Rob Reiner is known for one generation for playing Meathead, Michael Stivic on All in the Family in the 1970s. But for so many generations, he is known for directing and producing a wide range of films, from comedies to dramas, and he’s left a significant mark on cinema. Here’s a list of his top 10 movies, highlighting some of his most iconic works:

1. The Princess Bride (1987)

• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
• Why it’s great: This fairy tale adventure is a timeless classic with witty dialogue, memorable characters, and a perfect blend of humor and heart. It has become a beloved cult film over the years.
• Quote: “As you wish.”

2. This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

• Genre: Mockumentary, Comedy
• Why it’s great: A hilarious mockumentary about a fictional British rock band. It’s groundbreaking in its genre and features brilliant performances from the cast. A true pioneer in comedy filmmaking.
• Quote: “It’s not just a name, it’s a lifestyle.”

3. When Harry Met Sally… (1989)

• Genre: Romance, Comedy
• Why it’s great: One of the greatest romantic comedies of all time. With sharp dialogue and great performances from Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, it’s a perfect mix of humor and romance.
• Quote: “I’ll have what she’s having.”

4. Misery (1990)

• Genre: Thriller, Horror, Drama
• Why it’s great: A chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, with Kathy Bates delivering a career-defining performance as the unhinged Annie Wilkes. It’s suspenseful and terrifying in a way that few thrillers achieve.
• Quote: “I’m your number one fan.”
  

5. A Few Good Men (1992)

• Genre: Drama, Legal, Thriller
• Why it’s great: The courtroom drama is iconic, especially with Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore in key roles. The “You can’t handle the truth!” line has become one of the most quoted lines in film history.
• Quote: “You can’t handle the truth!”

6. Stand by Me (1986)

• Genre: Drama, Coming-of-age
• Why it’s great: Based on Stephen King’s novella, this heartfelt coming-of-age story about friendship and growing up is both nostalgic and emotional. It features a young cast, including River Phoenix and Wil Wheaton.
• Quote: “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?”
  
  

7. The American President (1995)

• Genre: Drama, Romance
• Why it’s great: A romantic drama with a political backdrop, featuring Michael Douglas as a widowed president falling for a lobbyist (Annette Bening). It’s clever, heartfelt, and politically astute.
• Quote: “You can’t ask me to be more than I am.”

8. North (1994)

• Genre: Comedy, Family
• Why it’s great: While not as beloved as some of his other films, North is a quirky family comedy that features Elijah Wood as a boy who goes on a journey to find new parents. It’s a whimsical, if flawed, film.
• Quote: “I want to be North.”

9. The Bucket List (2007)

• Genre: Drama, Comedy
• Why it’s great: Starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, this heartwarming film about two terminally ill men who set out to complete their bucket list is a feel-good journey about life, friendship, and death.
• Quote: “I’m not afraid of dying, I’m afraid I haven’t been living.”

10. The Story of Us (1999)

• Genre: Drama, Romance
• Why it’s great: This film explores the complexity of marriage and relationships as it follows a couple (played by Bruce Willis and Michelle Pfeiffer) dealing with the challenges of their marriage as they near divorce. It’s a more mature, introspective look at love and the evolution of relationships.
• Quote: “We both want this to work, but sometimes wanting isn’t enough.”

It’s not as iconic as some of his other films, but it’s a thoughtful exploration of love and commitment.

You can purchase some of Rob Reiner’s work here.

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