Jim Carrey has consistently proven himself a versatile actor, capturing poignancy in both touching dramas and the silliest of comedies. And yet, it’s the latter that made him such a beloved icon. His physical comedy provides a wholly unique, nigh unmatched slapstick. There is organic creativity that radiates from the screen like constant, bold improvisation.
So naturally, his return to that frenetic mode in Sonic the Hedgehog is most welcome. Just like the movie itself, his performance is very nostalgic. Carrey may have tremendous range, but laughter is always most infectious because it soothes and unites us all. Alrighty then, let’s celebrate all the films that showcased Carrey’s most unstoppable jokesters.
Me, Myself & Irene - 6.6
This is the movie that simply allowed Carrey to flaunt his Clint Eastwood impression. And to be fair, it’s really convincing and hilarious. It certainly points out the wackiness of Eastwood’s traditional tough guys, as they would appear in reality. And the contrast of lacking the actual skills behind the personality makes for some decent humor.
Jim Carrey letting loose is some kind of vicarious treat for audiences. So often, he acts as the compulsive personification of our id. Unfortunately, the vehicle for all the madness is somewhat underwhelming, here. The plot juggles various familiar themes and plotlines regarding the mafia, FBI, and escorting a target, a la Midnight Run. But Carrey himself is fantastic.
Bruce Almighty - 6.7
A high-concept premise is always the best agent for Jim Carrey’s methodical madness. And this nifty concept literally allows him powers limited only by imagination. In fact, this idea was promising enough to warrant a sequel. The cast here boasts a few big names, and Morgan Freeman fits the role of God suspiciously well.
Carrey’s protagonist Bruce mainly learns about responsibility. Selfish and altruistic misuses of fantastical power cause unforeseen chaos, akin to any story about wishes. This familiar journey is filled with a myriad of antics that equally hit and miss but swing hard in either direction. It suffers badly when it falters but really delivers when the jokes are imaginative and fun.
Lemony Snicket’s A Series Of Unfortunate Events - 6.8
This is a successful movie on all fronts, even capturing the quirky wit of the source material. It features superb performances from the entire cast, particularly impressive with child actors. The trick to Jim Carrey’s performance here is his forthright villainy.
There is something wickedly funny in witnessing such unapologetic, wacky cruelty towards children. It helps that the kids always foil the antagonist. But Carrey’s natural charm, and the surreal mood of the film, also add to a humorous tone. Not unlike many of Roald Dahl’s greatest hits, this is a mature children’s adventure that treats younger viewers with respect.
Yes Man - 6.8
Before director Peyton Reed and mega-star Bradley Cooper both joined the MCU, they collaborated on this quirky comedy. Dated by its pop culture references, the premise again allowed Carrey to act on wild impulses. This time, it’s simply about opening up to new experiences, which everyone really aspires to, sometimes.
Anyone would want to make the most out of life. So, it’s a simple and sympathetic plot with some light romance thrown in for good measure, as usual. However, Carrey isn’t outright manic, this time around. Instead, he’s just free-spirited, and the humor in leaving one’s comfort zone offers plenty of laughs. It’s all encouraging, breezy fun.
Sonic The Hedgehog - 6.9
This family comedy is the triumphant return of an unfiltered Jim Carrey, as Dr. Robotnik. He spends much of the runtime scolding inferior intellects, with the most incredible displays of zany wordplay and attitude. However, it’s balanced throughout with just the slightest touches of sincerity. The smallest references to Robotnik’s past are intriguing and touching. And when Carrey wants to intimidate, his menace is equally convincing.
Ultimately, the movie is just as joyous and swift as its titular protagonist, who amounts to a boisterous, likable kid. The supporting cast is fun, and there’s plenty of fan service for longtime gamers. While the plot and themes are simple, they’re executed well enough. This delightful movie was an absolute surprise, against all odds—transcending that infamous trailer, and every disastrous video game adaptation.
Liar Liar - 6.9
There’s a strange imbalance between the film’s extensive sexual dialogue and the children’s sensibilities of the comedy. It’s certainly a terrific kid’s movie, but the protagonist’s case is relentlessly adult. Granted, both directions work, but they don’t quite fit together. And yet, the high-concept premise is perfect for Carrey’s brilliant comedy.
The kid’s point-of-view is also touching, making the film overtly saccharine, yet accessible and sincere. Carrey’s dramatic moments are genuinely moving, as he learns about parenthood, selfishness and the true impact of lying. There are countless memorable scenes that milk the premise for all it’s worth, and even the ending outtakes are iconic.
The Mask - 6.9
Here, Jim Carrey gets to play a literal cartoon, as if he wasn’t already animated enough. This is one of the 90’s flicks that defined his career and even introduced Cameron Diaz on-screen. Once again, Carrey is the everyman whose inner impulses are unleashed against his will. But the lore of the titular mask, and thus the plot itself, are certainly striking.
It’s an edgy kid’s movie that hints at the darker source material. It bounces between Looney Tunes slapstick and twisted jokes that are probably unsuitable for younger viewers. It’s rather unbalanced, but a product of its time. The CGI has certainly dated poorly, but it was decent back then, and Jim Carrey is still absolutely magnetic.
Dumb And Dumber - 7.3
Comedy is a volatile, subjective thing. This is one of those polarizing films that someone can either comprehensively love or hate. And while it hasn’t dated quite as well as others in Carrey’s filmography, it remains one of his most treasured hits. Juvenile from beginning to end, the movie is unapologetic, brash, and unhinged in all the best ways.
It’s a buddy comedy and a road trip in one, pushing the boundaries of cartoon and reality. It leans into the genuine stupidity so knowingly, so cleverly, that it’s forgiven and even enjoyed. That’s no small feat, and would be impossible to achieve without that dynamic duo in the lead roles. The protagonists are lovable for their innocence and playfulness.
Man On The Moon - 7.4
Jim Carrey’s portrayal of Andy Kaufman is nothing less than profound. The sheer level of unbridled candor is overwhelming, but he never loses the sharp joy and ambition. It’s a compelling, tragic tale defined by Kaufman’s absolute, staggering vibrancy. But make no mistake, the comedy delivers just as powerfully as the drama.
No matter the tragedy, that never eclipses the joy in Kaufman’s life. His eccentric, imaginative humor was a treasure, though misunderstood at times. Perhaps Carrey was the only one truly suited for the interpretation of such a similarly blazing star as Kaufman.
The Truman Show - 8.1
This commentary on reality television has only become more relevant over time, with the advent of social platforms. People have become obsessed with garnering attention, revealing even their most trivial details online. Ultimately, this smart dramedy wields a novel premise to discuss serious ethical dilemmas with unexpected thematic maturity.
It’s also about freedom, and even questions reality right before The Matrix did. It is both a deeply cynical and optimistic film, alternately criticizing and encouraging. It’s certainly a fun thrill ride, as Carrey’s sudden awareness of his surroundings makes for some inventive, unusual comedy.
