25 Best Melissa McCarthy Movies: The Unstoppable Force of Laughter and Heart

Melissa McCarthy is a highly talented and versatile actress known for her comedic timing, improvisational skills, and charismatic presence on screen. She has made a significant impact in the world of comedy films, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan following.

From her breakthrough role in “Bridesmaids” to her numerous other comedic performances, McCarthy has established herself as a leading lady in Hollywood. Here is an introduction to some of the best Melissa McCarthy movies.

Best Melissa McCarthy Movies

McCarthy’s ability to bring humor and heart to her characters has made her a beloved figure in the world of comedy films, and her performances continue to delight audiences worldwide.

1. Go (1999)

“Go” is a 1999 American crime comedy film directed by Doug Liman and starring Sarah Polley, Katie Holmes, and Timothy Olyphant. The film tells three interconnected stories that take place over the course of one night, all centered around drug use and related criminal activities.

The first story follows Ronna (Sarah Polley), a supermarket clerk who is trying to make ends meet by selling drugs on the side. When her supplier unexpectedly leaves town, Ronna and her friends are forced to take desperate measures to come up with the money they owe.

The second story focuses on Simon (Desmond Askew), a British tourist who is looking for a good time in Los Angeles. After getting involved with a group of drug dealers, Simon finds himself in over his head and on the run from the police.

The third and final story follows Adam (Scott Wolf) and Zack (Jay Mohr), two friends who are heading to a rave in Las Vegas. Along the way, they run into a series of mishaps and misadventures, including a run-in with a violent gangster played by Timothy Olyphant.

“Go” was praised for its fast-paced, energetic style and its clever interweaving of multiple storylines. The film’s dark humor and edgy subject matter also earned it a cult following among fans of independent cinema.

2. Drowning Mona (2000)

“Drowning Mona” is a black comedy film directed by Nick Gomez and released in 2000. The film is set in the fictional town of Verplanck, New York, and follows the investigation into the death of Mona Dearly, a hated local woman who drives her car into the river and drowns.

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that nearly everyone in the town had a motive for wanting Mona dead, including her estranged husband, her son, her lover, and even the local police chief.

The film features a star-studded cast, including Bette Midler as Mona, Danny DeVito as the police chief, and Neve Campbell as Mona’s daughter.

“Drowning Mona” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the film’s quirky humor and ensemble cast, while others found it overly contrived and predictable.

Nevertheless, the film has since gained a cult following among fans of offbeat comedy and dark humor.

3. Charlie’s Angels (2000)

“Charlie’s Angels” is an action-comedy film released in 2000, directed by McG and starring Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu.

The film is based on the 1970s TV series of the same name and follows the adventures of three female private investigators: Natalie (played by Cameron Diaz), Dylan (played by Drew Barrymore), and Alex (played by Lucy Liu).

The trio is recruited by the mysterious Charlie (voiced by John Forsythe) to solve a series of high-profile crimes, including the theft of a powerful software program.

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As the Angels race to uncover the truth behind the theft, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a corrupt businessman (played by Sam Rockwell) and a dangerous hitman (played by Crispin Glover). Along the way, they use their wits, charm, and martial arts skills to outsmart their foes and save the day.

“Charlie’s Angels” was a box office success, grossing over $264 million worldwide. The film’s stylish visuals, high-energy action sequences, and comedic performances were praised by audiences and critics alike, and it spawned two sequels and a reboot TV series.

4. Pumpkin (2002)

“Pumpkin” is a 2002 dark comedy-drama film directed by Anthony Abrams and Adam Larson Broder. The film stars Christina Ricci as a sorority girl named Carolyn who falls in love with a mentally challenged man named Pumpkin (played by Hank Harris).

The film explores themes of beauty, social status, and ableism as Carolyn becomes increasingly attached to Pumpkin and begins to challenge her own prejudices and those of her sorority sisters. The film also features Brenda Blethyn, Dominique Swain, Marisa Coughlan, and Sam Ball in supporting roles.

“Pumpkin” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its willingness to tackle sensitive subjects and others criticizing it for its portrayal of disability.

Despite the controversy, the film gained a cult following and has been praised for its dark humor and subversive take on romantic comedies.

The film’s soundtrack features contributions from a variety of indie rock and alternative bands, including The Flaming Lips and The Shins. Overall, “Pumpkin” is a challenging and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on issues of identity and acceptance.

5. The Third Wheel (2002)

“The Third Wheel” is a romantic comedy film released in 2002, directed by Jordan Brady and starring Luke Wilson, Denise Richards, and Jay Lacopo.

The film follows the misadventures of a socially awkward man named Stanley (played by Luke Wilson) who accidentally gets locked out of his apartment on Valentine’s Day and ends up spending the evening with a woman named Diana (played by Denise Richards) who is having relationship troubles with her boyfriend.

Stanley, who works as a toll booth operator, has long harbored a secret crush on Diana, who works in the same building.

When he gets locked out of his apartment, he runs into Diana who is crying outside her apartment after a fight with her boyfriend. Stanley offers to take Diana out for dinner to help her forget her troubles, and the two embark on a series of misadventures as they try to find a place to eat, encounter eccentric characters, and get caught in various awkward situations.

As the night unfolds, Stanley and Diana’s unexpected date takes them on a wild and humorous journey through the city, with Stanley hoping to win Diana’s affections while she tries to reconcile her feelings for her boyfriend.

The film explores themes of love, relationships, and the challenges of finding a connection with another person, as well as the comedic situations that arise from their misadventures.

“The Third Wheel” received mixed reviews from critics and was not a commercial success at the box office.

However, it has gained a cult following for its quirky humor and charming performances by Luke Wilson and Denise Richards. The film offers a lighthearted and humorous take on romance and the complexities of relationships, with a touch of awkwardness and offbeat charm.

6. White Oleander (2002)

“White Oleander” is a 2002 drama film directed by Peter Kosminsky, based on the novel of the same name by Janet Fitch.

The film stars Alison Lohman as Astrid Magnussen, a young girl who is sent to a series of foster homes after her mother, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, is imprisoned for murder.

Melissa McCarthy plays the role of Rae Lindley, one of the foster mothers in the film.

While McCarthy’s role in “White Oleander” is a supporting one, her performance is notable for its emotional depth and complexity. Here are some reasons why “White Oleander” is worth watching for Melissa McCarthy’s performance:

Dramatic Range: In “White Oleander,” Melissa McCarthy showcases her versatility as an actress by taking on a dramatic role.

Her portrayal of Rae Lindley, a foster mother struggling with her own issues, is both tender and heartbreaking. McCarthy brings depth and nuance to her character, conveying a wide range of emotions from vulnerability to anger to sadness.

Supporting Role: While McCarthy may not have a leading role in “White Oleander,” her performance as Rae Lindley is a standout among the ensemble cast. She delivers a memorable performance, making the most of her screen time and leaving a lasting impression with her portrayal of a complex character.

Character Complexity: Rae Lindley is a multifaceted character with her own struggles and demons, and McCarthy captures the intricacies of her character with authenticity. She brings layers to Rae, showcasing her internal conflicts, vulnerabilities, and moments of empathy, making her more than just a one-dimensional supporting character.

Dramatic Storyline: “White Oleander” is a compelling and emotionally charged story that delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly the bond between a mother and daughter. McCarthy’s performance adds depth to the overall narrative, contributing to the emotional impact of the film.

Overall, Melissa McCarthy’s performance in “White Oleander” is a testament to her acting skills and versatility as an actress.

While known for her comedic roles, McCarthy’s dramatic turn in this film showcases her ability to tackle complex characters and deliver powerful performances in a different genre.

Fans of McCarthy’s work and those looking for a moving drama with strong performances should definitely check out “White Oleander.”

8. The Life of David Gale (2003)

“The Life of David Gale” is a 2003 American drama film directed by Alan Parker and starring Kevin Spacey, Kate Winslet, and Laura Linney.

The film tells the story of a respected professor and activist named David Gale (Kevin Spacey) who is sentenced to death for the rape and murder of a fellow activist (Rhona Mitra).

As Gale awaits his execution, he agrees to be interviewed by a journalist named Bitsey Bloom (Kate Winslet) in an attempt to clear his name and expose the flaws in the death penalty system. The film explores themes of morality, justice, and the corrupting influence of power.

Critics had mixed reactions to the film, with some praising the performances of the lead actors and the film’s gripping storyline, while others criticized its heavy-handed approach to its political message.

The film was also the subject of controversy due to its portrayal of the death penalty and its use of graphic violence. Despite this, “The Life of David Gale” remains a notable entry in the genre of socially conscious dramas and has since gained a following among fans of the lead actors and director.

9. The Nines (2007)

“The Nines” is a science-fiction thriller film directed by John August and released in 2007.

The film consists of three interconnected stories that revolve around a troubled television writer named Gavin, played by Ryan Reynolds, who finds himself trapped in a mysterious house with no memory of how he got there.

As Gavin tries to unravel the mystery of his situation, he becomes increasingly entangled in a web of alternate realities and parallel universes, each with its own set of strange and surreal circumstances.

“The Nines” received generally positive reviews upon its release, with critics praising its inventive storytelling and Reynolds’ performance.

The film was noted for its mind-bending plot twists and its exploration of themes such as identity, free will, and the nature of reality.

While “The Nines” may not be for everyone, it is a unique and thought-provoking film that offers a fresh take on the sci-fi genre.

10. Cook Off! (2007)

 “Cook Off!” from 2007. However, there is a mockumentary-style comedy film called “Cook Off!” released in 2017, directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem, and starring Cathryn Michon, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Melissa McCarthy, and other notable comedic actors.

The film follows a group of amateur cooks who compete in a national cook-off, with their personal lives and relationships being explored throughout the competition.

The film was originally shot in 2007 but was not released until 2017. It received mixed reviews from critics but was generally praised for its humorous performances and heartwarming moments.

11. Just Add Water (I) (2008)

“Just Add Water” is a dark comedy film released in 2008, directed by Hart Bochner and starring Dylan Walsh, Jonah Hill, and Danny DeVito.

The film follows the life of Ray Tuckby (played by Dylan Walsh), a hapless water treatment plant worker living in the small town of Trona, California. Ray is married to a controlling and abusive wife (played by Tracy Middendorf) and dreams of escaping his dead-end life.

However, his plans are disrupted when a mysterious stranger named Merl (played by Danny DeVito) arrives in town, offering Ray a chance to make some quick cash by engaging in a series of shady business deals.

As Ray becomes more involved in Merl’s schemes, he finds himself embroiled in a web of deception and violence, leading to unexpected consequences for himself and the people around him.

“Just Add Water” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its quirky humor and offbeat characters, while others criticized its uneven pacing and lack of focus.

The film was not a box office success and has since become a cult classic among fans of dark comedies.

12. Pretty Ugly People (2008)

“Pretty Ugly People” is a 2008 independent comedy-drama film written and directed by Tate Taylor. The film follows a group of college friends who reunite ten years after graduation for a weekend in the wilderness.

The cast includes Missi Pyle, Melissa McCarthy, Octavia Spencer, and Josh Hopkins, among others.

The film explores themes of self-image, personal growth, and friendship as the characters confront their insecurities and disappointments.

Each character has their own challenges to face, from weight issues to career struggles, and the weekend becomes a catalyst for them to reevaluate their lives and relationships.

“Pretty Ugly People” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the cast’s performances and the film’s honest portrayal of body image and self-acceptance, while others found the film uneven in tone and lacking in depth.

Despite the mixed critical reception, the film gained a small following and has been appreciated for its warm-hearted humor and relatable characters.

Overall, “Pretty Ugly People” is a charming and uplifting film that celebrates the diversity and complexity of human experience. It offers a refreshing take on the traditional “reunion” genre, emphasizing empathy and personal growth over nostalgia and sentimentality.

13. The Back-up Plan (2010)

“The Back-up Plan” is a romantic comedy film released in 2010, directed by Alan Poul and starring Jennifer Lopez and Alex O’Loughlin.

The film follows the story of a woman named Zoe (played by Jennifer Lopez) who, after becoming frustrated with her lack of success in finding love, decides to have a baby through artificial insemination.

However, on the same day she becomes pregnant, she meets the charming Stan (played by Alex O’Loughlin), and their budding romance complicates her plans.

Zoe, a successful and independent woman, decides to take matters into her own hands and become a single mother through artificial insemination.

But on the same day she becomes pregnant, she meets Stan, a charismatic and charming man. As their relationship develops, Zoe must navigate the challenges of balancing her pregnancy with her newfound romance, all while dealing with her quirky support system of friends and family.

“The Back-up Plan” explores themes of love, relationships, and the complexities of starting a family in non-traditional ways.

The film portrays the challenges and joys of pregnancy, parenthood, and romantic relationships, with a blend of humor and heartfelt moments. It delves into the ups and downs of finding love and building a family, and the sacrifices and compromises that come with it.

While “The Back-up Plan” received mixed reviews from critics, it has been praised for Jennifer Lopez’s performance and its light-hearted approach to modern relationships and parenthood.

The film offers a relatable and entertaining portrayal of the challenges and joys of navigating love, relationships, and family planning in contemporary society.

14. Life as We Know It (2010)

“Life as We Know It” is a 2010 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Greg Berlanti. The film stars Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel as two individuals who are unexpectedly thrown into the role of co-parenting their goddaughter after the death of their mutual friends.

Melissa McCarthy plays the role of DeeDee, a friend of the main characters. Here are some reasons why “Life as We Know It” is worth watching for Melissa McCarthy’s performance:

Comedic Timing: Melissa McCarthy is known for her impeccable comedic timing, and she brings her signature humor to the role of DeeDee in “Life as We Know It.”

Her scenes provide levity and comic relief in an otherwise emotional and heartfelt film, adding a spark of humor to the story.

Scene-stealing Moments: McCarthy’s character, DeeDee, is eccentric and outgoing, and McCarthy fully embraces the role, delivering memorable and scene-stealing moments throughout the film. Her comedic presence adds an extra layer of entertainment to the overall story, making her character stand out.

Chemistry with Co-stars: McCarthy’s chemistry with her co-stars, Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel, is evident in the film. She plays off their characters’ reactions and delivers her lines with wit and charm, creating a dynamic on-screen presence that enhances the overall comedic tone of the film.

Supporting Role: While McCarthy’s role in “Life as We Know It” is a supporting one, she makes a lasting impression with her performance. Her character, DeeDee, brings a unique personality and energy to the film, and McCarthy’s comedic talents shine in this supporting role.

Heartwarming Story: “Life as We Know It” is not only a comedy, but also a heartwarming story about unexpected parenthood and the challenges and joys that come with it. McCarthy’s performance adds warmth and humor to the story, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of both comedy and heartfelt dramas.

Overall, Melissa McCarthy’s performance in “Life as We Know It” adds comedic flair and entertainment value to the film.

Her comedic timing, scene-stealing moments, chemistry with co-stars, and contribution to the heartwarming story make her performance a standout in this romantic comedy-drama. Fans of Melissa McCarthy’s work or those looking for a heartwarming comedy should consider checking out “Life as We Know It.”

15. Bridesmaids (I) (2011)

“Bridesmaids” is a 2011 American comedy film directed by Paul Feig and starring Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, and Rose Byrne.

The film follows Annie (Kristen Wiig), a struggling and unhappy single woman who is asked to be the maid of honor at her best friend Lillian’s (Maya Rudolph) wedding.

As Annie tries to plan the perfect wedding events, she finds herself competing with the other bridesmaids, including Lillian’s wealthy and seemingly perfect friend Helen (Rose Byrne). Along the way, Annie’s own personal and professional life begins to unravel, leading to a series of hilarious and sometimes cringe-worthy mishaps.

“Bridesmaids” was widely praised for its hilarious script, relatable characters, and spot-on performances from its ensemble cast.

The film was also notable for its depiction of female friendships and the often chaotic and messy nature of weddings. “Bridesmaids” was a box office success and has since become a beloved classic in the comedy genre, inspiring a wave of similarly themed films and cementing its place in popular culture.

16. This Is 40 (2012)

“This Is 40” is a comedy-drama film written, directed, and produced by Judd Apatow and released in 2012.

The film stars Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann, reprising their roles as Pete and Debbie from Apatow’s previous film “Knocked Up,” as they navigate the ups and downs of married life and parenting.

The film explores the challenges of turning 40, including midlife crises, relationship struggles, and the difficulties of raising children in the modern world. It also features a star-studded cast, including Jason Segel, Megan Fox, and Melissa McCarthy.

“This Is 40” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its relatable humor and strong performances, while others found it overly long and unfocused.

Nevertheless, the film was a box office success and has since become a cult favorite among fans of Apatow’s brand of irreverent, slice-of-life comedy.

17. Identity Thief (2013)

Identity Thief is a 2013 American comedy film directed by Seth Gordon and starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy.

The film follows the story of a businessman named Sandy Patterson (Bateman) who has his identity stolen by a con artist named Diana (McCarthy). Desperate to clear his name and reclaim his credit score, Sandy travels from Denver to Florida to track down Diana and bring her to justice.

As the two mismatched characters embark on a cross-country road trip, they encounter a series of comedic mishaps and unexpected obstacles, leading to a surprising and heartwarming conclusion. The film explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of human connection.

Identity Thief received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the chemistry between Bateman and McCarthy and the film’s humorous tone, while others criticized the plot for being predictable and formulaic.

However, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $170 million worldwide. Overall, Identity Thief is a lighthearted and entertaining comedy that offers plenty of laughs and heart.

18. The Hangover Part III (2013)

“The Hangover Part III” is a comedy film released in 2013, directed by Todd Phillips and starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis.

The film is the third and final installment in “The Hangover” film series and follows the misadventures of Phil (played by Bradley Cooper), Stu (played by Ed Helms), and Alan (played by Zach Galifianakis) as they embark on a road trip to Las Vegas to intervene in Alan’s personal crisis.

However, their plans are derailed when they cross paths with a gangster named Marshall (played by John Goodman), who kidnaps Doug (played by Justin Bartha) and demands that the Wolfpack find and capture their old friend Leslie Chow (played by Ken Jeong), who has stolen millions of dollars in gold from him.

As the Wolfpack races to find Chow and recover the stolen gold, they encounter a series of outrageous and dangerous situations, including a high-speed chase through the streets of Las Vegas and a thrilling helicopter pursuit in the desert.

“The Hangover Part III” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its darker and more action-packed tone, while others criticized its lack of humor and reliance on tired gags from the previous films.

The film was a box office success, grossing over $362 million worldwide, but it marked the end of the franchise.

19. The Heat (I) (2013)

“The Heat” is a 2013 action-comedy film directed by Paul Feig and starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. The film follows Sarah Ashburn (Bullock), an uptight FBI agent, who teams up with Shannon Mullins (McCarthy), a foul-mouthed Boston cop, to take down a drug lord.

The film is notable for its female-led cast and crew, including director Feig, writer Katie Dippold, and producer Jenno Topping.

“The Heat” was a commercial success, grossing over $229 million worldwide, and received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the chemistry between Bullock and McCarthy and the film’s raunchy humor.

In addition to Bullock and McCarthy, the film features supporting performances from actors including Demián Bichir, Marlon Wayans, and Michael Rapaport.

The film’s soundtrack includes contributions from a variety of artists, including Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, and Alice Russell.

Overall, “The Heat” is a fun and energetic action-comedy that showcases the comedic talents of its female stars. The film offers a fresh take on the buddy cop genre and highlights the importance of strong and diverse representation in Hollywood.

20. Tammy (2014)

“Tammy” is a comedy film released in 2014, directed by Ben Falcone and starring Melissa McCarthy in the title role.

The film follows the misadventures of a down-on-her-luck woman named Tammy, who, after experiencing a series of setbacks, embarks on a road trip with her foul-mouthed, hard-drinking grandmother, Pearl, played by Susan Sarandon.

Tammy is a woman in her thirties who is struggling with multiple challenges in her life, including losing her job and her husband cheating on her.

In a moment of frustration, she decides to hit the road and escape her troubles, and her grandmother Pearl, who has her own share of issues, joins her.

As the mismatched duo embark on a road trip, they encounter a variety of colorful characters, get into comical mishaps, and engage in unexpected adventures.

The film explores themes of family, self-discovery, and finding one’s place in the world. Tammy and Pearl’s journey is filled with humorous situations and unexpected bonding moments, as they come to understand each other better and confront their own personal challenges along the way.

“Tammy” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Melissa McCarthy’s comedic performance, as well as the chemistry between her and Susan Sarandon.

The film offers a blend of physical comedy and situational humor, with moments of heartfelt connection between the characters. “Tammy” is an entertaining comedy that explores the complexities of family dynamics and self-acceptance, with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.

21. St. Vincent (2014)

“St. Vincent” is a 2014 comedy-drama film directed by Theodore Melfi.

The film stars Bill Murray as Vincent MacKenna, a cantankerous and unconventional older man, and Melissa McCarthy as Maggie Bronstein, a single mother who moves in next door with her young son Oliver, played by Jaeden Martell.

Melissa McCarthy’s performance in “St. Vincent” is notable for her portrayal of a struggling single mother trying to make ends meet and provide for her son. Here are some reasons why “St. Vincent” is worth watching for Melissa McCarthy’s performance:

Dramatic Role: While Melissa McCarthy is known for her comedic roles, “St. Vincent” showcases her ability to take on more dramatic roles.

Her portrayal of Maggie, a single mother dealing with financial challenges and personal struggles, is heartfelt and authentic. McCarthy effectively conveys the vulnerability, resilience, and love of a mother trying to do her best for her son.

Emotional Range: McCarthy’s performance in “St. Vincent” demonstrates her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. She portrays the complexities of Maggie’s character with sincerity, depicting her as a multi-dimensional character with both strength and vulnerability.

McCarthy’s performance brings depth and authenticity to the emotional moments in the film.

Chemistry with Co-stars: McCarthy’s chemistry with her co-stars, including Bill Murray and Jaeden Martell, is a highlight of the film. Her interactions with Murray’s character, Vincent, and her son Oliver, played by Martell, are poignant and believable.

McCarthy’s performance adds depth to the relationships between the characters, contributing to the emotional core of the story.

Realistic Portrayal of Motherhood: McCarthy’s portrayal of a single mother in “St. Vincent” is grounded and relatable. She depicts the challenges and sacrifices of motherhood, as well as the unwavering love and determination that comes with it.

Her performance captures the struggles and joys of being a mother in a realistic and heartfelt manner.

Balancing Comedy and Drama: “St. Vincent” is a film that balances comedy and drama, and McCarthy’s performance exemplifies this balance.

She brings her comedic talents to certain moments in the film, providing humor and levity, while also delivering poignant and emotional performances in more dramatic scenes.

Overall, Melissa McCarthy’s performance in “St. Vincent” is a standout, showcasing her range as an actress and her ability to convey both humor and drama with authenticity.

Her portrayal of a single mother navigating life’s challenges is heartfelt and relatable, contributing to the emotional depth of the film.

Fans of McCarthy’s work or those looking for a film that combines comedy and drama should consider watching “St. Vincent.”

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22. Spy (2015)

“Spy” is a 2015 American action comedy film written and directed by Paul Feig and starring Melissa McCarthy, Jason Statham, and Rose Byrne. The film follows the story of Susan Cooper (Melissa McCarthy), a desk-bound CIA analyst who volunteers to go undercover in order to prevent a global disaster.

As Susan embarks on her first mission in the field, she must use her skills and intelligence to outsmart dangerous enemies and navigate a world of international espionage.

Along the way, she works alongside a suave and arrogant agent named Bradley Fine (Jude Law) and a bumbling but loyal colleague named Rick Ford (Jason Statham).

“Spy” received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, who praised its hilarious script, strong performances, and clever twists on the traditional spy movie genre.

Melissa McCarthy’s performance in particular was widely acclaimed, earning her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.

The film was also a box office success and has since become a fan favorite in the comedy and action genres.

23. The Boss (2016)

“The Boss” is a comedy film directed by Ben Falcone and released in 2016. The film stars Melissa McCarthy as Michelle Darnell, a wealthy businesswoman who is sent to prison for insider trading.

After her release, she must rebuild her empire and reputation from scratch, with the help of her long-suffering assistant, Claire, played by Kristen Bell.

As Michelle tries to redeem herself and regain her position as a business mogul, she must confront her past mistakes and learn to be a better person, both in her personal and professional life.

“The Boss” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising McCarthy’s performance and the film’s humorous take on corporate culture, while others found it formulaic and uninspired.

Nevertheless, the film was a commercial success and has since gained a following among fans of McCarthy’s irreverent brand of comedy.

24. Central Intelligence (2016)

Central Intelligence is a 2016 American action comedy film directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber and starring Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart.

The film follows the story of a former bullied overweight high school student named Bob (Johnson) who becomes a lethal CIA agent, and enlists the help of his former schoolmate, accountant Calvin (Hart), to help him uncover a dangerous plot.

As the two unlikely partners embark on a dangerous mission, they encounter a series of action-packed and comedic set pieces, including car chases, shootouts, and espionage antics. The film also explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of self-acceptance.

Central Intelligence received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the chemistry between Johnson and Hart and the film’s comedic tone, while others criticized the plot for being predictable and formulaic.

However, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $220 million worldwide. Overall, Central Intelligence is a fun and entertaining action comedy that offers plenty of laughs and excitement.

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25. Ghostbusters (2016)

“Ghostbusters” is a science fiction comedy film released in 2016, directed by Paul Feig and starring Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones.

The film is a reboot of the original 1984 “Ghostbusters” film and follows a group of scientists and paranormal enthusiasts who start a ghost-catching business in New York City.

The team, consisting of Abby Yates (played by Melissa McCarthy), Erin Gilbert (played by Kristen Wiig), Jillian Holtzmann (played by Kate McKinnon), and Patty Tolan (played by Leslie Jones), must use their scientific knowledge and equipment to stop a supernatural threat that is terrorizing the city.

As they investigate the source of the ghostly activity, the team encounters a number of supernatural entities, including the vengeful spirit of a 19th-century madman and a powerful demon that threatens to unleash destruction on the city.

Along the way, they must also contend with skepticism and ridicule from those who doubt their abilities and dismiss them as frauds.

“Ghostbusters” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences, with some praising its diverse cast and updated visual effects, while others criticized it for lacking the original’s charm and wit.

The film was a moderate box office success, grossing over $229 million worldwide, but plans for a sequel were ultimately scrapped.

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3 Reasons To Watch Melissa McCarthy Movies

Melissa McCarthy is a talented and versatile actress who can deliver both comedic and dramatic performances with equal skill.

She has been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Bridesmaids”, and has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stars.

McCarthy’s movies are known for their irreverent humor, physical comedy, and heartfelt moments.

Whether she’s playing a clumsy spy in “Spy”, a mischievous baker in “Tammy”, or a struggling writer in “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”, McCarthy brings a unique charm and energy to each role that keeps audiences engaged and entertained.

McCarthy often collaborates with talented directors, writers, and actors who share her passion for creating engaging and meaningful films.

Her partnerships with Paul Feig, Ben Falcone, and Octavia Spencer have yielded some of her most successful and acclaimed performances, and she has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Sandra Bullock, Kristen Wiig, and Richard E. Grant.

Best Melissa McCarthy Movies – Wrap Up

Melissa McCarthy is a talented actress known for her comedic performances in various films. Some of the best Melissa McCarthy movies, based on critical acclaim and audience reception, include:

“Bridesmaids” (2011) – In this comedy film directed by Paul Feig, McCarthy plays the role of Megan, a quirky and confident bridesmaid who steals the show with her outrageous behavior and comedic timing.

Her performance in “Bridesmaids” earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

“Spy” (2015) – Directed by Paul Feig, “Spy” is an action-comedy film where McCarthy portrays Susan Cooper, a CIA analyst who becomes an unlikely spy. McCarthy’s comedic chops shine in this film as she takes on the action genre with hilarious results.

“The Heat” (2013) – In this buddy cop comedy film directed by Paul Feig, McCarthy teams up with Sandra Bullock as mismatched law enforcement officers trying to take down a drug lord.

McCarthy’s performance as Detective Shannon Mullins is both funny and fierce, showcasing her comedic and physical talents.

“Can You Ever Forgive Me?” (2018) – In this biographical comedy-drama film, McCarthy portrays real-life writer Lee Israel, who turns to forgery to make a living.

McCarthy delivers a nuanced and dramatic performance in this film, showcasing her versatility as an actress, and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

“St. Vincent” (2014) – Directed by Theodore Melfi, “St. Vincent” is a dramedy where McCarthy plays a single mother who befriends her curmudgeonly neighbor, portrayed by Bill Murray.

McCarthy’s performance in this film balances humor and heart, showcasing her ability to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Other notable Melissa McCarthy movies include “Identity Thief” (2013), “Ghostbusters” (2016), and “The Boss” (2016), among others.

McCarthy’s comedic talent, versatile performances, and ability to create memorable characters have made her a popular and successful actress in the comedy genre.