Every The Lonely Island Movie, Ranked

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The trio consisting of Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone, and Akiva Schaffer, collectively known as The Lonely Island, revitalized Saturday Night Live during their tenure in the 2005 season. Their second Digital Short, titled “Lazy Sunday,” sparked a wildfire on the internet and is frequently credited as a major factor in YouTube’s success. Many of their other Digital Shorts, such as “Threw It on the Ground,” “I Just Had Sex,” “I’m on a Boat,” “Jz in My Pants,” “Like a Boss,” and “Great Day” were either uproariously funny or musically catchy, or both. Although they haven’t directed many films, their few directorial ventures are generally as entertaining as their best shorts.

In order for a movie to make this list, it had to be directed by either Taccone or Schaffer. While Samberg has directed some shorts and an episode of Between Two Ferns, he typically co-directed these with the other two. Moreover, Extreme Movie was omitted because, although a vignette in the film was written by Taccone, Samberg, and Schaffer, they did not direct the entire movie; only one vignette is attributed to them.

7) The Watch

In simpler terms, this entry on the list seems more like a film directed for quick hire, lacking the distinctive charm of The Lonely Island. Unfortunately, the final product, titled “The Watch,” was not worth the effort put into its release. Originally named “Neighborhood Watch,” this movie by Schaffer underwent changes after the shooting incident of Trayvon Martin in February 2012. The marketing team had to rebrand it and reveal that it’s actually an alien invasion film.

One major issue with the film is its inconsistent tone. On one side, it aims to be a hilarious comedy featuring Ben Stiller from Zoolander, Jonah Hill from Superbad, Vince Vaughn from The Wedding Crasher, and Ricky Gervais from The IT Crowd. As such, there are some explicit dialogue moments. However, the story then veers into an absurd alien movie, attempting to maintain its R-rated humor consistently. Unfortunately, these two elements don’t seem to fit well together.

Stream The Watch with a Starz Apple TV Channel subscription.

6) The Naked Gun

It’s surprising that ‘The Naked Gun’ from 2025 ranks so low considering The Lonely Island’s other movies are exceptionally good. This doesn’t mean ‘The Naked Gun’ is of poor quality, but rather it shows how exceptional the rest of their work is. While ‘The Naked Gun’ is entertaining and amusing at times, it lacks the depth that most contemporary theatrical releases seem to have.

In an unexpected turn, Liam Neeson skillfully takes on Leslie Nielsen’s dry humor role, but it’s Pamela Anderson who captivates the most in this production. Schaffer’s meticulous direction is noteworthy too. He effectively recreates the lighthearted charm of the original while introducing various types of comedy, ensuring the humor remains fresh and varied instead of monotonous.

5) Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers

As a die-hard movie fan, I must say that “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” stands out as the only children’s film to boast the collective talent of the Lonely Island trio. Akiva Schaffer lends his voice to the DCEU’s Batman (and other characters), directs and voices E.T. (and more roles), while Jorma Taccone takes on various voices including Dale, all under the masterful performance by Andy Samberg as Dale himself.

This film offers a delightful trip down memory lane, blending live-action and animation reminiscent of “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.” In fact, Roger Rabbit makes an appearance. Critics noted that it’s quite unlike “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” and I’d agree. It creatively revives an old property without feeling like a mere cash grab, instead referencing many iconic cultural moments organically.

Stream Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers on Disney+.

4) Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping

Despite experiencing a significant financial setback, similar to another entry on the list, “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping” stands out as the most significant film in The Lonely Island’s portfolio. Its soundtrack is equally hilarious and memorable, rivaling their work on Saturday Night Live. Tracks like “I’m So Humble,” “Finest Girl (Bin Laden Song),” “Mona Lisa,” “Hunter the Hungry Is Gon’ Eat,” “Things in My Jeep,” and “Incredible Thoughts” are truly noteworthy, to say the least.

This comedy film ranks slightly lower compared to a few others due to its inconsistent delivery of outright hilarity when compared to two other entries, and it doesn’t evoke the emotional depth shown in the third. However, if someone were to comment that it is The Lonely Island’s best movie, they wouldn’t be entirely incorrect, not in a subjective “Everyone has their opinion and all opinions are valid for the one expressing them” sense, but rather because of its unique qualities that may resonate strongly with some viewers.

Rent Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping on Amazon Video.

3) Hot Rod

Never Stop Never Stopping” might be seen as the film that best encapsulates The Lonely Island’s identity, but their most significant movie remains “Hot Rod.” This suggests that despite their swift rise to popularity, their early Hollywood ventures didn’t quite match the level of talent, potential, and faith that Lorne Michaels, among others, had in them.

Over time, “Hot Rod” has evolved into the much-quoted cult classic that it was destined to be. The protagonist Rod Kimble, although an idiot with a goal to save and then fight his stepfather, is endearing due to Samberg’s charming portrayal. Furthermore, this film thrives on impeccable supporting performances, including Taccone, Isla Fisher, Danny McBride (who was just starting out), Bill Hader (known for his memorable LSD and metal scene), Will Arnett, Ian McShane, Sissy Spacek, and a “Footloose” reference. The film also popularized the phrase “Cool beans,” making it an enjoyable treat overall.

Stream Hot Rod on Kanopy.

2) MacGruber

Movie versions of Saturday Night Live skits generally don’t succeed as often as we’d hope. For every The Blues Brothers, there are many more Coneheads. Taccone’s MacGruber is definitely among the best of these adaptations. If not for Wayne’s World, it would be number one. For those who appreciate Will Forte’s humor, it often surpasses even that ’90s classic featuring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey. It’s filled with memorable quotes, but let’s be honest, it’s a comedy that you either love or despise. You’re either in tune with its silly, celery-obsessed humor or you’re not, period.

The movie features the late Val Kilmer portraying a character named Dieter von Cunth, which is already quite amusing. However, what truly stands out is the manner in which his character meets his end – an extravagant farewell that couldn’t be more fitting. Moving on to another humorous aspect, the film boasts two unforgettable sex scenes, surpassing even the famous scene from Top Gun with “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin playing in the background.

J.K. Simmons deserves recognition for taking the original MacGruber sketches, usually lasting around three minutes and divided into three parts, and transforming them into a full-length feature film. Adapting Wayne’s World sketches was no small feat, but MacGruber must have been even more challenging due to the lack of a coherent narrative apart from MacGruber being an incredibly flawed individual.

Lastly, I’d recommend checking out the Peacock series, which unfortunately didn’t receive enough attention and is a delight for fans.

Rent MacGruber on Amazon Video.

1) Honorable Mention: Palm Springs

In contrast to movies like “Extreme Movie”, “Brigsby Bear”, and “I Used to Go Here”, “Palm Springs” seems as if it could have been created by The Lonely Island, though they didn’t direct it. Therefore, it earns an honorable mention, but this position is quite fortunate because it certainly deserves the number one spot.

In the role of Nyles, a character stuck in a time-loop reminiscent of “Groundhog Day”, Andy Samberg delivers a remarkable and humorous performance that deviates from his usual style. He portrays Nyles’ growing frustration and eventual defeatist attitude towards his situation with great clarity. The film is enhanced by a compelling narrative, allowing the characters to engage in deep and often poignant interactions, giving them depth beyond stereotypes. Although the script and Samberg’s performance are commendable, it’s Cristin Milioti’s portrayal of Sarah Wilder that truly shines. As a character caught in the time loop, she convincingly showcases a wide range of human emotions, leaving viewers in awe. While “Groundhog Day” is often considered the benchmark for time-loop movies, “Palm Springs” offers a formidable challenge in terms of quality.

Stream Palm Springs on Hulu.

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2025-09-07 03:43