Adam Sandler has a distinct style that is not for everyone. The actor has appeared in more than 50 comedy movies, over half of which are romantic comedies, and has managed to play the same character in each of them. His characters almost always start out as obnoxious, inappropriate, and clumsy, irrespective of the film's premise or setting.

Then they before a heartwarming conclusion where they end up with their romantic interests. One of his frequent co-stars, Rob Schneider, who has done 20 movies with Adam Sandler, has a similar filmography and reputation. However, both of them have more range as actors.

While there are very few such movies in his filmography, some of Sandler's films have proven he has more roles in his repertoire than the typical Adam Sandler movie might suggest. The New York Times' list of 100 best movies of the 21st Century even includes two of his movies, both of which are off the beaten path for Sandler.

Paul Thomas Anderson is one of the most celebrated directors in the industry today, and one of his four films on the list, at number 56, is . It stars Adam Sandler as a socially anxious man who finds the strength to.

On paper, Punch-Drunk Love sounds exactly like every other Adam Sandler movie, but his character isn't obnoxious to start with, and the film isn't self-aware like his usual comedy movies attempt to be. It is committed to creating a mood and celebrating the power of love without a hint of irony, unlike the typical Adam Sandler comedy film:

"This Paul Thomas Anderson film incorporates the zaniness of a screwballcomedy and the earnestness of a romantic drama, anchored by a career-best performance from Adam Sandler." (via the New York Times)

The other one of Sandler's movies on the list, directed by the critically acclaimed Safdie brothers, is , where Adam Sandler delivers one of the best A24 movie performances ever. It follows Sandler's character, who is a jeweler trying to grapple with the consequences of his many shady dealings. It's a nerve-wracking film that showcases Sandler's dramatic acting talent.

In 2019, Adam Sandler gave one of the greatest performances of his lifetime, which is as anxiety-inducing as it is heartwrenching, demonstrating just how much range he has. An actor largely associated with unserious commercial comedies lacking in substance is considered deserving of an Oscar nomination, because that's how good his acting in Uncut Gems is.

However, much like some of the other best comedy actors with remarkable serious performances in their filmography, this isn't a one-time phenomenon for Adam Sandler. 2007's Reign Over Me, where Sandler plays a man bereaved by the September 11 attacks who reconnects with a long-lost friend, features one of his greatest serious roles ever.

Similarly, Punch-Drunk Love and Funny People, which came out in 2002 and 2009, respectively, prove that Sandler can be endearing in less obnoxious roles. He has the tactics to deliver a good performance. Punch-Drunk Love shows how sincere his performance of romance can be, while balancing anxiety.

While 2024's Spaceman proves he isn't always the best in serious roles, the New York Times' poll further proves how beloved his acting in Punch-Drunk Love and Uncut Gems is. While Happy Gilmore 2 is set to release in 2025, so is Noah Baumbach's Jay Kelly, and the latter will allow Sandler to showcase his dramatic acting again.