Zach Galifianakis is one of those actors who, at first glance, might make you wonder how they ever became successful. But once you watch him perform, it becomes clear that his unique brand of humor and ability to put his own spin on slapstick comedy is what sets him apart. Not only is he a master of comedy, but he’s also surprisingly good at drama, even if it feels a bit uncomfortable at times. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of his best movies that showcase his talent for defying expectations and making audiences laugh.
5. Masterminds
Masterminds is a comedy based on an actual robbery, and it’s anything but a well-planned heist. With Zach in the mix, you can’t help but expect things to go south quickly, as he often plays self-important characters who only realize their own shortcomings at the very end. In this movie, however, he does come out on top, which is a nice change of pace.
4. Are You Here
In Are You Here, Zach plays yet another emotionally disturbed character who inherits wealth and has no idea what to do with it. His innovative ideas aren’t quite fleshed out enough to be considered ‘good,’ but they’re certainly entertaining. When he grants his sister control of their family’s store, she tears it down, and when he grants his best friend control of the family farm, his friend realizes that he’s become his own crutch.
3. Due Date
Due Date is a road trip movie that showcases the challenges of traveling with someone who annoys you to no end. As the two main characters try to make it across the country in time for the birth of a child, they eventually grow closer and could even be considered friends by the end of the film. It’s a long, hilarious journey that only Zach could pull off.
2. Dinner for Schmucks
Dinner for Schmucks is a comedy that explores the idea of people taking advantage of others’ quirks for their own amusement. Paul Rudd’s character eventually snaps out of his snobbish behavior and reveals the true purpose of the dinner, leading to a series of hilarious events. Zach’s performance as one of the ‘schmucks’ is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny.
1. The Hangover
The Hangover is arguably Zach’s most iconic role, as he plays Alan, the guy who never quite grew up. His childish impulses often get him into trouble, like when he gets punched by Mike Tyson for peeing in his pool. Zach’s unconventional comedic style is what makes this movie a classic and solidifies his status as a comedic genius.
Zach Galifianakis may not be a conventional comedian, but his unique approach to humor and ability to defy expectations is what makes him a true standout in the world of comedy.
