Will Ferrell is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic comedic actors of our time. Known for his irreverent sense of humor and larger-than-life performances, Ferrell has cemented himself as a comedic legend. With his ability to make us laugh through absurd situations, memorable characters, and unexpected depth, Ferrell's body of work is as diverse as it is hilarious. Let’s take a look at some of his best—and not-so-great—films.
Ferrell has always had a knack for taking a character to the
extreme, whether it's through exaggerated emotions, bizarre situations, or his
larger-than-life physical comedy. His ability to bring seemingly outlandish
roles to life is what makes his performances so unforgettable. While some of
his roles are more grounded and serious than others, it’s clear that his
comedic timing and fearless willingness to embrace the absurd are what make him
so unique in Hollywood. Throughout his career, he’s managed to balance broad
comedy with moments of subtlety, which speaks to his incredible range as an
actor.
Potential Spoilers Ahead!
My Favorite Movie He Has Been In:
Elf (2003)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 85%
IMDb rating: 7.0/10
Where to watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
“Elf” is an undeniable holiday classic, and for me, it’s
Will Ferrell at his best. In this charming Christmas comedy, Ferrell plays
Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who ventures to New York City
to find his real father. The result is a heartwarming, hilarious film that
captures Ferrell’s signature blend of childlike wonder and over-the-top humor.
His portrayal of Buddy is as lovable as it is laugh-out-loud funny, and it’s
hard to imagine anyone else playing the role with such unbridled enthusiasm.
Buddy’s journey through the absurdities of New York City is
packed with hilarious moments, but it’s Ferrell’s perfect balance of innocence,
cluelessness, and earnestness that makes this movie unforgettable. Whether it’s
his enthusiasm for spreading holiday cheer or his genuine affection for his
newfound family, Ferrell brings an infectious charm to the screen. “Elf” has
become a holiday staple for a reason, and Ferrell’s performance is the heart of
it all.
One of the movie's most memorable moments is Buddy’s
innocent interactions with the world around him, such as his excitement over
“candy!” or the hilarious way he decorates his father’s office with Christmas
cheer. These moments allow Ferrell’s natural exuberance to shine through,
making the character's naivety endearing rather than annoying. The way Buddy
interacts with the people he meets, including his real father (played by James
Caan), is a testament to Ferrell’s ability to portray genuine emotion through a
comedic lens.
Moreover, “Elf” touches on themes of family, acceptance, and
belonging. Buddy, who has always felt like an outsider, finally discovers his
true identity and purpose. This journey of self-discovery, paired with
Ferrell’s warmth and humor, gives the film emotional depth, making it something
audiences return to year after year. It’s rare for a Christmas movie to achieve
such a blend of comedy, heart, and repeat-viewing value.
My rating:
I give “Elf” a 10/10. It’s one of the rare holiday films that’s as fun for
adults as it is for kids, and Ferrell’s performance is what makes it so
special.
My Favorite Movie He Has Been In That You May Not Have
Seen:
Stranger Than Fiction (2006)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 74%
IMDb rating: 7.6/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
While Will Ferrell is often known for his broad comedic
roles, “Stranger Than Fiction” is a beautiful departure that showcases his
range. In this offbeat dramedy, Ferrell plays Harold Crick, a man who begins
hearing a narrator describe his life as it unfolds, only to realize that the
narrator might be planning his death. It’s a quirky, thought-provoking story
that mixes humor with existential questions, and Ferrell’s performance is
grounded and surprisingly nuanced.
This film is a fantastic example of Ferrell’s ability to
show emotional depth while still delivering the comedic timing we all love. His
portrayal of Harold is subtly funny, and his character’s journey toward
self-discovery is both humorous and heartwarming. The film also features a
stellar supporting cast, including Maggie Gyllenhaal and Dustin Hoffman, but
it’s Ferrell who anchors the story with a perfect balance of melancholy and
humor.
“Stranger Than Fiction” stands out because it’s not the
typical Ferrell fare. It doesn’t rely on outrageous slapstick or absurdity,
which is where Ferrell is most often at his best. Instead, the film focuses on
the emotional journey of a man who realizes his life is not his own and that
he’s part of a larger narrative—one that may end tragically. Ferrell’s
understated performance here offers a contrast to his typical over-the-top
characters, showing that he can deliver humor with a touch of pathos. It’s a refreshing
take on his usual style, and the film itself is clever and original.
The supporting cast in this movie also elevates it, with
Maggie Gyllenhaal providing a grounded, quirky love interest and Dustin Hoffman
as a professor who helps Harold understand the mysterious narrator. These
performances allow Ferrell to shine in a different light, showing his
versatility as an actor. The film’s premise may sound strange, but it’s a
charming, thought-provoking film that is easily overlooked but deserving of
attention.
My rating:
I give “Stranger Than Fiction” an 7/10. It’s a unique film that blends quirky
humor with deep emotional beats, and Ferrell’s performance is a standout.
Don’t Waste Your Time With This Movie:
Zoolander 2 (2016)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 23%
IMDb rating: 4.7/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Let’s just say “Zoolander 2” didn’t live up to the hype.
While the first “Zoolander” became a cult classic, the sequel falls flat on its
face. Will Ferrell returns as Mugatu, but his performance feels more like a
rehash of his earlier work than a fresh take on the character. The plot is
convoluted, the jokes are stale, and the film lacks the charm that made the
first one so enjoyable. Despite the star-studded cast, including Ben Stiller,
Owen Wilson, and Kristen Wiig, the humor feels forced and unoriginal.
Ferrell, who usually excels in over-the-top roles, doesn’t
manage to bring much new to Mugatu, and the film's pacing and awkward humor
just don't hit the mark. The jokes that worked in the first film fall flat
here, and the attempts at wacky visual gags feel more like an afterthought than
an inspired choice. The film’s script struggles to capture the irreverence and
freshness of the original, leaving many fans disappointed by the lack of spark
and energy.
What’s even more frustrating is that “Zoolander 2” had the
potential to be a hilarious return to the world of high fashion, with its
iconic characters and satire. Instead, the film feels like a cash grab and a
poor attempt to recreate the magic of the first movie without bringing anything
new to the table. The humor is dated, the plot is predictable, and it lacks the
sharpness and wit that made “Zoolander” so memorable. It’s a missed opportunity
for Ferrell to shine in the role of Mugatu once again.
My rating:
I give “Zoolander 2” a 3/10. While Ferrell is still fun to watch, the film
itself is an uninspired, lackluster attempt to recapture the magic of the
original.
Honorable Mentions – More Ferrell Films to Check Out
If you’re looking to explore more of Will Ferrell’s best
performances, here are some honorable mentions worth checking out:
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 90%
IMDb rating: 7.2/10
Where to watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
The iconic comedy that launched Ferrell into superstardom, “Anchorman” is one
of the funniest films of the 2000s. Ferrell’s portrayal of Ron Burgundy, the
overconfident and clueless news anchor, is endlessly quotable and full of
absurd humor.
“Anchorman” is packed with hilarious lines, from “I’m kind
of a big deal” to “I love scotch.” Ferrell’s comedic timing is on full display,
and his ability to turn every scene into a laugh-out-loud moment is a testament
to his talent. Alongside his co-stars like Steve Carell and Paul Rudd, the
ensemble cast creates an unforgettable chemistry that makes the film a comedy
goldmine. “Anchorman” remains one of Ferrell’s most iconic films, and it’s hard
to imagine anyone else playing the role of Ron Burgundy with such hilarious
bravado.
Beyond its quotable one-liners, “Anchorman” is also a satire
of the news industry, poking fun at the superficiality and absurdity of the
media world. Ferrell’s portrayal of Burgundy as a clueless yet oddly
self-assured news anchor captures the essence of the clueless, misogynistic,
and self-obsessed 1970s TV culture. The film’s comedic critique of masculinity,
rivalry, and even the rise of women in the workplace is both timely and
timeless. Despite the film’s farcical elements, it remains a sharp satire wrapped
in ridiculousness, and Ferrell’s commitment to his role makes it a truly
unforgettable performance.
My rating:
I give “Anchorman” a 10/10. It’s a classic that continues to make people laugh
with its over-the-top characters and clever commentary on the media.
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 71%
IMDb rating: 6.6/10
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Ferrell’s portrayal of the NASCAR driver Ricky Bobby is another hilarious
example of his ability to play ridiculous characters with heart. The film is
packed with outrageous humor, and Ferrell’s chemistry with co-star John C.
Reilly makes it a classic in the world of sports comedies.
While “Talladega Nights” doesn’t reach the level of
“Anchorman,” it’s still a solid comedy, with Ferrell at his over-the-top best.
The movie parodies the world of NASCAR and its eccentric personalities, and
Ferrell’s portrayal of the cocky, self-absorbed Ricky Bobby is a great fit for
his comedic sensibilities. The outrageous situations he finds himself in, like
racing with his shirt off or having a tantrum in the middle of a race, are pure
Ferrell gold.
The film also excels due to the strong supporting cast,
including Sacha Baron Cohen as the flamboyant French driver Jean Girard. Cohen
and Ferrell have an excellent comedic dynamic, and their rivalry provides some
of the film’s funniest moments. The absurdity of the NASCAR world is perfectly
captured through Ferrell’s larger-than-life portrayal of Bobby, but the movie
also contains surprising moments of vulnerability. The relationships between
the characters, particularly the bond between Bobby and his best friend Cal
(Reilly), are surprisingly touching and add an emotional layer to the film that
elevates it beyond a typical sports comedy.
My rating:
I give “Talladega Nights” a 10/10. It’s fun, ridiculous, and memorable, with a
great supporting cast, even if it doesn’t hit the high comedic marks of
Ferrell’s other classics.
Step Brothers (2008)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 55%
IMDb rating: 6.9/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Another collaboration with John C. Reilly, “Step Brothers” follows two
middle-aged men who are forced to live together when their parents marry. The
film is filled with childish humor, but Ferrell and Reilly’s comedic timing
makes it a cult favorite.
“Step Brothers” is a perfect example of Ferrell’s ability to
bring juvenile characters to life with a strange but undeniable charm. The film
leans heavily into absurdity, with Ferrell and Reilly playing characters who
refuse to grow up, even as adults, causing chaos in their family life. While
the plot may sound thin, the hilarious dynamics between the two leads, coupled
with their hilarious escapades, make it impossible not to laugh. Ferrell and
Reilly’s performances are exaggerated and over-the-top, but they also manage to
find moments of genuine vulnerability beneath the madness.
One of the film’s most memorable aspects is its offbeat
humor, which embraces the ridiculousness of life and refuses to take itself
seriously. The absurdity of two grown men acting like children is taken to
ridiculous extremes, from their attempt at a business venture (the infamous
“Catalina Wine Mixer”) to their childish bickering and pranks. The film’s humor
is outrageous, and while it may not be for everyone, it has earned a loyal
following for its willingness to go all-in on the comedy. The dynamic between
Ferrell and Reilly’s characters is electric, and their juvenile antics are
matched by their chemistry, making it a cult comedy classic.
My rating:
I give “Step Brothers” a 10/10. It’s crude, immature, and ridiculous in the
best way possible—one for fans of Ferrell’s brand of humor.
The Other Guys (2010)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 78%
IMDb rating: 6.7/10
Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Ferrell teams up with Mark Wahlberg in this hilarious buddy cop comedy. The
film cleverly pokes fun at action movie tropes while giving Ferrell plenty of
room to shine as a nerdy, mild-mannered cop who gets caught up in a big case.
“The Other Guys” plays with the classic action-comedy genre
by flipping the traditional roles. Ferrell’s character, Detective Allen Gamble,
is the straight-laced, desk-bound cop who’s paired with Wahlberg’s
rough-around-the-edges, take-no-prisoners character. The result is a great
comedic contrast, as Ferrell plays the unlikely hero who can’t seem to catch a
break, even when he’s in over his head. His deadpan delivery and awkwardness
are in full force, but his character’s growth throughout the film adds a nice
layer to his usually absurd performances.
The film itself is a clever deconstruction of action movie
clichés, often mocking the exaggerated machismo that’s usually associated with
the genre. The film’s humor is witty and self-aware, poking fun at everything
from police procedural tropes to the ridiculousness of modern action films.
While Wahlberg is perfect as the exasperated tough guy, Ferrell’s character
brings the heart and humor to the film. Their dynamic is fantastic, and their
banter provides a lot of laughs, making this one of Ferrell’s best
straight-laced performances in a while.
My rating:
I give “The Other Guys” an 9.5/10. It’s a clever, hilarious buddy cop comedy with
great chemistry between Ferrell and Wahlberg and a smart twist on the genre.
Old School (2003)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 60%
IMDb rating: 7.0/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
In “Old School,” Ferrell plays Frank the Tank, a man who reverts to his wild
college days after his friends convince him to relive their glory days. It’s a
raunchy comedy, but Ferrell’s performance as the naive, over-the-top Frank is
unforgettable.
“Old School” is a fantastic example of Ferrell’s ability to
play lovable losers who are far from perfect but still manage to be completely
endearing. His portrayal of Frank the Tank, a man who is struggling to
reconcile his responsibilities with his desire to relive the carefree days of
college, is both hilarious and relatable. The film’s combination of frat-house
antics and absurd situations—like Frank’s infamous streaking scene—remains one
of its highlights, but it’s Ferrell’s sincerity and comedic charm that make his
character so memorable.
Beyond the outrageous physical comedy, “Old School” explores
themes of friendship, aging, and trying to reclaim your youth, which gives the
film a surprising amount of heart. The dynamic between Ferrell, Vince Vaughn,
and Luke Wilson works well, and their attempts to start a new fraternity lead
to plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. While the humor can be a bit crude at
times, it still holds up as a quintessential early-2000s comedy, and Ferrell’s
role as Frank the Tank is a major reason why it’s still remembered today.
My rating:
I give “Old School” a 10/10. It’s fun, raunchy, and hilarious, with Ferrell’s
performance being the centerpiece of a film that’s equal parts absurd and
heartfelt.
Final Thoughts
Will Ferrell’s career is a testament to his comedic genius
and his ability to bring absurdity, charm, and depth to a wide variety of
roles. From the heartwarming holiday classic Elf to the quirky
brilliance of Stranger Than Fiction, he’s proven that he can make us
laugh while delivering a touching performance. And while Zoolander 2 may
not be his best work, his filmography remains a treasure trove of laughs,
memorable characters, and unexpected moments of brilliance.
What’s your favorite Will Ferrell movie? Let me know in the
comments!