| Sandler's sad shtick |
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When one thinks of Adam Sandler, one likely thinks back on cult comedies such as “Billy Madison” and “Happy Gilmore.”
And though it's doubtful that “dramatic actor” springs to mind when Sandler's name is mentioned, he's given moviegoers reason to (somewhat) think that way in recent years. From quirky dramas such as “Punch-Drunk Love” to dramedies such as “Spanglish,” and even including comedies with dramatic undertones, such as “Click,” Sandler has made an effort of late to distance himself from his funnyman shtick. That continues on Friday, March 23, when Sandler stars alongside Don Cheadle in “Reign Over Me.” The film, arguably Sandler's most dramatic role to date, centers on Charlie Fineman (Sandler), who lost his family in the 9-11 terrorist attacks. When he has a chance meeting with former college roommate Alan Johnson (Cheadle), the two rekindle their friendship in the hopes that it can help Charlie get back on track. Yeah, it's pretty heavy-hearted stuff. So before Sandler's latest non-comedic venture hits theaters nationwide, take a look back at his (relatively speaking) dramatic résumé. After all, he still is Adam Sandler. ‘PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE' Year: 2002 Co-stars: Emily Watson, Philip Seymour Hoffman Premise: Barry Egan (Sandler) is a businessman with seven nagging, emotionally abusive sisters and a penchant for occasional fits of rage who finds his life turned upside down by a mysterious woman named Lena Leonard (Watson). Most dramatic moment: After Lena is injured in a car accident, Barry beats those at fault with a tire iron before rushing her to the hospital. The 210 take: This movie walked a fine line between dark comedy and outright strange, but Sandler did earn a Golden Globe nomination for his efforts. ‘50 FIRST DATES' Year: 2004 Co-stars: Drew Barrymore, Rob Schneider Premise: Ladies' man Henry Roth (Sandler) falls for Lucy Whitmore (Barrymore), who suffers from short-term memory loss, so he must win her heart over every day. Keep in mind, it's a movie, hence Sandler's role as a ladies' man. Most dramatic moment: Henry makes a videotape for Lucy so that she can watch it every day and be reminded of the circumstances behind her amnesia. The 210 take: This romantic comedy was noticeably low-key compared to Sandler's previous comedic releases. Unfortunately, like many other Sandler films, it contained Rob Schneider. ‘SPANGLISH' Year: 2004 Co-stars: Téa Leoni, Paz Vega Premise: A Mexican mother (Vega) and daughter (Shelbie Bruce) move to the U.S., where the mother becomes the housekeeper for an affluent family, led by patriarch and famous chef John Clasky (Sandler) and his unstable wife, Deborah (Leoni). Most dramatic moment: Deborah reveals to John that she is having an affair with a real estate broker. The 210 take: Did you ever think you'd watch a dramatic film and Sandler would be the most redeeming quality? That was true for this flick. Good for Sandler. Not so good for “Spanglish.” ‘CLICK' Year: 2006 Co-stars: Kate Beckinsale, Christopher Walken Premise: Workaholic architect Michael Newman stumbles upon a remote control that allows him to control the pace of his life. Of course, the remote malfunctions, and Michael has to suffer the consequences. Most dramatic moment: Michael shows up at his son's wedding and sees his daughter call her stepfather “dad.” The 210 take: Save for a batsh**, mad-scientist- like Christopher Walken, this movie was downright depressing. It was, however, one of Sandler's best films of the last five years. Clint Hale | 210SA |
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