Director
Bobby Farrelly
Release Year
1998
Runtime
120 minutes
Main Cast
Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Ben Stiller, Lee Evans, Chris Elliott
About There's Something About Mary
Released in 1998, "There's Something About Mary" quickly became a cultural phenomenon, injecting a much-needed dose of raunchy, no-holds-barred comedy into the romantic comedy genre. Directed by the Farrelly Brothers, the film pushed boundaries with its audacious gags and memorable characters, solidifying its place as a quintessential '90s comedy and influencing countless films that followed.
The plot centers on Ted Stroehmann, a somewhat hapless man who, years after a disastrous prom night incident, decides to track down his high school crush, Mary Jensen. What follows is a convoluted and increasingly absurd journey filled with eccentric characters, misunderstandings, and competing suitors, all vying for Mary's affection. The film masterfully balances its gross-out humor with surprisingly sweet moments, making the audience root for Ted despite the chaos surrounding him.
Critically, "There's Something About Mary" was a massive success, praised for its sharp writing, fearless humor, and the magnetic performances of its cast, particularly Cameron Diaz's charming portrayal of Mary. It was a commercial hit, cementing the Farrelly Brothers' reputation for delivering hilarious and often controversial comedies. The film's unique brand of humor resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to numerous accolades and a lasting impact on popular culture.
The legacy of "There's Something About Mary" lies in its ability to blend gross-out comedy with genuine heart. It proved that romantic comedies could be both lewd and lovely, paving the way for a new wave of comedies that weren't afraid to be a little bit edgy. Its iconic scenes and quotable lines continue to be referenced today, a testament to its enduring popularity and its significant contribution to the comedy genre.
Drafts Featuring There's Something About Mary
Every SnakeDrafts listicle where this movie appears
The Best Cameron Diaz Movies Ranked
Ranked #1
The Best Matt Dillon Movies Ranked
Ranked #1
Ranking the Best Sarah Silverman Movies
Ranked #13
The Definitive Ranking of Comedy Movies
Ranked #5
Best 1998 Movies of All Time
Ranked #3
The Greatest 1990s Comedy Movies Ranked
Ranked #4
The Best Ben Stiller Movies Ranked
Ranked #1
Similar Movies
Movies related to There's Something About Mary
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about There's Something About Mary
- The infamous hair gel scene is a pivotal moment that encapsulates the movie's audacious humor. It's a clever visual gag that plays on a misunderstanding, leading to one of the most talked-about and hilariously cringeworthy moments in modern comedy history.
- Mary's seemingly blissful unawareness of the bizarre events and competing suitors around her is central to the film's comedic premise. Her genuine kindness and unsuspecting nature create a humorous contrast with the increasingly outlandish actions of the men vying for her affection, making her the calm center of a comedic storm.
- Pat Healy, the sleazy private investigator hired by Ted, serves as a catalyst for much of the film's escalating chaos. His deceptive nature and subsequent infatuation with Mary introduce further complications and contribute significantly to the film's intricate web of lies and hilarious misunderstandings.
- Beyond its overt romantic comedy elements, the film subtly explores themes of obsession, deception, and the lengths people will go to for love. It also touches upon the idea of idealizing past relationships and the often-messy realities of pursuing them years later, all wrapped in a comedic package.
- The ending of 'There's Something About Mary' provides a satisfying resolution by finally bringing Ted and Mary together after a series of outrageous obstacles. It delivers on the romantic promise while maintaining the film's comedic tone, leaving audiences with a feeling of warmth and catharsis after the wild ride.
