older kids in which Stiller plays a grumpy orderly… around Adam Sandler. Sounds familiar?
30
Along came Polly (2004)
29
hot chase (1987)
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Ben Stiller’s film debut was in hot chase, where he played Chris Honeywell, the guy who wins over Dan’s (John Cusack) girlfriend after losing the chance to spend the summer of his life with her.
28
school for scoundrels (2006)
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Nothing about this movie really struck me. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t overly memorable either, which can be said for a lot of mid-’00s rom-coms.
27
The cable boy (nineteen ninety six)
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Another Generation X hit, the gritty and dark film from actors known for their comedy definitely hit a nerve and has become more appreciated over time.
26
keeping the faith (2000)
25
Tenacious D in the choice of fate (2006)
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Ben Stiller may be the center guy on guitar in this one, but who doesn’t love the epic adventure that this movie is?
24
Meet the Fockers (2004)
23
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (2014)
18
Do not think twice (2016)
17
The watch (2012)
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A neighborhood watch banding together to avenge the death of a fallen co-worker is surprisingly moving and a solid Stiller moment.
14
While we are young (2014)
12
Night in the museum (2006)
eleven
Host: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
10
Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)
9.
The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)
8.
The real Tenenbaums (2001)
7.
Reality hurts (1994)
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Reality hurts It’s not just a good Ben Stiller movie, but also his directorial debut. He plays a good, sarcastic and uptight executive.
6.
the secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Four.
tropical thunder (2008)
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Another boundary-pushing acting/directing effort, Stiller shines as a hectic action star desperately trying to hang on to his 15 minutes.
3.
there is something about mary (1998)
1.
meet the parents (2000)
That’s me, but now it’s time to hear from you! What is your ranking (or at least your top five)? Dish in the comments!