Martin Short is beloved by fans of comedy because of his incredible timing and ability to steal any scene. It goes without saying, the writer, comedian, and actor has been entertaining audiences for decades. And while he is massively popular for his work on sketch shows and blockbuster films, some of his lesser-known movies deserve a humble revisit.
Short’s career began getting serious in the late ‘70s, when he joined the improvisation group The Second City and it really took off in the ‘80s after he became a part of the beloved comedy troupe SCTV. It was there that he developed his signature brand of humor – exaggerated characters and snappy dialogue. After that, Short appeared in a bunch of classics: Three Fugitives and Father of the Bride.
Now, Martin Short has found a wonderful creative home in the hit mystery comedy series, Only Murders in the Building. He partners up with Steve Martin and Selena Gomez, but steals scenes as Oliver Putnam, the founder and director of a true crime podcast. In the show, he exhibits boundless energy, improv skills, and physical comedy. And if you think Martin Short is a pure joy to watch as Oliver, you are definitely going to enjoy some of his underrated film performances. So without further ado, let’s take a look at dramedies and comedies starring Martin Short that are worthy of so much praise.
10 Long Story Short (2011)
Directed by Chris Jaymes and Jesse Shamata, this television special is just as humorous as Martin Short’s other appearances, whether it is on the big screen or small. Long Story Short celebrates Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s legacy in the domain by taking a heartwarming look at its finest moments from the last 75 years.
Honoring The Art of Storytelling
Capturing the beginning, middle, and continuing legacy of the art of storytelling, this comedy special calls for a viewing. As the host and the interviewer, Short lends his comedic chops and earnest talents to the presentation. The fact that he’s not playing a character immediately brings a sense of warmth and sincerity to his appearance. A bunch of remarkable actors, program writers, and comedians share insights on the evolution of cinema, with Short entertaining them and the viewers with his clever humor. Stream Long Story Short on Netflix.
9 The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)
The third and equally enjoyable installment in The Santa Clause franchise, Tim Allen reprises his role of Scott Calvin. He has been balancing his role as Santa Claus and a family man for several happy years, but when an unforeseen snag in the form of Jack Frost and his plan to sabotage Christmas by urging Calvin to renounce his position as Santa stands in front of him, he must find a way to save the holiday.
Short Saves (or Spoils?) the Day
In The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, Martin Short plays Jack Frost, who is jealous of the fact that there’s no universal celebration or holiday in his honor. His character steals many scenes by being mischievous and silly as he tries to steal Santa Claus’ role. Because Short is the antagonist in the story, there is an iciness to his role. But fans of the comedian know just how capable he is of being both zany and surprisingly sweet. Stream on Disney+.
8 Prince Charming (2001)
Starring Martin Short, a young Christina Applegate, and Sean Maguire, Prince Charming is a hilarious fairy tale romance. The premise sees Prince John committing an irresponsible act on the day of his wedding and calling a curse upon him and his squire, Rodney. As a result, the Prince and Rodney have been living as frogs for 500 years. But their fates change when a Broadway diva impulsively (and temporarily) breaks their curse.
Short Plays the Prince’s Sidekick
Another made-for-TV movie that is as witty as it is underrated, Prince Charming sees Short play the Prince’s squire. His outsized energy and modest talents are spent keeping the Prince from any harm. But as the amusing inclusion to this twist on a classic fairytale, Short injects vibrant humor, heartfelt support, to wacky fun. Short always commits fully to his role and this film highlights his gifts quite appropriately.
7 Frankenweenie (2012)
One of Tim Burton’s least-watched movies, Frankenweenie is a black-and-white stop-motion animation that dabbles in science fiction, horror, and comedy. It is set in 1957 and it tells the tale of Victor Frankenstein, who uses the power of electricity to bring his beloved dog Sparky back from the dead after he is hit by a car. All’s well until Victor’s neighbors discover Sparky and want to reanimate their own pets as well. Which results in absolute mayhem.
Taking Up Multiple Voice Roles
An odd but energetic film, Frankenweenie utilizes the voices of several actors, including Charlie Tahan, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Landau. Martin Short is the perfect vocal fit for three characters – Edward Frankenstein, the Frankenstein family’s next-door neighbor, Mr. Burgermeister, and Nassor, Victor’s classmate. Within the story of scientific adventure and exquisite humor, Short makes sure even the tiniest scene elicits laughter. His range and touching performance makes this dark comedy a must-watch. Stream on Disney+.
Frankenweenie
- Release Date
- October 4, 2012
- Director
- Tim Burton
- Runtime
- 87
6 Jiminy Glick in Lalawood (2004)
Jiminy Glick in Lalawood is a comedy mockumentary that takes Martin Short’s popular television character, the titular celebrity critic and places him in the center of a murder mystery at the Toronto International Film Festival. Starting off unassumingly as a spoof and slowly transitioning into an outlandish plot, the movie is a laughing riot.
An Iconic Mockumentary
Martin Short reprises his acclaimed alter ego with ease and navigates the plot in his own signature bumbling way alongside A-listers like Willem Dafoe, Whoopi Goldberg, Jake Gyllenhaal, Rob Lowe, Steve Martin, Kurt Russell, and more. Short is a pro and Glick might just be his best character. The film not only spoofs Hollywood with sharp humor and a fame cast, but also finds success in doing so. Despite being on the same stage as some of the industry’s most elite, Short reveals his physical comedy in full swing and rightfully cements his place as an unparalleled great.
5 Cross My Heart (1987)
Cross My Heart is a romantic comedy directed by Armyan Bernstein. It has a lighthearted premise that centers around themes of dating, friendship and family. Short plays David Morgan, a man who has lost his job and is going out with Annette O’Toole’s Kathy, who has a kid. They’ve both been on two dates and are still unaware of each other’s secrets. Before their third date, their respective best friends provide David and Kathy with tips to take things forward.
Martin Short Surprises With His Range
Showing a surprising range beyond his beloved comedy roles, Short imbues David with sweet charm. His character has the qualities of a dreamer, and he cares for others. The film focuses on connection, how insecurities surface when two people get to know each other, and how chemistry and drama take turns steering the wheel. Short’s earnest performance elevates a still fairly unknown drama and appeals to old fans and new.
4 Sunset Limousine (1983)
A quirky made-for-television drama directed by Terry Hughes, Sunset Limousine was a triumph with the critics; they called it “delightful.” It follows Alan O’Black, an aspiring stand-up comedian who moonlights as a limousine driver to make ends meet. Dumped by his girlfriend, Alan also gets involved in the shady drama churned by businessman Bradley Coleman. This leads to chases across Los Angeles, a case of a stolen limo, and near-death experiences.
An Underrated Television Movie Role
In one of his early supporting roles, Short fully commits to Bradley Coleman optimism and eccentricity. Balancing comedy with the most ridiculous hijinks, he carries the film with an understated charm. In praising John Ritter for his manic and witty energy, critics and fans often forget that it is their character dynamic that actually makes the film work as a splendid and refreshing work of screwball comedy. Stream Sunset Limousine for free on Tubi.
3 Clifford (1994)
Directed by Paul Flaherty, Clifford is a warm-hearted slapstick comedy movie. Its unusual plot surrounds an obnoxious 10-year-old boy who is staying at his uncle’s place while his parents are away on a business trip. Always clutching his toy dinosaur named Steffen, Clifford enjoys making his uncle’s life a waking nightmare by getting into the most ridiculous, self-orchestrated situations. All for his innocent wish to visit Dinosaur World.
Martin Short Pushes His Own Creativity
By taking up the role of a ten-year-old, Short takes the greatest challenge of his career and injects the right mix of humor and heart into the character. Alongside co-stars Charles Grodin, Mary Steenburgen, and Dabney Coleman, Short anchors the film by always getting into trouble to seek attention and courting empathy in the process. Under Flaherty’s direction, Short brings layers to every scene and makes the audience smile. Despite being a critical and commercial bomb, Clifford is entertaining because of Martin Short. Stream on Prime Video.
2 The Big Picture (1989)
Another underrated movie where Martin Short showcases his unmatched talent for comedy is The Big Picture. It is directed by Christopher Guest in his directorial debut and it stars Kevin Bacon as an aspiring film school grad named Nick Chapman who wins a prestigious contest in Los Angeles and believes himself skilled enough to make his debut in Hollywood. He tries to get a deal with a major studio with the help of his quirky agent, played by Short.
Short Takes Center Stage with Kevin Bacon
Despite only having a supporting role, Short steals scenes as the hilarious and obnoxious agent to Bacon’s protagonist. He also excels in his chemistry with Bacon, the two fueling the film’s narrative with an infectious, manic energy that elicits non-stop laughter. The movie dives headfirst into the cutthroat world of Hollywood and does so with perfection. If you decide to overlook the clichéd plot and unrealistic situations and only focus on Short’s intentionally mismatched comedic timing, then the movie is definitely an entertaining one to watch. Stream for free on Tubi.
1 Get Over It (2001)
In quintessential 2000s teen rom-com fashion, director Tommy O’Haver crafts a movie that is relatable and chucklesome. It centers around a popular high schooler, Berke Landers, who gets dumped by his girlfriend just before the winter musical. He seeks help from his best friend’s younger sister to win her back and secure a spot in the school play.
Martin Short Leaves a Lasting Impression
Predictable but charming regardless, Get Over It stars Kirsten Dunst and Ben Foster in the lead roles. Martin Short plays Dr. Desmond Forrest-Oates, the egoistic and domineering high school theater teacher who is directing the school play, a modern iteration of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (which is also the inspiration for the film).
Critics have praised Short’s energy, his flamboyant comedy, and sincerity, citing “as the vain and zany drama teacher, [he] does not disappoint.” Overall, Get Over It is proof of the fact that the comedian can leave an indelible mark even with his briefest roles. Stream on Hoopla.
