The Best Don Knotts Movies

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Venturing into the world of classic Hollywood cinema, some of the most memorable shows of comedic genius can be found in the best Don Knotts movies. With a career spanning several decades, Don Knotts undoubtedly carved out a special place in the annals of Hollywood history, thanks to his incredible range of hilarious and heartwarming roles. Renowned for his impeccable timing and endearing persona, Don Knotts made his mark as a film icon to be remembered. With an array of hilarious and heartwarming roles to his name, this collection of Don Knotts films highlights his unparalleled talent and provides entertainment for cinephiles and comedy fans alike. 

These remarkable Don Knotts movies showcase the actor's exceptional ability to transform into unforgettable characters while delivering top-notch performances. Each film possesses a unique charm, elevating the viewing experience and making these movies stand out among the rest. From slapstick comedy to tender moments, these movies with Don Knotts define his illustrious career, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who appreciates quality storytelling and delightful humor. 

For instance, The Ghost and Mr. Chicken is a prime example of Don Knotts's impeccable comedic presence as he portrays a nervous typesetter with aspirations of becoming a reporter. On the other hand, The Shakiest Gun in the West features Knotts as a quivering dentist in the Old West, blending quick-witted humor and a touch of romance. Finally, The Incredible Mr. Limpet takes audiences under the sea for a delightful adventure as Knotts lends his voice to a mild-mannered man-turned-fish. Each of these Don Knotts movies highlights the actor's versatile acting prowess, showcasing his ability to bring depth and hilarity to a wide range of roles. 

As a testament to the enduring appeal of Don Knotts's impeccable talent, these films continue to enchant and entertain audiences across generations, serving as a delightful reminder of his comedic genius. Exploring the best Don Knotts movies is truly an enjoyable journey through a magnificent collection of films that spans several decades. These Don Knotts films not only capture the essence of the actor's incredible talent but also offer a captivating glimpse into the timeless appeal of his work. So, sit back, relax, and savor the magic of Don Knotts's best movies, as these films never fail to entertain and leave audiences in stitches.

  • The Ghost and Mr. Chicken
    1
    Don Knotts, Joan Staley, Liam Redmond
    277 votes

    This film is a delightful blend of comedy and mystery, as the timid protagonist stumbles upon a haunted house with a sinister past. Don Knotts delivers an iconic performance as the bumbling yet endearing Luther Heggs, who sets out to prove the existence of the supernatural in order to save his reputation. With its clever script and memorable one-liners, this movie has become a beloved classic that showcases Knotts's impeccable comedic timing and his ability to bring warmth and depth to his character. Ultimately, it remains a timeless piece of cinema that continues to entertain audiences of all ages.

  • The Shakiest Gun in the West
    2
    Don Knotts, Barbara Rhoades, Jackie Coogan
    187 votes

    A hilarious tale of an inexperienced dentist who inadvertently becomes involved in gun-slinging adventures in the Wild West, this film showcases Don Knotts's unique brand of physical comedy at its finest. As Dr. Jesse W. Haywood, Knotts demonstrates his unparalleled ability to create laughter from even the most mundane situations through his expert use of facial expressions and body language. The film's success rests on its perfect blend of slapstick humor, engaging storytelling, and heartfelt moments that reveal the true talent behind Knotts's comedic genius. It remains a must-watch for fans seeking an unforgettable dose of laughter.

  • The Apple Dumpling Gang
    3
    Bill Bixby, Susan Clark, Tim Conway
    162 votes

    In this family-friendly comedy-adventure about three orphaned siblings who discover gold during California's Gold Rush era, Don Knotts teams up with Tim Conway to form an unforgettable duo as bumbling outlaws Theodore Ogelvie and Amos Tucker. Their hilarious antics steal every scene they're in while showcasing their incredible chemistry together on-screen; it's no wonder they went on to collaborate multiple times throughout their careers! This charming film is successful not only due to its delightful cast but also for its heartwarming story featuring strong themes like family unity and perseverance against adversity - a true testament to why it remains so well-loved today.

  • The Reluctant Astronaut
    4
    Don Knotts, Leslie Nielsen, Joan Freeman
    159 votes

    This film is a hilarious take on the space race, as Don Knotts plays Roy Fleming, a timid man who accidentally becomes NASA's newest astronaut candidate. Knotts brings his signature brand of humor to this fish-out-of-water tale, using his comedic prowess to create a character that is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny. The movie's success lies not only in its comedic moments but also in its underlying message about overcoming fear and self-doubt - a theme that resonates with audiences even now. It stands as a prime example of how Don Knotts's talent transcended genres and time periods.

  • The Incredible Mr. Limpet
    5
    Don Knotts, Carole Cook, Jack Weston
    179 votes

    In this unique blend of live-action and animation, Don Knotts stars as the mild-mannered Henry Limpet who magically transforms into a fish after wishing for it during World War II. This family-friendly adventure showcases Knotts's ability to adapt his iconic comedic style to suit any genre while still delivering an engaging performance that keeps audiences glued to their seats from start to finish. Its success can be attributed not only to its imaginative storytelling but also to the memorable characters brought vividly to life by Knotts and the talented voice cast. This charming film continues to enchant viewers with its heartwarming story and unforgettable protagonist.

  • The Private Eyes
    6
    Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Trisha Noble
    107 votes

    In this delightful spoof of classic detective films, Don Knotts stars alongside Tim Conway as Inspector Winship and Dr. Tart (respectively), who are tasked with solving a murder mystery at an eerie mansion filled with eccentric characters. Both actors demonstrate their impeccable comedic skills through their witty banter, slapstick antics, and perfect timing; it's no wonder they became one of cinema's most beloved comic duos! The film was successful thanks not only to its clever script but also due to the undeniable chemistry between Knotts and Conway, which continues to entertain and delight audiences today.

  • How to Frame a Figg
    7
    Don Knotts, Joe Flynn, Edward Andrews
    88 votes

    In this quirky comedy, Don Knotts takes on the role of Hollis Figg, an unassuming accountant who becomes embroiled in a corruption scandal at city hall. Knotts shines as the unlikely hero, using his comedic talents to bring humor and humanity to a character who finds himself in increasingly absurd situations. The film's success can be attributed to its unique blend of slapstick humor and witty dialogue, as well as Knotts's endearing performance that keeps audiences rooting for him until the end. It remains an entertaining testament to Don Knotts's ability to carry a film with his undeniable charisma.

  • No Time for Sergeants
    8
    Andy Griffith, Myron McCormick, Nick Adams
    100 votes

    This classic military comedy follows Will Stockdale, played by Andy Griffith, as he navigates the trials of life in the Air Force alongside his bumbling friend Ben Whitledge (Don Knotts). In one of his earliest roles, Knotts demonstrates his innate ability for physical comedy with impeccable timing and facial expressions that would later become his trademark style; it's no surprise he would go on to achieve great fame after this breakout role! The film was successful due in large part to its clever dialogue and engaging performances from Griffiths and Knotts, which helped to create a memorable and timeless comedy that is still enjoyed today.

  • The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again
    9
    Tim Conway, Don Knotts, Tim Matheson
    108 votes

    The hilarious duo of Don Knotts and Tim Conway return in this sequel, reprising their roles as bumbling outlaws Theodore Ogelvie and Amos Tucker who find themselves inadvertently helping a group of settlers protect their land from greedy railroad tycoons. Their on-screen chemistry is just as strong in this follow-up film, with each actor expertly playing off the other's comedic timing for maximum laughs throughout. This movie succeeds not only due to its engaging story but also because it recaptures the charm and humor that made the original such a hit with audiences - proving once again why these two were comedy gold together.

  • Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
    10
    Dean Jones, Julie Sommars, Don Knotts
    102 votes

    In this third installment of Disney's popular "Herbie" series, Don Knotts steps into the role of mechanic Wheely Applegate alongside Dean Jones as race car driver Jim Douglas; together they embark on an adventure-packed racing competition across Europe with their sentient Volkswagon Beetle named Herbie. As always, Knotts brings his signature brand of physical comedy to this family-friendly film, expertly using his expressive face and body language to create laughs throughout. The movie was successful not only due to its exciting plot but also because it introduced new fans to the charm and humor that made Don Knotts such a beloved actor for generations.

  • Hot Lead and Cold Feet
    11
    Jim Dale, Karen Valentine, Don Knotts
    70 votes

    This western comedy features Don Knotts as Denver Kid, a fast-talking conman who becomes embroiled in a wild adventure involving mistaken identities, treasure hunts, and gun-slinging showdowns. Knotts's impeccable comedic timing shines through in this film, using his facial expressions and physicality to create laughter in every scene he appears in. The movie's success is due not only to its entertaining story but also Knotts's ability to bring warmth and humor to even the most outrageous situations; it remains an enjoyable watch for fans of both the actor and the genre.

  • Return to Mayberry
    12

    Return to Mayberry

    Ron Howard, Andy Griffith, Don Knotts
    66 votes

    Reuniting with Andy Griffith for this nostalgic television movie based on their iconic series The Andy Griffith Show, Don Knotts reprises his role as Barney Fife, now deputy sheriff in their hometown of Mayberry. His performance is filled with warmth and humor that reminds viewers why he became such an endearing figure in American television history; it's no wonder this special was met with high ratings upon its release! Its success can be attributed not only to the engaging storyline but also to the genuine chemistry between Knotts and Griffith, which continues to resonate with audiences even decades later.

  • No Deposit, No Return
    13
    David Niven, Darren McGavin, Don Knotts
    59 votes

    This family comedy stars Don Knotts as Bert Delaney, a bumbling private investigator who becomes entangled in the kidnapping of two children who have run away from home. Alongside his equally inept partner (played by Darren McGavin), Knotts delivers a hilarious performance that showcases his natural ability to make people laugh with even the simplest of gestures or facial expressions. The film's success lies in its charming blend of slapstick humor and heartwarming moments, creating an enjoyable viewing experience for audiences of all ages. It remains a beloved classic that is testament to Don Knotts's enduring appeal as a comedic actor.

  • The Prize Fighter
    14
    Don Knotts, Tim Conway, David Wayne
    43 votes

    Pairing up once again with Tim Conway, Don Knotts stars as trainer Shake Tiller alongside Conway's dim-witted boxer Bags Collins; together they must navigate their way through the shady world of boxing while trying to win matches against all odds! Their on-screen chemistry is just as strong here as ever before; it's no wonder they became one of cinema's most beloved comic duos. The film was successful thanks not only to its engaging story but also due to the undeniable chemistry between Knotts and Conway, which continues to entertain and delight audiences today.

  • Gus
    15
    Ed Asner, Don Knotts, Gary Grimes
    70 votes

    In this family comedy, Don Knotts plays Coach Venner, a lovable yet bumbling character who helps train a field-goal-kicking mule named Gus in order to save his struggling football team from being disbanded. As always, Knotts's comedic talents are on full display as he brings warmth and humor to this entertaining tale of unlikely heroes overcoming adversity together. The film's success can be attributed not only to its appealing premise but also to Knotts's endearing performance, which adds a layer of charm and hilarity that keeps audiences engaged throughout. Gus remains a beloved classic for fans of both Don Knotts and family-friendly comedies.

  • It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World
    16
    Spencer Tracy, Edie Adams, Milton Berle
    89 votes

    In this star-studded ensemble comedy about a group of strangers racing across America in search of hidden treasure, Don Knotts makes a memorable cameo appearance as Nervous Motorist - once again demonstrating his incredible talent for creating laughter with just a few lines of dialogue or simple gestures. Despite being surrounded by some of Hollywood's biggest comedic talents at the time (including Spencer Tracy, Milton Berle, and Sid Caesar), Knotts still manages to stand out with his unique brand of humor that has made him such an enduring figure in cinema history. This film was successful not only due its all-star cast but also because it showcased the individual talents of each performer - including Don Knotts - making it an unforgettable classic.

  • Hermie & Friends: Stanley the Stinkbug Goes to Camp
    17

    Hermie & Friends: Stanley the Stinkbug Goes to Camp

    Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Judge Reinhold
    27 votes

    In this animated children's film, Don Knotts lends his voice to the character of Hermie, a lovable caterpillar who helps his friend Stanley the Stinkbug learn important life lessons about friendship and self-acceptance at summer camp. Knotts's distinct voice perfectly complements his character's warmth and humor, making Hermie an endearing figure for young viewers. The film is successful not only because of its engaging story but also due to the talented voice cast led by Knotts, which brings these delightful characters to life in a way that resonates with audiences both young and old.

  • Max Lucado's Hermie & Friends: Flo: The Lyin' Fly
    18

    Max Lucado's Hermie & Friends: Flo: The Lyin' Fly

    Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence
    29 votes

    Continuing his role as Hermie in this series of animated children's films, Don Knotts once again brings warmth and humor to the character as he helps teach valuable lessons about honesty and trust through the story of Flo, a fly who struggles with telling the truth. As always, Knotts expertly uses his unique voice talents to create an engaging performance that captivates young audiences while delivering important moral messages. This film is successful not only because of its entertaining storyline but also due to the memorable characters brought vividly to life by Knotts and the talented voice cast.

  • Buzby the Misbehaving Bee
    19

    Buzby the Misbehaving Bee

    Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Tahj Mowry
    29 votes

    In another installment from Max Lucado's Hermie & Friends series, Don Knotts reprises his role as Hermie in this animated tale about Buzby - a mischievous bee who learns valuable lessons about following rules and respecting authority figures after causing chaos in their garden community. Once again showcasing his incredible voice talent, Knotts brings warmth and humor to the character of Hermie, making this film an engaging and educational experience for young viewers. The movie's success can be attributed not only to its important life lessons but also to the captivating performances delivered by Knotts and the rest of the talented voice cast.

  • The Love God?
    20
    Don Knotts, Anne Francis, Edmond O'Brien
    62 votes

    This satirical comedy sees Don Knotts in the role of Abner Audubon Peacock IV, a mild-mannered publisher who inadvertently becomes the figurehead for a risqué men's magazine after his failing bird-watching publication is taken over by unscrupulous business partners. As always, Knotts delivers a hilarious performance that expertly balances physical comedy with sharp wit, making this film an entertaining watch for fans of his work. Its success is derived from its clever script and Knotts's ability to bring depth and humor to every character he portrays.

  • Hermie & Friends: Webster the Scaredy Spider
    21
    24 votes

    Don Knotts continues his role as Hermie in this animated children's film that follows Webster, a timid spider who learns about courage and facing his fears with the help of his garden friends. As always, Knotts delivers a warm and humorous performance that endears him to audiences both young and old while teaching valuable life lessons along the way. The film is successful not only because of its engaging storyline but also due to the memorable characters brought vividly to life by Knotts and his fellow voice actors.

  • Air Buddies
    22
    Abigail Breslin, Michael Clarke Duncan, Molly Shannon
    40 votes

    In this direct-to-video installment of the popular "Air Bud" franchise, Don Knotts lends his voice talents to Sniffer - a wise and experienced bloodhound who helps guide a group of young talking puppies on their adventure-filled quest to rescue their parents. As always, Knotts brings warmth and humor through his vocal performance while adding depth to an otherwise comical character. This film is successful because of its heartwarming story and memorable characters like Sniffer, brought vividly to life by talented actors such as Don Knotts.

  • Move Over, Darling
    23
    Doris Day, James Garner, Polly Bergen
    44 votes

    In this screwball comedy classic starring Doris Day and James Garner, Don Knotts makes a memorable appearance as shoe salesman Shoe Clerk, delivering laughs with his unique style of physical comedy and impeccable timing. Despite having a smaller role in this star-studded cast, Knotts still manages to leave a lasting impression on audiences with his undeniable comedic talents. The movie's success can be attributed to its witty dialogue, engaging plot, and standout performances from actors like Don Knotts who make every scene shine.

  • Cannonball Run II
    24
    Burt Reynolds, Dom DeLuise, Shirley MacLaine
    56 votes

    In this star-studded sequel about an illegal cross-country road race filled with eccentric characters and wild antics, Don Knotts makes a memorable cameo appearance as CHP Officer - once again showcasing his incredible talent for creating laughter with just a few lines of dialogue or simple gestures. Despite being surrounded by some of Hollywood's biggest comedic talents at the time (including Burt Reynolds, Dom DeLuise, and Frank Sinatra), Knotts still manages to stand out with his unique brand of humor that has made him such an enduring figure in cinema history.

  • Chicken Little
    25
    Zach Braff, Joan Cusack, Don Knotts
    58 votes

    In Disney's animated retelling of this classic fable, Don Knotts lends his distinctive voice talents to Mayor Turkey Lurkey - a bumbling yet well-intentioned leader trying to prevent mass panic in their animal community after Chicken Little mistakenly believes the sky is falling. As always, Knotts brings warmth and humor through his vocal performance while adding depth to an otherwise comical character. This film is successful because of its visually stunning animation and its memorable characters like Mayor Turkey Lurkey, brought to life by talented actors such as Don Knotts.

  • An American Tail: The Treasure of Manhattan Island
    26
    Lacey Chabert, Ron Perlman, Don Knotts
    43 votes

    In this direct-to-video sequel from the popular "An American Tail" franchise, Don Knotts lends his voice talent as Scuttlebutt - an opportunistic rat who becomes embroiled in a treasure hunt adventure alongside Fievel Mousekewitz and his friends. As always, Knotts expertly uses his unique voice talents to create an engaging performance that captivates young audiences while delivering important moral messages throughout the film's entertaining storyline.

  • Cats Don't Dance
    27
    Scott Bakula, Jasmine Guy, Ashley Peldon
    40 votes

    In this animated musical comedy, Don Knotts lends his distinctive voice talents to T.W. Turtle - an anxious yet lovable sidekick who helps the film's protagonist Danny (a cat with dreams of becoming a Hollywood star) navigate the challenges of show business in 1930s Los Angeles. As always, Knotts brings warmth and humor through his vocal performance while adding depth to an otherwise comical character. This film is successful for its catchy songs, engaging storyline, and  memorable characters like T.W., brought vividly to life by talented actors such as Don Knotts.

  • Quints
    28
    Don Knotts, Robin Duke, Daniel Roebuck
    23 votes

    This Disney Channel Original Movie stars Don Knotts as Governor Preston, who becomes involved in the lives of a family with quintuplets after their story captures national attention. As always, Knotts delivers a charming and humorous performance that showcases his ability to bring warmth and depth to even the smallest of roles. The film's success can be attributed to its engaging plot and memorable performances from actors like Don Knotts who make every scene shine.

  • Big Bully
    29
    Rick Moranis, Tom Arnold, Julianne Phillips
    34 votes

    In this family comedy about facing childhood bullies and overcoming past traumas, Don Knotts makes a cameo appearance as Principal Kokelar - once again demonstrating his incredible talent for creating laughter with just a few lines of dialogue or simple gestures. Despite having a smaller role in this star-studded cast (including Rick Moranis and Tom Arnold), Knotts still manages to leave a lasting impression on audiences with his undeniable comedic talents.

  • Tom Sawyer
    30
    Rhett Akins, Mark Wills, Lee Ann Womack
    30 votes

    In this animated adaptation of Mark Twain's classic novel, Don Knotts lends his voice to the character of Mr. Dobbins - a strict yet bumbling schoolteacher who becomes entwined in the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. As always, Knotts brings warmth and humor through his vocal performance while adding depth to an otherwise comical character. This film is successful because of its faithful retelling of a beloved literary work and its memorable characters like Mr. Dobbins, brought vividly to life by talented actors such as Don Knotts.