With a career spanning decades and a leading role in the hit Hulu series, Only Murders in the Building, it’s no wonder everyone seems to be talking about comedian Martin Short. Since debuting in the 1970s sketch show Second City Television, Short has appeared in numerous comedy films, television shows, and even Broadway.
Not only did he snag a couple of Emmy awards, but he was also honored by the late Queen Elizabeth II. For some, he’s a comedy legend. For others, the 73-year-old actor is simply overrated. Either way, Short’s expansive portfolio includes appearances in 18 movies.
Some were hilarious, others not so much. Which Martin Short movies to watch next? Here are all his live-action features, ranked according to IMDb scores from worst to best.
The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006) – 4.8/10
- Director: Michael Lembeck
- Starring: Tim Allen, Martin Short, Elizabeth Mitchell, Eric Lloyd
Official synopsis: Santa aka. Scott Calvin finds his merry North Pole life upended by the mischief of Jack Frost, who has a sinister plan to seize the holiday. As Scott grapples with a sabotaged toy factory and the tempting Escape Clause, the spirit of Christmas hangs in the balance.
Lost and Found (1979) – 4.9/10
- Director: Melvin Frank
- Starring: George Segal, Glenda Jackson, Maureen Stapleton, Hollis McLaren
Official synopsis: This romance movie follows an American widower and a British divorcée who keep running into each other, so they eventually tie the knot. When their marital bliss dwindles, their attempts to separate turn futile.
Jiminy Glick in Lalawood (2004) – 5.1/10
- Director: Vadim Jean
- Starring: Martin Short, Jan Hooks, Linda Cardellini, Janeane Garofalo
Official synopsis: The movie follows Jiminy Glick, who’s made a unique mark on the entertainment world with his eccentric talk show. Known for his bizarre celebrity interviews, often culminating in insults and altercations, Glick’s story unfolds in the glitzy world of La La Wood.
Jungle 2 Jungle (1997) – 5.2/10
- Director: John Pasquin
- Starring: Tim Allen, Martin Short, JoBeth Williams, Lolita Davidovich
Official synopsis: Jungle 2 Jungle follows the unexpected journey of Michael Cromwell, a self-absorbed broker, who learns he has a long-lost teenage son, Mimi-Siku, living in the South American tribes. The plot takes an amusing turn as Mimi-Siku is whisked away from his jungle home to navigate the urban realities of America.
A Simple Wish (1997) – 5.3/10
- Director: Michael Ritchie
- Starring: Martin Short, Mara Wilson, Robert Pastorelli, Ruby Dee
Official synopsis: Anabel and her male fairy godmother, Murray, embark on a quest to aid her dad in securing a Broadway role. Their journey spirals into a whirlwind of magic, mayhem, and mischief thanks to a defective magic wand and two menacing witches.
Clifford (1994) – 5.4/10
- Director: Paul Flaherty
- Starring: Martin Short, Charles Grodin, Mary Steenburgen, Dabney Coleman
Official synopsis: Clifford is a quirky comedy centered around a mischievous ten-year-old boy, whose weekend with Uncle Martin turns adventurous with his pursuit to visit Dinosaur World. Despite the obstacles, Clifford’s determination to reach the theme park near Martin’s home creates a hilariously chaotic narrative.
Cross My Heart (1987) – 5.7/10
- Director: Armyan Bernstein
- Starring: Martin Short, Annette O’Toole, Paul Reiser, Joanna Kerns
Official synopsis: A couple’s “big” third date takes a chaotic twist. He’s jobless but too embarrassed to say so, and she’s a mother but fears his reaction. Their little white lies inevitably spiral out of control, leading to a hilariously turbulent night.
Get Over It (2001) – 5.7/10
- Director: Tommy O’Haver
- Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Ben Foster, Melissa Sagemiller, Sisqó
Official synopsis: The comedic romance follows a heartbroken high school basketball star. Nursing a fresh wound from his breakup with Allison, he stumbles into a Midsummer Night’s Dream-like love triangle when he starts falling for Kelly while pursuing Allison into the school’s spring musical.
Pure Luck (1991) – 5.8/10
- Director: Nadia Tass
- Starring: Martin Short, Danny Glover, Sheila Kelley, Sam Wanamaker
Official synopsis: When a business tycoon’s daughter disappears in Mexico, an unorthodox strategy is hatched to locate her. An equally misfortune-prone accountant is dispatched to find the unlucky heiress.
Captain Ron (1992) – 5.8/10
- Director: Thom Eberhardt
- Starring: Kurt Russell, Martin Short, Mary Kay Place, Benjamin Salisbury
Official synopsis: A family inherits Clark Gable’s former yacht and decides on a sea voyage from the island of Ste. Pomme de Terre to Miami. Enlisting the help of Captain Ron, their expedition has unexpected twists and turns making their journey a transformative experience.
Father of the Bride Part II (1995) – 6.1/10
- Director: Charles Shyer
- Starring: Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Martin Short, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
Official synopsis: George Banks confronts the reality of his daughter’s evolution from wife to mother, triggering his mid-life crisis. His pursuit of youthfulness ignites a change in perspective, impacting both his and his wife’s lives.
Three Fugitives (1989) – 6.2/10
- Director: Francis Veber
- Starring: Nick Nolte, Martin Short, Sarah Rowland Doroff, James Earl Jones
Official synopsis: Recently released convict Lucas unexpectedly finds himself in the middle of a bank robbery orchestrated by Perry to help his sick daughter, Meg. When Lucas is mistaken for the mastermind, the three are on the run from Detective Dugan and the law.
Mars Attacks! (1996) – 6.4/10
- Director: Tim Burton
- Starring: Jack Nicholson, Pierce Brosnan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Annette Bening
Official synopsis: The arrival of Martians disrupts the global routine, prompting a whirl of suspense. When a planned meeting between humans and the extraterrestrials goes awry, Earth starts wondering if the Martians are misunderstood or a threat to its very existence.
¡Three Amigos! (1986) – 6.5/10
- Director: John Landis
- Starring: Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, Martin Short, Alfonso Arau
Official synopsis: Three jobless silent movie actors find themselves unexpectedly thrown into a real-life hero role in a Mexican village plagued by outlaws. Known for their Lone Ranger roles in movies, their acting skills are put to the ultimate test.
Father of the Bride (1991) – 6.5/10
- Director: Charles Shyer
- Starring: Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Martin Short, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
Official synopsis: In the delightful retelling of the classic Father of the Bride, George and Nina Banks are coming to terms with their daughter’s impending nuptials. Doting father George struggles with her transition into adulthood, while the wedding planning offers plenty of comic relief.
Inherent Vice (2014) – 6.6/10
- Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
- Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Katherine Waterston
Official synopsis: Set amidst the vibrant 60s and 70s, Inherent Vice centers on Larry “Doc” Sportello’s chaotic life, disrupted by his ex-girlfriend’s complicated plot involving a billionaire and his wife. As a kidnapping scheme unravels, several characters add unexpected spins to this adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s novel.
Mumford (1999) – 6.8/10
- Director: Lawrence Kasdan
- Starring: Loren Dean, Hope Davis, Jason Lee, Alfre Woodard
Official synopsis: Set in the small town of Mumford, the film follows the unconventional psychologist Micky Mumford, who quickly becomes a confidant to the town’s diverse populace. However, Micky’s growing influence triggers a chain of events that bring his secret dangerously close to the surface.
Innerspace (1987) – 6.8/10
- Director: Joe Dante
- Starring: Dennis Quaid, Martin Short, Meg Ryan, Kevin McCarthy
Official synopsis: Innerspace centers around pilot Tuck who’s been miniaturized in a unique experiment. He finds himself unexpectedly inside a hypochondriac. With the help of his old flame, the trio race to find the crucial elements needed to bring Tuck back to full size.
The 20 Best Romance Movies of All Time: Love Stories That Captivated Our Hearts
Ready for a dose of romance? Check out our ultimate list of the 20 most unforgettable love stories ever told! As a self-proclaimed cinema enthusiast, I’ve watched countless heart-melting movies, and trust me; these films will stir up all the emotions within you. Whether you’re an old romantic or new to the world of love, this collection caters to every romantic soul. So, grab your popcorn, tissues, and prepare to fall head over heels for these iconic films.
The 20 Best Comedy Movies of All Time: Laugh Your Way Through the Ultimate List
Looking for a good laugh? Look no further! Our list of the top 20 comedy movies is here to brighten your day and leave you in stitches. This list will have you doubled over with laughter, from hilarious characters to unforgettable punchlines. Don’t miss out on the comedic gold waiting to be discovered. Click and prepare for a joyride through the best of the best in the world of comedy films.
The 20 Best Music Movies of All Time: Lights, Camera, Rock’ n’ Roll!
Get ready to be swept away by the mesmerizing blend of storytelling and music in our selection of the top 20 music movies ever made. From jazz beats to timeless rock anthems, these films deliver a symphony for your senses. Prepare to be moved, entertained, and immersed in the captivating world of music. Popcorn in hand, volume turned up, let the journey begin!
