Top 10 Ben Stiller Roles: From Zoolander to Severance, Which is Your Favorite?

Summary

Ben Stiller‘s versatile career as an actor and director spans iconic comedies such as Zoolander and dramatic thrillers like Severance.
Stiller excels in various roles, from comedic leads to villainous antagonists, showcasing his range and talent in Hollywood.
Through memorable characters like White Goodman and Derek Zoolander, Stiller has cemented his place as a comedic legend in the film industry.

From the gripping finale of Severance season 1 to its newest season, the Apple TV series has climbed to one of the top shows of its time as Mark Scout and his colleagues delve further into their employers’ mysterious, sinister secrets at Lumon. Through the challenges and hardships faced by the MDR, their Outies grow increasingly intrigued and wary about their supposed work, setting the stage for a second season filled with enigma and hostility.

Though Ben Stiller may not be the main actor onscreen, he is a pivotal figure as the leading director of “Severance,” lending his presence significantly to this groundbreaking series. Renowned for his ability to excel both in front of and behind the camera, Stiller’s career stands out as one that few aspire to emulate. With an extensive body of work filled with captivating and side-splitting performances in iconic films, Ben Stiller has solidified his status as a Hollywood luminary.

10. Larry Daley — Night at the Museum (2006)

The Voice Of Reason In A Fun Fantasy Setting

In what eventually became a series of three beloved films, I discovered “Night at the Museum” – an amusing, family-friendly fantasy movie that featured Stiller as the central figure in a whirlwind of humorous antics. Working as a night guard at a historical museum in New York City, Larry Daley, played by Stiller, was hired. As darkness fell, animals, artifacts, and historical figures miraculously sprang to life! The ensuing mayhem showcased the hidden talents within our down-on-his-luck hero, Larry.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises for Stiller’s movie “Night at the Museum”. Its unique idea and non-stop entertainment kept me hooked, but what truly stood out was how Stiller’s comical style evolved throughout. By the end, my character’s self-assurance and passion for his job were shining brightly.

9. Greg Focker — Meet The Parents (2000)

A Love-Hate Relationship With Potential Father-In-Law

In the iconic 00s comedy “Meet the Parents,” Ben Stiller played the leading role as Greg Focker, solidifying his status as a comedic lead actor opposite Hollywood legend Robert De Niro. The story unfolds as Greg attempts to win over his future in-laws, but things go awry when he initially clashes with Jack Byrne, his girlfriend’s stern father, creating complications for his plans to propose marriage.

Struggling with nervous tension, discomfort, and cringe-worthy situations, Greg’s quest to win over his prospective family makes for a hilarious adventure. The heated exchanges between Stiller and De Niro have become a legendary scene in cinema history.

Greg’s attempts to gain the approval of his future family are filled with tension, unease, and some rather awkward scenes. This rollercoaster ride is nothing short of amusing entertainment. The verbal sparring between Stiller and De Niro has left a lasting impact on cinematic history.

8. Hal — Happy Gilmore (1996)

Small Comedic Cameo That Became One Of The Cult Classic’s Many Memorable Moments

Regardless of his brief and unacknowledged appearance in the movie Happy Gilmore, Stiller managed to outshine all other stars, including the impressive comedic lineup featured in the golf-themed comedy. In the film Happy Gilmore, we follow the story of Happy, a former hockey player who transforms into an aspiring golfer with an incredible swing, aiming to save his grandmother’s home by competing on the PGA Tour.

In the iconic film, Adam Sandler got a major boost from his role, but Ben Stiller as the quirky care home worker Hal was particularly hilarious. Stiller’s persistent behavior towards the elderly under his care, coupled with his efforts to hide it from Happy, makes his portrayal stand out, even though he has fewer scenes.

7. Chas Tenenbaum — The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Stiller Excels Among An Impressive Ensemble In This Quirky Dramedy

In the film that laid the foundation for Wes Anderson’s subsequent projects, The Royal Tenenbaums offered a novelty and quirkiness that viewers craved as they entered the new millennium. The unconventional plot revolves around the peculiar Tenenbaum family, who come together under one roof following the patriarch’s struggles with serious health issues.

In his younger years, Chas Tenenbaum under Stiller’s portrayal was a financial genius and prodigy. Yet, after the tragic plane crash that took his wife’s life, Chas develops an overwhelming fearfulness in maturity. He strives to impress upon his two young sons, the fruit of this paranoia, who strictly adhere to his life plan as he lays it out. Amidst a collection of brilliant comedic acts, Stiller’s Chas truly shines under Anderson’s unique and eccentric direction.

6. Tony Perkis/Tony Perkis Sr. — Heavyweights (1995)

Underrated Role As A Crazed Fitness Instructor

Frequently overshadowed in Stiller’s and Disney’s collection is the 90s movie “Heavyweights,” where Stiller gets to enjoy himself immensely and showcase his acting skills in two distinct roles. In this film, a group of overweight kids find themselves at a camp supposedly designed for fun and weight loss. However, their instructor, Tony Perkis, attempts to spoil their time by implementing outrageous and excessive methods.

The film showcases outstanding child acting from well-known talents, with Stiller’s hilarious yet brutal portrayal of Perkis contributing significantly to its success. He becomes the driving force behind a frequently overlooked movie, delivering one of his most compelling performances.

5. Ted Stroehmann — There’s Something About Mary (1998)

Stiller Fights For The Love Of His Life In A Rom-Com Classic

A film that significantly boosted Stiller’s fame was when he played opposite Cameron Diaz in “There’s Something About Mary“. This movie stood out during the ’90s, a period marked by the popularity of romantic comedies. In the story, Stiller’s character Ted Stroehmann attempts to reconnect with his high school sweetheart, only to find himself vying for Mary’s affections against numerous other suitors.

Mary’s performances significantly drive the film’s energy, especially as they contrast with Stiller’s bumbling attempts to win over his ideal woman. This role played a significant part in establishing Stiller as a prominent comic lead actor.

4. Tugg Speedman — Tropic Thunder (2008)

A High-Profile Actor Filming A Blockbuster Gone Wrong

Tropic Thunder, known for its daring plot, location, and characters, is a debatable comedy where Ben Stiller both directs and takes on the main character. The story revolves around Tugg Speedman, a Hollywood star struggling with his waning popularity, who seeks to rejuvenate his acting career. Joined by other fictional A-list actors, Speedman embarks on filming an ambitious project in Vietnam. However, events take a turn when Speedman is kidnapped by the local mafia. Amidst this chaos, the movie’s production becomes chaotic as themes like death, ego, and competition dominate the scene.

In a stellar cast featuring Robert Downey Jr.’s intense acting and a self-centered Jack Black, Ben Stiller’s on-screen chemistry and acting prowess with his fellow actors bring Tropic Thunder to life. The range of his performance aligns perfectly with the outrageous storyline that is characteristic of this classic comedy.

3. Walter Mitty — The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (2013)

A Boring Guy Goes On The Adventure Of A Lifetime

In a less common occurrence for Hollywood, Stiller managed to both star in and direct “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” an action-filled tale about a character named Walter Mitty. Initially a timid office worker at a lifestyle magazine, Walter embarks on an extraordinary journey to capture an elusive photo for the publication’s last print issue. Along the way, his character transforms from a mundane presence into a vibrant personality.

In “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” Walter initially appears as an ordinary man, but as the story unfolds, he blossoms out of his comfort zone. The transformation of Walter, skillfully depicted by Ben Stiller, serves as a core element of the narrative. Notably, Walter’s strained relationship with Ted Hendricks, played by Adam Scott who also collaborated with Stiller in “Severance,” is a crucial aspect of the plot. Over time, Walter’s changing perspective on Ted leads him to challenge Ted’s authoritarian leadership, demonstrating Walter’s growth into a courageous character.

2. White Goodman — Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)

Vain Dodgeball Pro That Sees Stiller Lose Himself In Ludicrous Role

In one of his rare villainous performances, Stiller portrayed White Goodman in “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story”. His fierce rivalry with Vince Vaughn’s character resulted in a timeless sports comedy. In the movie, Peter, along with other gym members, form a dodgeball team to save their gym from closure. They participate in a high-stakes tournament held in Las Vegas, where they encounter Goodman, a self-absorbed antagonist.

In this role, Stiller stands out among others by masterfully portraying a mysterious villain, filled with flair and overt confidence. His acting becomes legendary and thrilling due to these characteristics.

1. Derek Zoolander — Zoolander (2001)

Eccentric Runway Model That Has An Intense Rivalry

The influence of the movie “Zoolander” on popular culture and society is quite obvious. Much of its enduring status can be attributed to Ben Stiller’s astonishing portrayal of the flamboyant Derek Zoolander, a character now synonymous with the actor following the film’s release as a cult favorite. The story, set within the high-stakes world of runway modeling, depicts Zoolander’s bitter rivalry with Hansel McDonald. In an attempt to revive his faltering career, Zoolander plots to assassinate the President of Malaysia.

Stiller’s flamboyant and humorous portrayal of Zoolander has become iconic for him. The memes that capitalize on Zoolander’s charm have significantly contributed to the character’s enduring popularity, resulting in a sequel that celebrated Stiller’s now-legendary comedic performances.

2025-02-24 13:07