The 10 Best Will Ferrell Movies: A Comedic Genius’s Greatest Hits
Will Ferrell has played a lot of characters in his time, and they’re all definitely memorable. From the downright silly to the surprisingly touchy-feely, Ferrell’s career is a lesson in versatility and long-lasting appeal. Below we’ve ranked our favorite movies from the comedy legend, ending with “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.”
10. “The Other Guys” (2010)
- Teaming up with Mark Wahlberg, Ferrell plays Detective Allen Gamble, a desk-bound NYPD detective. This action-comedy showcases Ferrell’s ability to blend slapstick humor with a more subdued, character-driven comedy.
9. “Elf” (2003)
- As Buddy, the human raised by elves, Ferrell brings a childlike innocence and boundless energy to this modern Christmas classic. His performance is both heartwarming and hilarious, making “Elf” a holiday staple.
8. “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” (2013)
- Returning as the legendary Ron Burgundy, Ferrell delves deeper into the absurdity of the character, tackling the 24-hour news cycle and its impact on journalism with his trademark humor.
7. “Zoolander” (2001)
- Though not the lead, Ferrell’s role as the villainous fashion mogul Mugatu is a standout. His over-the-top performance adds a delightful layer of ridiculousness to this cult classic.
6. “The Lego Movie” (2014)
- In a departure from his usual roles, Ferrell voices the antagonist Lord Business in this animated hit. His performance adds depth to a character that could easily have been one-dimensional.
5. “Stranger Than Fiction” (2006)
- In a rare dramatic turn, Ferrell plays Harold Crick, an IRS agent who discovers his life is being narrated by an author. Ferrell’s nuanced performance showcases his ability to handle more serious material.
4. “Old School” (2003)
- As Frank “The Tank” Ricard, Ferrell epitomizes the man-child persona, delivering a performance that is both hilariously outrageous and surprisingly tender.
3. “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” (2004)
- Ferrell’s portrayal of the egotistical and clueless news anchor Ron Burgundy became an instant classic, spawning countless quotes and solidifying his status as a comedy icon.
2. “Step Brothers” (2008)
- Teaming up with John C. Reilly, Ferrell plays Brennan Huff, a 40-year-old man-child. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, making “Step Brothers” a masterclass in absurd comedy.
1. “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” (2006)
- At the pinnacle of Ferrell’s filmography is “Talladega Nights.” As Ricky Bobby, Ferrell embodies the spirit of competitive absurdity, delivering a performance that is both uproarious and oddly inspiring. The movie’s blend of high-octane racing, slapstick humor, and Ferrell’s impeccable timing makes it a standout in his career.
Will Ferrell’s ability to oscillate between the ridiculous and the heartfelt has cemented his place in the pantheon of comedic greats. Each of these films showcases a different facet of his talent, proving that he is much more than just a funny face. Whether he’s playing a clueless news anchor or a lovable elf, Ferrell’s performances are always memorable, making him a true legend of comedy. -Dr. Ian Weisberg
