To start off the Twelve Days of Christmas, we have a ranked director list courtesy of film reviewer and media correspondent Robbie Fleming.
DISCLAIMER:
The following opinions are of the reviewer and do not reflect the opinions of
Keziah Hyde Media. Keziah Hyde Media is a non-profit media organization.
Review by Robbie Fleming
Now that Joker: Folie a Deux has come out (check out my review if you haven't already), I feel it's the perfect time to reflect and rank the films of Todd Phillips from my least favourite to my favourite.
Growing up with his 00s raunchy comedy classics, I’ve always had a soft spot for him as a director and he's always been one that I’ve rated since he knows how to make a fun and entertaining film.
Its style of filmmaking might not be for everyone but I think he's a talented director who brings a unique approach to this film and that is why I think highly of him. Now with that said and done, let's crack on with this list.
11. School for Scoundrels (2006)
Studio: MGM
Kicking off this list is School for Scoundrels, a forgettable remake of a 60s British film that only feels like it was made because the cast and crew were coming in hot off the projects that came before it. The plot isn’t engaging, the characters are bland and the jokes don’t land or feel unfunny. Whilst I do like Jon, this wasn’t Napoleon Dynamite and this certainly wasn’t Billy Bob Thornton's time to shine either. Out of all of Todd Phillips’ films, this is the one I wouldn’t revisit and I bet even Todd forgets he’s made it.
10. The Hangover: Part 3 (2013)
Studio: Warner Bros.
In 10th place is The Hangover: Part 3, the final chapter of the Hangover trilogy. Whilst I do give this film credit for attempting a new premise rather than rehashing the same formula the first two films did, that premise isn’t interesting. The jokes aren't funny, the tone feels all over the place and the whole film just goes completely over the top.
9. Starsky and Hutch (2004)
Studio: Miramax
In 9th place is Starsky and Hutch, another Ben Stiller/Owen Wilson Collaboration that sees them place these iconic 70’s TV detectives. From what I remember, this film had some fun moments with Snoop Dogg stealing the show as Huggy Bear but I don’t remember liking it as much compared to Phillips’ other films. I’m sure if i gave it a rewatch, I’d enjoy it more but in the meantime, I’m going to rank it here as I don’t remember much about it
8. The Hangover: Part 2 (2011)
Studio: Warner Bros.
In 8th place is The Hangover: Part 2, the first sequel that Phillips directed. Whilst it's another fun entry in this comedy trilogy and it's nice to see Bangkok used as a fun setting, the film is essentially the first film again but with a new location and new stakes. Whilst its nice to see the wolfpack on another adventure, a new formula and structure could have made this one better.
7. Due Date (2010)
Studio: Warner Bros.
In 7th place is Due Due, a film that sees Robert Downey Jr and Zach Galifianakis as two strangers who end up going on a road trip together after they get kicked off a plane. Whilst I praise the chemistry between Downey Jr & Galifianakis and the film’s humour, the film is basically a remake of Plane, Trains & Automobiles. If you like that film you might get some enjoyment out of it because of the film’s comedy elements, I kinda wish Phillips went with something more Original.
6. Joker: Folie A Deux (2024)
Studio: DC Studios, Warner Bros.
Just missing the top 5 is Joker Folie A Deux, the second sequel in Phillip’s filmography. Joker: Folie A Deux is Phillip’s best shot film, its story is what lets it down as it tries to be a musical, a prison film and a courtroom drama at the same time. I don’t think it's a completely bad film as its visuals and performance shine but honestly, I didn't think this was a completely needed sequel.
5. Old School (2003)
Studio: Dreamworks
Old School kicks off the top 5 and funnily enough, this was the first film I saw from Phillips. Thanks to its comedic moments, interesting storyline and fun performances from Luke Wilson, Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughan, Old School feels like a comedy classic that you rarely see these days. It's when I watch films like this that made me hope that Phillips would return to the world of comedy one day.
4. War Dogs (2016)
Studio: Warner Bros.
In 4th Place, we have War Dogs, a film where Phillips tries to take directing more seriously and brings us this comedy-drama about two wannabe arms dealers played by Jonah Hill and Miles Tellers. War Dogs shines thanks to its story and performances as well as showcasing that Phillips is more than just a director who makes silly comedy films. This serious approach is what got Phillips more recognition as an established director and I was happy that he took a different step in his career path for making this film
3. Road Trip (2000)
Studio: Dreamworks
My Bronze pick is Phillip’s directorial debut film: Road Trip, which used to be one of my favourite films growing up. Whilst the humour might be dated for today’s standards, I think it's still an iconic comedy film that shines in its fun story and energetic performances that carry the film. For his first film, Phillips not only crafted a solid comedy film but help launched an era for these 2000s comedy films to take off for a new generation.
2. The Hangover (2009)
Studio: Warner Bros.
My favourite comedy film from Phillips takes the silver pick on this list thanks to its unique premise and humour. Thanks to Phillips’ directing and screenplay, The Hangover stands out as a comedy classic that's still just as funny on rewatching, even when you know the ending is coming. The film also launched the careers of many actors including Ed Helms and Bradley Cooper, who have Phillips to thank for letting them shine in this film.
1. Joker (2019)
Studio: Warner Bros.
Number 1 and my favourite film of Todd Phillips is Joker. This unique take on the iconic DC villain makes for an interesting arthouse drama reminiscent of the work of Martin Scorsese. Joaquin Phoenix steals the show, the cinematography is beautiful and the score also helps elevate the film’s tone perfectly. Even though its sequel was a bit disappointing, I still hold the first film high for being a different take on a comic book film. Joker shows Phillip has the right tool to be a great director and that's why I regard it as his best film and why I rank it as number 1 on this list.
That is my list, how’d you rank Todd Phillips’ filmography? Which directors should I cover next? Let us know in the comments down below!
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