Adam Sandler has to be the least conscious movie star of our time. Despite the critical scolding, he continues to make wholesome movies with his friends and family. At heart, he’s an entertainer who doesn’t play by the rules of formulaic filmmaking. Man of the masses and a really lovely guy by all reports, Sandler just wants to be Sandler.

But Adam Sandler has also hit it out of the park with surprising dramatic turns. The former SNL star has worked with some incredible filmmakers to deliver heart-wrenching performances. It’s impressive how Sandman can make 20 slapstick comedy movies in a row, only to switch up and turn in Oscar-worthy dramatic performances.

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Best Adam Sandler Dramatic Roles

5. Hustle (2022)

‘Hustle’ marks Adam Sandler’s return to drama after a long time. Once again, Adam Sandler’s collaboration with an indie director brings out the thespian within him. As basketball scout Stanley Sugarman, Sandler’s performance perfectly captures the frustration and rejection from being on the outs.

4. Funny People (2009)

Adam Sandler’s performance in the film makes up for the excruciating runtime. Sandler, still in the middle of his career, dares to satirize himself and his career. He also brilliantly plays the fallen victim to his own success, left alone to replay older glories in his decaying mansion. The actor gives an equally hilarious and heartbreaking performance. 

3. The Meyerowitz Stories (New And Selected) (2017)

Not every sibling takes off in life. Sandler plays Danny Meyerowitz, the sibling who stays behind and is forced to love his overbearing parents nonetheless. Opposite to Ben Stiller’s more accomplished sibling, Stiller’s limping, muttering, and strangely sweet performance will win your heart. Sandler’s performance had some early award buzz, but it fizzled out.

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2. Uncut Gems (2019) 

Adam Sandler in ‘Uncut Gems’ risks all the goodwill he’s had with this comic character. He is a double-timing, unforgiving, and rat-faced. But you forgive him for charming. In a time bomb of a thriller that goes very, very, bad, the 57-year-old actor gives a memorable performance with a deplorable and dramatic turn as a shameless opportunist. It’s an unforgivable Oscar snub, really.

1. Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

Adam Sandler’s brilliance as a dramatic actor would have been unknown without ‘Punch-Drunk Love.’ The former SNL star is brilliant as a beaten-down man-child who finally rises to his full potential when he discovers love in his life. Sandler is able to pull and draw from all his comedic might and the lingering sadness that comes from being lonely. 

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