A Look At The Best Films Of Steve Martin
From The Jerk and The Man with Two Brains to Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
Steve Martin’s cinematic legacy is a testament to his unparalleled talent for blending humour with heart, creating films that are not only endlessly entertaining but also deeply resonant. While not every entry in his extensive filmography achieves the iconic status of classics like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” or “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” each movie possesses Martin’s unique ability to infuse offbeat charm and pathos that captivate audiences.
Martin’s foray into show business began with his role as a writer for The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour in the 1960s, where he honed his comedic skills before captivating audiences as a frequent host on Saturday Night Live. Renowned for his outlandish comic energy and offbeat humour, Martin quickly became a fixture of sold-out stand-up shows across the nation.
From stand-up to Hollywood
Transitioning from stand-up comedy to acting, Martin embarked on a cinematic journey that would leave an indelible mark on American comedy. From his breakout role in “The Jerk” to his memorable appearances in “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid,” “The Man with Two Brains,” and “Three Amigos,” Martin showcased his comedic versatility and charm on the silver screen.
Movie audiences first experienced Martin’s talent for big-screen comedy in 1979’s The Jerk. As the childlike adult Navin Johnson, Martin navigates through a series of hilarious misadventures in this beloved classic. Another early comedy great from Martin came in the form of 1983’s The Man With Two Brains.
This absurdist comedy sees Martin as a brilliant neurosurgeon entangled in a bizarre love triangle with a manipulative femme fatale. Martin’s comedic timing and chemistry with co-star Kathleen Turner make this film a standout in his repertoire.
Other must-see Steve Martin films include Three Amigos (1986), Leap of Faith (1992), L.A. Story (1991), and Bowfinger (1999). However, his best work would appear during a two-year period in the late 1980s with the release of Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.
Why is Planes, Trains and Automobiles Steve Martin’s best film?
Planes, Trains and Automobiles is adored by audiences for the brilliance of both John Candy and Steve Martin. In this touching drama, Martin takes on the role of Neal Page, an advertising executive fervently striving to reunite with his family for Thanksgiving following a business trip to New York. However, as fate would have it, inclement weather throws a wrench into his plans, leaving him begrudgingly paired with the amiable yet accident-prone Del Griffith (Candy).
The genius of writer-director John Hughes shines brilliantly in this buddy road trip adventure, transcending the confines of high school dramas to craft characters who are uniquely flawed yet undeniably sympathetic. Hughes’ storytelling skill is evident as he weaves a tale that resonates deeply with audiences, showcasing the complexities of human connection and the journey towards self-discovery.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles also showcases a different facet of Steve Martin’s talent, as he steps away from the existential anxieties and physical antics of his early career to deliver a nuanced portrayal of a middle-class everyman yearning to make it home to his family. Martin’s performance strikes a chord with viewers, offering a relatable depiction of the struggles and triumphs of the human experience.
Within the framework of this journey, audiences are treated to the vibrant dynamics between two of John Hughes’ most memorable characters, brought to life through the impeccable performances of Martin and Candy. As Neal and Del embark on both a physical and metaphorical journey, Martin and Candy deliver what could arguably be considered their finest on-screen portrayals, solidifying Planes, Trains and Automobiles as a timeless classic of cinematic storytelling.
