Benny Safdie's Favorite Movie? It's Not Some Deep Drama, but a Cheesy Comedy: "It Just Was on Repeat"

Benny Safdie is a director whose work is firmly associated with intelligent, intense, and psychologically complex cinema. He and his brother, Josh, created Good Time and Uncut Gems, which are renowned for their raw, almost documentary-like aesthetic.

However, Safdie's favorite movie in his free time isn't an arthouse drama or a sophisticated European film.

Benny Safdie Revealed 'Happy Gilmore' Is One of His Favourite Movies of All Time

In a recent interview with Time, the director revealed that one of his greatest cinematic loves is the unpretentious sports comedy – Happy Gilmore. Safdie said:

“I can close my eyes and see it from beginning to end. [...] It just was on repeat for me. With Shooter, there's such a level of like, ‘Wow, this guy is truly evil, but he's so fully realised.’

And then Happy is almost like a parable of a guy. He's definitely got his issues, but at the same time, he's really nice and loves his grandmother. Sandler is just special. It's almost crazy to me that I'm even in this thing because that movie was such a big part of my childhood.”

With his genius, impeccable humor, and honest portrayal of a man who doesn't fit into the system but continues to fight, Sandler can win anyone over.

What Is 'Happy Gilmore' About?

Happy Gilmore is an awkward yet charming guy who has dreamed of becoming a hockey player since childhood. His main weapon is an incredibly powerful shot that can send the puck flying so fast that goalies can't react in time.

There's just one problem: he skates worse than any rookie. Because of this, his professional career never takes off. Happy's life goes downhill when his grandmother is evicted from their home for tax evasion, leaving him on the brink of despair.

However, fate leads him to a golf course, where his wild swing catches the attention of former champion Chubbs – the eccentric old man sees Happy as a natural golfer.

Even 30 Years Later, 'Happy Gilmore' Remains a Cult Comedy Classic For a Reason

Happy Gilmore, released in 1996, remains one of the most quotable and beloved sports comedies. It's not just because Adam Sandler is in his element, delivering one unforgettable scene after another.

The film's success stems from a combination of factors. First, screenwriters Tim Herlihy and Sandler, who have known each other since college, crafted a story balancing absurdist grotesqueness and heartfelt drama – beneath the silliness lies a classic coming-of-age and self-discovery story.

Second, the brilliant ensemble cast deserves recognition: the charismatic Carl Weathers as the mentor, the charming Julie Bowen as the love interest, and the inimitable Christopher McDonald as a villain you both want to hate and admire.

At the same time, the filmmakers approached the creation of the movie with the utmost seriousness: they invited professional golfer Mark Lye to serve as a consultant and ensure the jokes were in line with reality.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Happy Gilmore'?

• Happy Gilmore has 66% from critics and 85% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.0/10.

• On Letterboxd, Happy Gilmore scored 3.4/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Happy Gilmore'?

Happy Gilmore is available to stream on Starz.