Stephen Merchant, renowned for his sharp wit and towering presence, is a well respected British actor, director, and comedian. With an impressive array of roles that span across various genres, Merchant’s versatility as an actor and filmmaker is undeniable. Each film on this list not only highlights Merchant’s talent but also demonstrates his ability to leave a lasting impression, regardless of the size or scope of his role. Whether lending his voice to animated characters, directing heartfelt narratives, or bringing humor to the screen with his impeccable comedic timing, his contributions to cinema are both significant and memorable. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Stephen Merchant films of all time.
10. Tooth Fairy – Michael Lembeck (2010)
“Tooth Fairy” presents a unique and humorous twist on a classic fantasy theme. The story revolves around Derek Thompson, played by Dwayne Johnson, a tough minor league hockey player who’s nicknamed “The Tooth Fairy” for his habit of knocking out opposing players’ teeth. His life takes an unexpected turn when he discourages a young fan’s dreams, resulting in a magical twist of fate. This leads to him being magically transformed into a real-life tooth fairy as a peculiar form of punishment. This transformation thrusts Derek into a world far removed from the ice rink, filled with fantastical elements and challenges that put his tough-guy persona to the test.
The film creatively blends comedy and fantasy, offering a fresh perspective on the importance of keeping one’s dreams alive. It humorously addresses the consequences of cynicism and the rediscovery of one’s sense of wonder. Stephen Merchant plays Tracy, a clumsy yet well-meaning fellow tooth fairy who becomes Derek’s guide. Merchant’s portrayal of Tracy is both endearing and amusing, providing a notable contrast to Derek’s initially skeptical attitude. His timing and delivery of lines enhances the film’s comedic aspects while also contributing to its heartwarming message. “Tooth Fairy” excels in delivering laughs and heartwarming moments, making it an enjoyable film for both children and adults.
9. I Give It a Year – Dan Mazer (2013)
“I Give It a Year” is a romantic comedy that explores the ups and downs of a newlywed couple during their first year of marriage, offering a witty and sometimes sarcastic take on post-wedding life. The film focuses on Nat and Josh and their journey from a carefree, passionate beginning to the realities of daily cohabitation forms the crux of the story. However, as they start to settle into married life, they begin to encounter various challenges and comedic mishaps ranging from trivial misunderstandings to more significant disagreements, all of which test their relationship. Stephen Merchant appears as Danny, Josh’s best friend, whose eccentric personality and often ill-timed comments add an additional layer of humor to the film.
Merchant’s performance as Danny stands out, providing a sharp contrast to the more conventional characters, and his role serves as a comedic mirror to the main couple’s struggles. His comedic timing and delivery of witty one-liners and awkward dialogues bring an element of unpredictability to every scene he’s in, often stealing the spotlight with his unique brand of humor. “I Give It a Year” navigates the fine line between comedy and the serious aspects of marriage. The film’s blend of humor and romance, along with its ability to resonate with those who have experienced the rollercoaster of early marriage, make it one of the best Stephen Merchant films of all time.
8. A Boy Called Christmas – Gil Kenan (2021)
“A Boy Called Christmas” is a delightful holiday adventure that reimagines the origins of Santa Claus, giving a timeless legend new life and enchantment. The film portrays the story of a young boy named Nikolas, a brave and kind-hearted child, who embarks on a magical quest into the snowy north in search of his father. This journey is filled with challenges, wonders, and unexpected allies. Along his journey, Nikolas encounters a reindeer named Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, leading to a series of fantastical events. Stephen Merchant voices Miika, the pet mouse, with a delightful blend of wit and wisdom, adding a humorous and heartwarming dimension to the tale.
Merchant’s vocal performance as Miika is both engaging and endearing, infusing the character with a sense of humor and warmth that appeals to audiences of all ages. His voice brings Miika to life, creating a character that is both a source of comic relief and emotional support to Nikolas. The film combines stunning visuals with a captivating narrative, creating a magical experience that captures the essence of Christmas spirit. “A Boy Called Christmas” is a story that celebrates hope, belief, and the joy of giving, offering a heartwarming message that resonates deeply during the holiday season.
7. The Invention of Lying – Ricky Gervais, Matthew Robinson (2009)
“The Invention of Lying” is set in an alternate reality where everyone speaks the absolute truth due to the concept of lying not existing. The story focuses on Mark Bellison, portrayed by Ricky Gervais, a man who struggles to fit into this overly honest world, a down-on-his-luck writer who discovers the ability to lie during a moment of desperation and realizes he can manipulate this newfound power for personal gain. His journey from obscurity to notoriety, using his unique ability, forms the core of the narrative. The film cleverly explores the consequences of his actions in a world where lies are a novel concept. Stephen Merchant plays Greg, Mark’s friend and colleague, bringing a sense of normalcy and grounding to the story.
In this thought-provoking comedy, Merchant’s role as Greg showcases his ability to deliver straightforward, yet humorous lines, making his character both likable and a foil to Mark’s increasingly complex life. The film cleverly questions the nature of truth and deception, making viewers ponder the value and impact of honesty in society. It challenges the audience to consider the moral implications of lying in a world unaccustomed to falsehood. His performance, coupled with the film’s unique premise, makes “The Invention of Lying” one of the best Stephen Merchant films of all time, presenting a clever satire on the human tendency to manipulate truth.
6. Gnomeo & Juliet – Kelly Asbury (2011)
In “Gnomeo & Juliet,” a charming and imaginative twist on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, the story is reimagined in a suburban garden setting, featuring a lively community of garden gnomes. The narrative centers around two young gnomes, Gnomeo and Juliet, who come from rival families but fall in love, defying the longstanding feud between the Blue and Red gnomes. Their secret romance leads to humorous and unexpected situations, filled with garden escapades and playful antics, as they navigate their way through the challenges posed by their feuding families. Stephen Merchant voices Paris, a gnome with an air of sophistication and awkwardness.
Merchant’s portrayal of Paris is both comical and memorable, filling the character with a unique blend of charm and awkwardness that perfectly suits the whimsical nature of the film. His character, although not central to the main storyline, brings a distinct charm and humor to the narrative, enriching the dynamic garden world with his presence. “Gnomeo & Juliet” stands out for its creative storytelling, vibrant animation, and the clever use of garden-centric themes and settings. The film’s ability to blend a classic story with modern humor and animation showcases Merchant’s versatility as a voice actor and highlights the film’s charm as a family-friendly comedy that cleverly adapts a timeless tale into a fun, garden-themed adventure.
5. Cemetery Junction – Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant (2010)
“Cemetery Junction” is a coming-of-age drama that captures the essence of life in a small English town in the 1970s, depicting the era’s distinctive culture. The film focuses on three young men, Freddie, Bruce, and Snork, as they grapple with their aspirations and dreams in a town steeped in traditional values and expectations. Freddie, who yearns for a life beyond the town’s confines, finds himself at a crossroads, confronted with the dilemma of either adhering to the expected life path or breaking free to follow his own desires. Stephen Merchant appears as Douglas, Freddie’s boss, an embodiment of the town’s conservative mindset, whose awkward and bureaucratic demeanor provides a stark contrast to the youthful energy of the main characters.
Merchant’s performance as Douglas is subtly humorous, bringing to life a character who is comically out of touch with the younger generation’s aspirations and struggles. The film is notable for its authentic portrayal of the era, capturing the mood and social dynamics of the time with a keen eye for detail. “Cemetery Junction” combines humor, drama, and a sense of nostalgia, offering a reflective look at the challenges of growing up, solidifying its place as one of the best Stephen Merchant films of all time. It examines the journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of dreams in a world resistant to change. Merchant’s role, though not central to the plot, adds further depth to the film, contributing to its authentic depiction of 1970s England.
4. Fighting with My Family – Stephen Merchant (2019)
“Fighting with My Family” is a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of a family involved in the world of wrestling. The story follows Saraya Knight, who later becomes known as Paige in the wrestling world, and her journey from a small town in England to becoming a WWE superstar. This journey contains a mix of determination, challenges, and family support. Alongside her brother Zak, she dreams of making it big in professional wrestling, a dream that tests their bond, ambition, and family dynamics, revealing the complexities of balancing personal aspirations with familial responsibilities. Stephen Merchant not only directs but also appears in a small role, bringing his distinctive comedic sensibility and adding his unique touch of humor to the narrative.
Merchant’s direction brings a blend of humor and emotional depth to the film, skillfully depicting the highs and lows of a family united by their shared love for wrestling. His cameo in the film, though brief, is memorable and adds a layer of comedy, showcasing his ability to infuse even small moments with significant impact. “Fighting with My Family” is notable for its engaging storytelling, strong performances, and its effective portrayal of the inner workings of the wrestling world. The film balances the grit of wrestling with the warmth of family relationships, creating a compelling narrative that is both inspiring and relatable.
3. Jojo Rabbit – Taika Waititi (2019)
“Jojo Rabbit” presents a satirical take on World War II through the eyes of a young German boy named Jojo, whose naive understanding of the war is shaped by the propaganda of the time. His imaginary friend is an absurd version of Adolf Hitler, reflecting the distorted world view indoctrinated in children of that era. Jojo’s blind nationalism is put to the test when he discovers that his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their attic, forcing him to confront his beliefs and prejudices. Stephen Merchant plays Deertz, a Gestapo agent, whose lanky frame and sharp features add to his presence and comedic timing.
In his role as Deertz, Merchant masterfully balances the comedic and intimidating aspects of his character, using his physicality and expressive timing to enhance the absurdity of his role. His performance adds a layer of satire to the film’s critique of blind ideology and hatred, underscoring the ridiculousness of extremist beliefs through his exaggerated portrayal. “Jojo Rabbit” is acclaimed for its daring approach to a sensitive subject, blending dark comedy with moments of emotional depth, all while maintaining a respectful and insightful perspective on the impact of war. His exceptional skill in handling a role that requires a delicate balance between humor and gravity ensures that this is one of the best Stephen Merchant films of all time.
2. Logan – James Mangold (2017)
“Logan,” a darker, more introspective chapter in the X-Men saga, a film that explores themes of aging, loss, and legacy, we meet an aging Wolverine whose healing powers are waning. Set in a near future where mutants are nearly extinct, Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hidden Mexican border outpost, a stark contrast to their former lives as celebrated heroes. Their attempt at a quiet life is disrupted when they encounter a young mutant, Laura, who possesses powers remarkably similar to Logan’s. Stephen Merchant portrays Caliban, a mutant with the ability to track other mutants. He brings a sense of melancholy and resilience to his character, offering an emotionally deep performance.
Merchant’s portrayal of Caliban emphasizes the isolation and fear experienced by mutants in this dystopian future. His character, though not a typical action figure, contributes significantly to the film’s emotional resonance and narrative, offering a reflection on the price of survival in a world that has grown hostile to their kind. “Logan” stands out for its raw storytelling, exceptional character development, and its departure from traditional superhero tropes. Merchant’s role in this critically acclaimed film demonstrates his range as an actor, showcasing his ability to infuse depth and humanity into a complex character.
1. Hot Fuzz – Edgar Wright (2007)
“Hot Fuzz,” a fast-paced action-comedy, directed by Edgar Wright, showcases the story of Nicholas Angel, a top London cop with a no-nonsense attitude who is transferred to the seemingly quiet village of Sandford. This move comes as a jarring change for Angel, accustomed to the high-stakes environment of London. Partnered with the bumbling but well-meaning PC Danny Butterman, Angel discovers that the village is not as idyllic as it seems, uncovering layers of mystery beneath its surface. Stephen Merchant makes a brief but memorable appearance as a villager, filling the role with his distinctively dry humor and excellent comedic timing.
In this cameo role, Merchant’s natural comedic flair shines through, enhancing the film’s overall humor and charm. “Hot Fuzz” is celebrated for its clever writing, visual gags and rapid-fire dialogue, ensuring its place as one of the best Stephen Merchant films of all time. Its unique style parodies and pays homage to classic action movies, making it a standout in the genre. The film’s success lies in its ability to keep audiences engaged and laughing throughout, with a perfect balance of suspense and absurdity. Merchant’s participation, although limited in screen time, adds a special touch to its eclectic and memorable ensemble cast.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Stephen Merchant films of all time:
- Tooth Fairy – Michael Lembeck (2010)
- I Give It a Year – Dan Mazer (2013)
- A Boy Called Christmas – Gil Kenan (2021)
- The Invention of Lying – Ricky Gervais, Matthew Robinson (2009)
- Gnomeo & Juliet – Kelly Asbury (2011)
- Cemetery Junction – Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant (2010)
- Fighting with My Family – Stephen Merchant (2019)
- Jojo Rabbit – Taika Waititi (2019)
- Logan – James Mangold (2017)
- Hot Fuzz – Edgar Wright (2007)
