Ranking Tom Hanks’ Most Memorable Comedies from the 1980s

Tom Hanks, a cinematic icon, rose to prominence in the 1980s with a series of comedic films that showcased his talent and charm. While he is now celebrated for his dramatic roles, his early comedies remain significant in the landscape of 1980s cinema. This article explores Hanks’ ten most notable comedic performances from that decade, highlighting their contributions to his career.

Tom Hanks’ Comedy Breakthrough in the 1980s

Hanks’ journey to stardom began with the success of Splash in 1984, which marked a turning point in his career. The film, where Hanks plays a man who falls in love with a mermaid, not only introduced him to mainstream audiences but also established him as a leading figure in comedy. Following this breakout role, Hanks starred in ten more comedies before the decade concluded, each showcasing his versatility and affable on-screen presence.

Hanks’ comedic repertoire of the 1980s includes a variety of genres, from raunchy sex comedies to family-friendly films. His ability to portray relatable characters made him a perfect fit for the comedic formula of the era, and audiences were drawn to his everyman persona.

Ranking Hanks’ Comedies

Starting with the less favorable, here are a few of Hanks’ performances that did not resonate as well with audiences:

The Man with One Red Shoe (1985) comes in at the bottom of the list. Hanks stars as a hapless violinist caught in a CIA conspiracy. The film, a remake of the French classic The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe, struggles to balance its thriller and comedy elements, resulting in a lackluster viewing experience.

Next is Volunteers (1985), where Hanks plays a wealthy playboy who stows away on a Peace Corps plane. Despite having a strong cast, including John Candy, the film suffers from an incoherent plot and unfulfilled comedic potential.

Moving up the list, Punchline (1988) features Hanks as a comic mentor to an aspiring stand-up comedian. While it attempts to capture the essence of the stand-up scene, the film ultimately falters in delivering consistent humor.

In Nothing In Common (1986), Hanks portrays an advertising executive facing personal challenges as his parents divorce. This film hints at Hanks’ future dramatic prowess but is marred by tonal inconsistencies.

On a lighter note, Dragnet (1987) presents a comedic take on the classic television show. Hanks, alongside Dan Aykroyd, delivers an enjoyable performance that adds some levity to the buddy cop genre.

The list continues with Bachelor Party (1984), where Hanks stars as a groom-to-be caught in a night of debauchery. While it embodies the raunchy spirit of the decade, Hanks’ comedic timing elevates the film beyond its more mundane peers.

As the decade progressed, Hanks transitioned into family-oriented comedies, exemplified by Turner & Hooch (1989). In this film, Hanks plays a detective who teams up with a mischievous dog to solve a murder. The film became a box office hit and remains a beloved family classic.

Another notable entry is The Money Pit (1986), where Hanks and his co-star navigate the trials of home ownership. The physical comedy and relatable scenarios resonate with audiences, making it one of Hanks’ standout comedic performances.

Closing out the decade is The ‘Burbs (1989), a horror-comedy that sees Hanks as a suburbanite drawn into a mystery involving his eccentric neighbors. The film deftly combines humor and suspense, showcasing Hanks’ ability to handle diverse comedic styles.

While Hanks is widely recognized for his dramatic roles today, his comedic contributions in the 1980s laid the foundation for his illustrious career. From the whimsical charm of Splash to the eerie humor of The ‘Burbs, each film reflects a unique facet of Hanks’ talent, solidifying his place in cinematic history.