In the 1980s, Steve Martin was one of America’s most popular and successful comedians. He starred in several hit movies during that decade, including The Jerk, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Roxanne.
Steve Martin is a movie legend, and he actually still appears in some bit parts here and there today.
The Best 80s Steve Martin Movies
Steve Martin is Hollywood royalty, and there are so many great movies to choose from when it comes to his best roles. However some of the best work of his career was actually done in the 1980s, and we have sifted through his movie catalog to bring you the best.
Here are our picks for the best Steve Martin movies from the 1980s:
1. Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid (1982)
Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid is a 1982 mystery comedy film directed by Carl Reiner and Martin. It stars Martin as detective Rigby Reardon, who investigates the murder of his former lover Juliette Carstairs (played by Rachel Ward). The film utilizes clips from various 1940s films to create its unique “noir” effect. “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid” was not as successful as Martin’s earlier films, grossing only $6 million against a budget of $11 million.
2. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
In 1987, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles told the story of two men who must travel from New York to Chicago for Thanksgiving. The film stars Steve Martin and John Candy and is considered one of the funniest movies ever made.
Many consider this movie to be Steve Martin’s best, and a lot has to do with the great storyline and comedic chemistry that he has with fellow legendary actor John Candy. If there is one movie on this list that you see, it should definitely be this one.
3. Roxanne (1987)
In 1987, Roxanne was a romantic comedy about a small-town fire chief (played by Steve Martin) who falls for the beautiful new arrival in town (played by Daryl Hannah). This movie is witty and charming, and it features some great performances from both Martin and Hannah.
4. Three Amigos (1986)
Released in 1986, Three Amigos is a comedy about three cowboys who are mistaken for heroes and then drafted into helping a Mexican village fight off a band of bandits. The movie stars Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short, and it is full of laughs and memorable moments.
5. The Man With Two Brains (1983)
The Man with Two Brains is a 1983 comedy film starring Steve Martin as Dr. Michael Hfuhruhurr – a brain surgeon who falls in love with Cecille (played by Kathleen Turner). It was written and directed by Carl Reiner and produced by Martin. “The Man with Two Brains” was a commercial success, grossing over $40 million worldwide on a budget of just $10 million.
These are just five of the best Steve Martin movies from the 1980s – many others were equally as funny and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a great comedy to watch, then be sure to check out one of these films from the 1980s. Steve Martin was at the top of his game during that decade, and the movies he starred in are still some of the funniest ever made.
