Steve Martin, born on August 14, 1945, is an icon in Hollywood thanks to his multi-talents that range from acting to comedy to music and writing. He might be popular today for his starring role in Slenea Gomez-produced Only Murders in the Building, but his versatility has been on display for five decades. Starting in the late 1960s, Martin gained popularity as a stand-up comedian with his unique blend of absurdist humour and clever wordplay. His performances on The Tonight Show and Saturday Night Live cemented his reputation as a comedic genius. Only Murders in the Building Season 4 Teaser: Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and Martin Short All Set to Head to a Hollywood Studio; Hulu Series to Premiere on August 27.

His transition to film was seamless, with standout roles in comedies like The Jerk (1979), Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987), and Father of the Bride (1991), where he showcased his versatility as a comedic actor and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Beyond his work in comedy and film, Martin is also an accomplished author, having penned several plays, novels, and memoirs. Not to mention, Martin is an accomplished musician and has earned acclaim for his bluegrass music, winning five Grammy Awards for his work with the banjo.

On the occasion of his 79th birthday, here are five of Steve Martin's best live-action movies, ranked by IMDb user rating, and where to watch them online.

5. Parenthood (1989)

Steve Martin in Parenthood

IMDb Rating: 7.1

This lovable dramedy stars Steve Martin as Gil Buckman, a father struggling with the challenges of raising a family. The movie also stars Tom Hulce, Rick Moranis, Martha Plimpton, Keanu Reeves, Jason Robards, Mary Steenburgen, and Dianne Wiest. You can pay to watch Parenthood on Prime Video.

4. The Spanish Prisoner (1997)

Steve Martin in The Spanish Prisoner

IMDb Rating: 7.2

While Martin is known for his comic persona, he has also done his fair share of serious roles. Like in this thriller about corporate espionage, where he plays a mysterious businessman involved in a complex plot. The movie also stars Campbell Scott, Rebecca Pidgeon, Ben Gazzara, Felicity Huffman and Ricky Jay. The Spanish Prisoner can be watched in full on YouTube.

3. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988)

Steve Martin in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

IMDb Rating: 7.4

This buddy con-comedy sees Steve Martin paired up with Michael Caine, where they play a couple of con-artistes trying to one-up each other while trying to woo a rich heiress. The movie was remade in Hindi as Rascals, starring Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn and Kangana Ranaut. You can pay to watch Dirty Rotten Scoundrels on Prime Video. Steve Martin Reveals He Used To Feel ‘Embarrassed’ by His Father but Now Sympathises With Him; Here’s Why!

2. The Muppet Movie (1979)

Steve Martin in The Muppet Movie

IMDb Rating: 7.6

The first Muppet movie featured a slew of cameos from Elliott Gould to Orson Welles. In one of his early onscreen roles, Steve Martin still manages to stand out as a sarcastic waiter. You can pay to watch The Muppet Movie on Prime Video.

1. Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Steve Martin in Planes, Trains & Automobiles

IMDb Rating: 7.6

According to IMDb, Steve Martin's best live-action film is this buddy road-trip comedy, which pairs him with the late John Candy. Martin plays a stressed-out businessman trying to get home for Thanksgiving. You can pay to watch Planes, Trains & Automobiles on Prime Video.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2024 09:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).