The 30 Best Movies With Steve Carell

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Updated April 12, 2024 62.9K views
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The best Steve Carell movies exemplify his remarkable versatility and talent in the realm of acting, making him a standout personality in Hollywood's star-studded landscape. With an extensive filmography that spans various genres, one can easily spot his comedic prowess and dramatic depth as he leaves an indelible mark on each production. Delving into these outstanding films, audiences will not only be captivated by the exceptional stories but also mesmerized by the sheer talent of this remarkable actor.

The exceptional selection of films that fall under the category of Steve Carell's best movies illustrates the actor's expertise in capturing the essence of diverse roles, leaving viewers enthralled and asking for more. These striking portrayals, encompassing an array of emotions and intricacies, serve as a testament to Carell's artistic virtuosity and scene-stealing ability on the big screen. Consequently, these movies with Steve Carell exhibit his mastery in blending humor and gravitas, earning him a well-deserved spot among Hollywood's finest.

Exploring the best movies of Steve Carell unveils the astonishing breadth of his acting prowess and his ability to captivate audiences with wildly diverse roles. In Crazy, Stupid, Love., Carell's heartfelt performance as a lovelorn divorcee tugs at the heartstrings, while his impeccable comedic timing lights up the screen in The 40-Year-Old Virgin. Additionally, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy features Carell's unforgettable portrayal of the hilariously dimwitted weatherman, Brick Tamland. These exceptional movies are just a glimpse into the best movies of Steve Carell, with each role further solidifying his prestige in the world of cinema.

Ultimately, the compelling Steve Carell filmography is a treasure trove of unforgettable performances, each one offering a unique glimpse into the actor's exceptional talent. Through his wide-ranging roles, Carell has not only proven his versatility in the industry but also established himself as a true cinematic icon. The best Steve Carell movies are a testament to his enduring impact on the silver screen, reflecting a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.

Most divisive: The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
Over 800 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 30 Best Movies With Steve Carell
  • The 40-Year-Old Virgin
    1
    Steve Carell, Catherine Keener, Paul Rudd
    245 votes

    The hilarious coming-of-age film The 40-Year-Old Virgin showcases Steve Carell's exceptional comedic talents as Andy Stitzer, a socially awkward and sexually inexperienced electronics store employee. Throughout this uproarious journey towards self-discovery, Andy receives questionable advice from his well-intentioned friends who only want to see him lose his virginity. Directed by Judd Apatow, this modern classic perfectly balances heartfelt moments with laugh-out-loud humor.

  • Crazy, Stupid, Love.
    2
    Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore
    203 votes

    In the sophisticated romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love, Steve Carell stars as Cal Weaver, a middle-aged man dealing with the aftermath of his wife's infidelity and requesting a divorce. This film expertly interweaves themes of love, lust, and heartbreak while maintaining its comedic undertones. As Cal navigates his newfound bachelorhood with the aid of charming womanizer Jacob Palmer (Ryan Gosling), he discovers that true love isn't always found where it's expected.

  • Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
    3
    Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd
    195 votes

    Set against the backdrop of 1970s San Diego, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy tells the story of an arrogant yet lovable news anchor named Ron Burgundy – played effortlessly by Will Ferrell. As a supporting character in this zany ensemble comedy cast, Steve Carell steals scenes as Brick Tamland – an amusingly dim-witted weatherman with no apparent filter or self-awareness.

  • Despicable Me
    4
    Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand
    174 votes

    Lending his vocal talents to the world of animation, Steve Carell stars as Gru – a supervillain struggling with his own insecurities and parental instincts – in Despicable Me. This family-friendly film captivates viewers with its heartwarming storyline, dynamic animation style, and memorable characters like the lovable Minions. Carell’s voice acting imbues Gru with depth and humor, making it an enduring favorite among audiences of all ages.

  • Little Miss Sunshine
    5
    Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette
    149 votes

    Steve Carell shines in this indie dramedy gem titled Little Miss Sunshine. He portrays Frank Ginsberg – an unemployed scholar struggling with depression – who embarks on a cross-country road trip with his dysfunctional family to support his young niece Olive (Abigail Breslin) at her beauty pageant competition. Aside from its dark humor and poignant family dynamics, Little Miss Sunshine showcases Carell's ability to transition seamlessly from comedy into more dramatic roles.

  • Bruce Almighty
    6
    Jim Carrey, Morgan Freeman, Jennifer Aniston
    149 votes

    In this divine comedy titled Bruce Almighty, Steve Carell plays Evan Baxter – a career-driven news anchor vying for a coveted position against Jim Carrey's titular character who is temporarily endowed with God-like powers. While Carrey takes center stage as the main protagonist, Carell provides ample support in their hilarious rivalry-turned-friendship that explores themes of faith and humility amid personal ambition.

  • Dan in Real Life
    7
    Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
    132 votes

    Demonstrating his versatility as an actor once again, Steve Carell stars in this heartfelt dramedy called Dan in Real Life. As widower and father-of-three Dan Burns (Carell), he finds himself falling unexpectedly for Marie (Juliette Binoche) during a tumultuous family gathering – only to discover she's already involved with his brother (Dane Cook). Carell's performance delicately balances humor and vulnerability, making Dan in Real Life a genuinely touching experience for viewers.

  • Get Smart
    8
    Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, Dwayne Johnson
    148 votes

    Based on a classic 1960s television series, Get Smart sees Steve Carell excel in the role of bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart. Alongside Anne Hathaway's savvy Agent 99, this comedic duo strives to thwart an evil organization's nefarious plans. Blending action-packed sequences with slapstick humor, Get Smart is a delightful reinvention of a beloved franchise that highlights Carell's mastery of physical comedy.

  • Date Night
    9
    Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg
    115 votes

    In the action-comedy Date Night, Steve Carell joins forces with Tina Fey to create an uproarious couple navigating a perilous night of mistaken identity and criminal encounters. As Phil and Claire Foster, their desperate attempts to reignite the spark in their marriage inadvertently plunge them into a dangerous underworld that tests not only their relationship but also their survival skills. Carell and Fey's chemistry shines throughout this chaotic-yet-hilarious adventure.

  • Dinner for Schmucks
    10
    Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Bruce Greenwood
    137 votes

    The outrageous comedy film Dinner for Schmucks pairs Steve Carell with Paul Rudd as mismatched acquaintances entangled in an elitist dinner party scheme. Showcasing his gift for physical comedy and comedic timing, Carell plays Barry – an eccentric taxidermist invited by Rudd's character Tim to a devious contest where wealthy elites bring oddball guests to ridicule them secretly. Through its eccentric premise and witty dialogue, Dinner for Schmucks provides ample laughter-inducing scenarios driven by strong performances from both lead actors.

  • Seeking a Friend for the End of the World
    11
    Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Adam Brody
    99 votes

    This thoughtfully crafted apocalyptic dramedy titled Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, sees Steve Carell star as Dodge Petersen – an insurance salesman grappling with life, love, and loss during humanity's final days on Earth. Opposite Keira Knightley as Penny Lockhart – his free-spirited neighbor – they embark on an introspective road trip that highlights poignant themes of human connection amidst despair.

  • Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
    12
    Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd
    98 votes

    Following up on its predecessor’s success, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues brings back Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell) and his eccentric news team, including Steve Carell's beloved weatherman Brick Tamland. The sequel sees the gang navigate the rise of 24-hour news cycles, with all the absurdity and hilarity that ensues. Carell's performance as Brick once again showcases his ability to deliver side-splitting one-liners and moments of unbridled comedic chaos.

  • Evan Almighty
    13
    Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman, Lauren Graham
    106 votes

    In this divine comedy sequel to Bruce Almighty, Steve Carell reprises his role as Evan Baxter – now a newly elected congressman tasked by God (Morgan Freeman) to build an ark in preparation for an impending flood. Evan Almighty puts Carell front and center, allowing him to showcase his impeccable comedic timing and physical humor while tackling themes of faith, family, and environmental stewardship.

  • Over the Hedge
    14
    Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell
    72 votes

    Adding another animated feature to his repertoire, Steve Carell lends his voice to Over the Hedge, portraying Hammy – a hyperactive squirrel who joins forces with other woodland creatures to reclaim their habitat from encroaching human development. With its charming animation style and endearing characters like Hammy, Over the Hedge offers laughter alongside important messages about conservation and community.

  • Minions: The Rise of Gru
    15
    Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson
    12 votes

    Continuing his reign as everyone's favorite supervillain, Steve Carell returns in Minions: The Rise of Gru. Set before the events of Despicable Me, this origin story delves into Gru's childhood dreams of supervillain greatness and how he creates an alliance with the titular Minions. As always, Carell’s vocal talents breathe life into Gru’s character, making this prequel yet another captivating entry in the beloved franchise.

  • Horton Hears a Who!
    16
    Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler
    65 votes

    Adapted from Dr.Seuss' classic children's tale comes Horton Hears a Who!, featuring Steve Carell as Mayor Ned McDodd – a well-meaning but somewhat bumbling leader of a microscopic community called Whoville. Alongside Jim Carrey's titular character Horton, the two embark on an imaginative adventure that highlights themes of friendship, bravery, and the importance of every voice – no matter how small.

  • Welcome to Marwen
    17

    Welcome to Marwen

    Steve Carell, Leslie Mann, Diane Kruger
    22 votes

    In this visually stunning and emotionally charged drama titled Welcome to Marwen, Steve Carell plays Mark Hogancamp – a man recovering from a brutal attack who creates an intricate miniature village as a form of therapy. Seamlessly blending live-action and animated sequences, Welcome to Marwen showcases Carell's ability to embody complex characters and navigate sensitive subject matters with grace and vulnerability.

  • Knocked Up
    18
    Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Paul Rudd
    95 votes

    Although playing a supporting role in Judd Apatow’s raunchy comedy Knocked Up, Steve Carell leaves his mark as Paul Rudd's hilariously clueless friend Jack. Amidst the uproarious main plot exploring the unexpected consequences of a one-night stand between Ben (Seth Rogen) and Alison (Katherine Heigl), Carell provides memorable scenes that add levity at just the right moments.

  • The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
    19
    Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi, Olivia Wilde
    74 votes

    Taking center stage in this comedic magician caper titled The Incredible Burt Wonderstone, Steve Carell stars alongside Steve Buscemi as washed-up Vegas magicians struggling to stay relevant amidst shifting tastes in entertainment. As Burt Wonderstone, Carell brings his unique brand of physical comedy and slapstick humor to create an amusingly delusional character whose journey towards self-discovery is both heartwarming and hilarious.

  • Hope Springs
    20
    Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Steve Carell
    21 votes

    In this touching romantic dramedy, Hope Springs, Steve Carell adopts a supporting role as Dr.Bernard Feld – a marriage therapist helping Kay (Meryl Streep) and Arnold (Tommy Lee Jones) rekindle their long-dormant passion after decades of marriage. While primarily known for his comedic prowess, Carell’s performance as the patient and empathetic Dr. Feld showcases his versatility as an actor.

  • Curly Sue
    21
    Jim Belushi, Kelly Lynch, Alisan Porter
    34 votes

    Though not a leading role in this early 90s family comedy titled Curly Sue, Steve Carell's appearance as Tesio – a waiter in an upscale restaurant – is worth noting for fans of the actor. Directed by John Hughes, Curly Sue tells the story of an adorable orphan girl (Alisan Porter) and her makeshift guardian (James Belushi) who navigate life on the streets together while encountering various comedic mishaps.

  • Bewitched
    22
    Nicole Kidman, Will Ferrell, Shirley MacLaine
    46 votes

    Loosely based on the beloved 1960s television series, Bewitched offers a modern take on the classic sitcom with Steve Carell playing Uncle Arthur – a mischievous warlock known for causing chaos wherever he goes. Starring Nicole Kidman as witch-turned-actress Isabel Bigelow and Will Ferrell as egotistical actor Jack Wyatt/Darrin Stevens, Bewitched provides magical antics and laughs throughout its runtime, with Carell adding to its charm through his supporting role.

  • Wake Up, Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie
    23
    Christina Applegate, Amy Poehler, Will Ferrell
    37 votes

    As an unconventional spin-off of sorts to Anchorman: The Legend of Ron BurgundyWake Up, Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie pieces together unused footage from the original film to create an entirely new storyline centered around bank-robbing hippies dubbed “The Alarm Clock.” Fans of the first movie will undoubtedly appreciate seeing more of Steve Carell's Brick Tamland and his endearingly clueless antics amidst this zany tale.

  • Sleepover
    24
    Alexa PenaVega, Mika Boorem, Scout Taylor-Compton
    33 votes

    In this teen comedy titled Sleepover, Steve Carell makes a brief appearance as Sherman “Sherm” Shafford – a grouchy security officer determined to catch some young troublemakers during their wild night out. While the film primarily targets a younger audience, Carell’s cameo offers some amusing moments for fans of all ages.

  • Hammy's Boomerang Adventure
    25
    Bruce Willis, Steve Carell, Garry Shandling
    18 votes

    This animated short titled Hammy's Boomerang Adventure serves as a companion piece to Over the Hedge, allowing Steve Carell to reprise his role as hyperactive squirrel Hammy who discovers an irresistibly entertaining boomerang. With its fun premise and endearing characters like Hammy, this delightful mini-adventure satisfied fans craving more adventures from the Over the Hedge universe.

  • Melinda and Melinda
    26
    Radha Mitchell, Chloë Sevigny, Jonny Lee Miller
    28 votes

    Directed by Woody Allen, Melinda and Melinda presents two contrasting narratives – one comedic and one tragic – centered around the same character named Melinda (Radha Mitchell). Steve Carell lends his talents to the lighter storyline as Walt Wagner – an aspiring actor whose relationship with the titular character adds levity to this unique exploration of life's dual nature.

  • Suits
    27
    Steve Carell, Robert Klein, Larry Pine
    18 votes

    While not a widely known film title, Suits boasts an appearance by Steve Carell in a supporting role as Bruno Alexander – a competitive co-worker of the main protagonist (Robert Klein) at a menswear company. Though not a blockbuster comedy or drama, Suits is worth exploring for those curious about Carell’s early work in cinema.

  • Cat and Dog
    28

    Cat and Dog

    Bud Spencer, Marc Lawrence, Tomas Milian
    19 votes

    In this obscure short film titled Cat and Dog, Steve Carell makes a brief appearance that showcases his talent for portraying quirky characters even in smaller projects. While hard to find, die-hard fans of Carell will appreciate viewing this lesser-known piece of his acting journey.

  • We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial
    29
    Denzel Washington, Sheryl Crow, Queen Latifah
    21 votes

    Though not a traditional film or performance piece, We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial features Steve Carell alongside other notable celebrities like Jack Black and Rosario Dawson as they read historical passages to commemorate President Barack Obama's inauguration. The event, documented on film, serves as a testament to the impact Carell and his fellow performers have made on popular culture.

  • Stories USA
    30
    Paris Hilton, Steve Carell, Paul Walker
    17 votes

    Comprised of six interconnected short films exploring diverse themes and genres, Stories USA includes a segment titled Member, which stars Steve Carell as Dr. Michael Sterling – a fertility specialist with questionable intentions. While not the primary focus of the overall project, this particular storyline provides another opportunity for viewers to appreciate Carell's acting prowess in a variety of contexts.