Top 10 greatest movies starring 'Saturday Night Live' alums
by Shea Conner
Thursday, September 18, 2008

"Saturday Night Live" kicked off its season with a big show this past weekend. Swimming superstar Michael Phelps hosted and Tina Fey's impersonation of Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin was spot-on. Some are already calling it an instant classic. I have to admit, the "I can see Russia from my house" line had me laughing hysterically.

With that said, I knew it was time to come up with another top 10 movie countdown. In the spirit of "SNL," I give you the top 10 movies starring actors who were once part of the cast of "Saturday Night Live." There were a few films that I felt really bad about leaving off this list, so I included a list of honorable mentions at the bottom.

10. "Coming to America" (1988)

Eddie Murphy has had a long and prolific career that began with his stint on "SNL" from 1982-1984. After "Meet Dave" and "Norbit," it's almost hard to remember that Eddie Murphy was once funny. While "Trading Places" and his "Beverly Hills Cop" movies were very popular in the '80s, Murphy's best film was probably "Coming to America." The film follows Murphy's character as he willingly makes the transition from an African prince to an employee at McDowell's restaurant in Queens.

9. "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy" (2004)

Will Ferrell, who was part of "SNL" from 1995-2002, was probably the most memorable cast member of the late '90s. Although he turned in hilarious performances in "Old School" and "Talladega Nights," his most notable work is "Anchorman." Known for its one-liners, unique characters and absurdness, "Anchorman" had the chops (or in this case, the mustache) to edge out some of the more dated comedies starring "SNL" alums.

8. "The Wedding Singer" (1998)

While "Happy Gilmore" and "Billy Madison" are also a few favorites of mine, Adam Sandler ("SNL" cast member from 1990-1995) was outstanding in this movie. Sandler and Drew Barrymore had great chemistry and it was the first movie to make fun, yet embrace the '80s. And we all know that '80s need to be made fun of...even though we love reminiscing. Oh, and Billy Idol is in it.

7. "Tommy Boy" (1995)

I must admit, I have a soft spot for this one. Chris Farley said that when he was on "SNL" (from 1990-1995), he just played the same character at different volumes. But in "Tommy Boy," he showed his comedic versatility. Whether he was smashing his head into machinery or asking "where the weight room is," it was obvious that he had more talent than being big and loud. Of course, being paired with the super-sarcastic David Spade didn't hurt.

6. "National Lampoon's Vacation" (1983)

I enjoy "Christmas Vacation" just as much as this film, but we'll stick with this one for the countdown. As Clark Griswald, Chevy Chase ("SNL" cast member and writer from 1975-1976) is just a normal family man taking his wife and kids on a cross-country road trip to Wally World. After a series of misfortunate events, he's close to losing it. When Wally World is closed for repair, he finally does lose it. Chase and the rest of the family turn in great performances.

5. "This Is Spinal Tap" (1984)

Harry Shearer and Christopher Guest were part of the "SNL" cast from 1984-1985. Michael McKean started the same year and left in 1995. The three came together to form Spinal Tap 24 years ago. The amps are still turned up to 11. The band still can't find the stage. And this film is still the greatest rock parody of all-time.

4. "Caddyshack" (1980)

This movie made Chevy Chase and Bill Murray ("SNL" star in 1976-1977) comedy gods. Unfortunately, only Murray lasted through the '80s. Add in Rodney Dangerfield and a mischievous gopher and you have a comedy classic. And who doesn't remember that scene with the candy bar in the pool?

3. "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery" (1997)

The entire "Austin Powers" trilogy could go here, but just like the "Vacation" films, I'm only mentioning the original for the sake of this list. "Austin Powers" is easily the most quoted movie ever. You couldn't walk down the street without hearing "Yeah baby...yeeah." or "one million dollars." It was hilarious and had a huge impact on pop culture. And Myers' portrayal of multiple characters is what pushed the film to #3.

2. "The Blues Brothers" (1980)

Honestly, it was hard for me not to put this film at #1. This isn't just a funny movie, but a compelling action-adventure musical as well. Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, both "SNL" alums from 1975-1979, were a great duo as Elwood and Jake Blues. And this Belushi film stands the test of time, unlike "Animal House."

1. "Wayne's World" (1992)

Neither Mike Myers nor Dana Carvey will ever do a funnier movie. Sorry, Jake and Elwood, but these two are the most iconic characters in the history of "Saturday Night Live." This movie might be even funnier now than it was 16 years ago. Here are just some of the best scenes in this movie: Wayne and Garth dicussing how they will never "sell out" while incidentally plugging several name brands; the segment involving the show's new sponsor, Wayne and cue cards; any scene with Ed O' Neill; Garth's "Foxey Lady" dance; the Scooby-Doo ending; and, of course, the "Bohemian Rhapsody" car ride. If you haven't seen this movie in a while, watch it again and try telling me I'm wrong.

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

"Ghostbusters" (1984)

"National Lampoon's Animal House" (1978)

"Groundhog Day" (1993)

"Scrooged" (1988)

"Mean Girls" (2004)

"Billy Madison" (1995)

"Happy Gilmore" (1996)

"Trading Places" (1983)

"Three Amigos" (1986)

"Old School" (2000)

"Elf" (2003)

"Fletch" (1985)

"Spies Like Us" (1985)

"Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby" (2006)

"Rushmore" (1998)

"Hot Rod" (2007)

Source: Stjoenews