Ranking Tom Hanks’ Top Comedies from the 1980s

Tom Hanks remains a household name, largely due to his acclaimed dramatic performances. Yet, his **1980s comedies** hold a special place in cinematic history. The decade marked a significant period in Hanks’ career, beginning with the **1984** box office hit **Splash**, which propelled him into stardom. Over the course of the decade, he starred in ten additional comedy films, showcasing his versatility and comedic talent.

His charming persona made him a perfect fit for the era’s comedic roles, often portraying the relatable everyman. This article ranks some of Hanks’ notable comedies from the 1980s, illustrating his journey within the genre.

From Breakthrough to Iconic Roles

**The Man With One Red Shoe**, released in **1985**, marked a misstep for Hanks. In this film, he plays a hapless violinist caught in a CIA conspiracy. Despite its blend of thriller and comedy, the film failed to capture the essence of its original, the **1972** French film **The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe**. Critics noted that while Hanks’ charm shone through, the film ultimately fell flat, lacking both thrills and humor.

The same year, **Volunteers** also struggled to make an impact. Hanks starred alongside **John Candy** as a wealthy playboy escaping his gambling debts by joining the Peace Corps. Although the two actors had great chemistry, the film suffered from an unclear direction and too many storylines that diluted its comedic potential.

**Punchline**, released in **1988**, presented a different challenge, focusing on the world of stand-up comedy. Hanks played a comic mentoring an aspiring performer, but critics pointed out that the film often felt more like a drama than a comedy. Despite its strong cast, including **Sally Field**, the film was criticized for lacking humor and failing to capture the vibrancy of the stand-up scene of the late 1980s.

Comedy with Substance

One of Hanks’ more underrated films, **Nothing In Common**, released in **1986**, offered a glimpse of his dramatic capabilities. Portraying a successful advertising executive grappling with his parents’ divorce, Hanks balanced comedy with a thoughtful examination of yuppie culture. While the film had highlights, its tonal shifts sometimes disrupted the flow.

A notable departure from his earlier roles, **Dragnet**, released in **1987**, was a comedic take on the classic television series. Hanks starred alongside **Dan Aykroyd**, delivering a light-hearted performance that contributed to the film’s charm. Although not groundbreaking, it remains a fun homage to the buddy cop genre that was prevalent in the 1980s.

**Bachelor Party** in **1984** exemplified the raunchy sex comedies of the decade. Hanks played a groom-to-be embarking on a night of debauchery before his wedding. The film’s zany antics and Hanks’ increasingly exasperated performance struck a chord with audiences, making it a memorable entry in his comedy repertoire.

As the decade progressed, Hanks transitioned towards family-friendly films, notably **Turner & Hooch** in **1989**. This film introduced a new subgenre of cop-dog comedies, with Hanks playing a detective who teams up with a mischievous dog to solve a murder case. It received mixed reviews upon release but has since become a family classic, showcasing Hanks’ ability to charm audiences of all ages.

**The Money Pit**, released in **1986**, is often regarded as one of Hanks’ best comedies from the decade. The film revolves around a couple who purchase a dilapidated house, leading to a series of comedic misadventures. Hanks’ physical comedy shines as he navigates the chaos of home ownership gone wrong, making it relatable to many viewers.

Finally, **Splash** remains a significant film in Hanks’ career. The story of a man who falls in love with a mermaid not only introduced Hanks as a leading man but also encapsulated the whimsical charm of the era. Directed by **Ron Howard**, the film created a perfect blend of romance and humor, solidifying Hanks’ status in Hollywood.

**The ‘Burbs**, released in **1989**, closed out the decade on a high note. This horror-comedy directed by **Joe Dante** saw Hanks play a suburbanite drawn into a mystery involving his eccentric neighbors. The film cleverly satirizes suburban life, with Hanks delivering a performance that balances humor and suspense.

Tom Hanks’ journey through the comedy genre in the **1980s** illustrates his range as an actor. Each film, whether a success or a failure, contributed to his evolution in the entertainment industry. From charming performances in romantic comedies to his ability to navigate more complex narratives, Hanks’ work in this decade laid the groundwork for his illustrious career in Hollywood.