The Top Ten Judd Apatow Films

From Superbad to Knocked Up, Judd Apatow was at the helm of some of the biggest comedies the 2000’s bore witness to, either as a producer or director. Founder of Apatow Productions, the Flushing, Queens-born director, actor, producer and comedian gained a cult following with 1999’s short-lived Freaks and Geeks and started to seriously get noticed when he directed the essential hit comedy of 2005, The 40 Year Old Virgin. Read below for our favorite Apatow films of the last decade where he acts either as producer or director.

10.

This Is 40

Starring: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Megan Fox

Released: 2012

Ever wonder what life is really like once you’re married with kids? Well This Is 40 looks to set the rumors straight… sort of. The film focuses on a soon-to-be 40 couple, played by Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd, whose lives feel like they’re falling apart. The movie, which promises audience a lot of laughs, is kind of an ultra delayed sequel to Knocked Up, another Apatow classic. It’s perfect for anyone approaching the birthday milestone, has just passed it, or wants a good laugh.

9.

Wanderlust

Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Paul Rudd

Released: 2012

One of his more recent films, Wanderlust takes a hilarious look at a relationship on the brink of falling apart. After George, played by Paul Rudd, loses his job and Linda, played by Jennifer Aniston, can’t seem to find one, they lose their apartment, find themselves neck deep in debt, and would do anything to escape having to live with George’s brother… including join a free spirited (and free loving commune). Wanderlust examines what it really means to be in love, and then turns it on its head. A hilarious yet touching tale, and not one to be overlooked.

8.

Pineapple Express

Starring: Seth Rogen, James Franco

Released: 2008

Sex, drugs and… best friends? This is the premise for 2008’s Pineapple Express, starring Seth Rogen and James Franco. When a process server sees a drug deal goes bad he turns to the only man he can trust: his strung out but friendly neighborhood pot dealer. The two men go into hiding, fight for their lives, and find themselves in the middle of what could possibly be the biggest drug ring of all time. Like most Apatow films, the movie explores what it really means to become friends and the lengths you would go to help them out. So grab a drink, maybe a few snacks, and hop aboard the Pineapple Express. It’s the first time anyone’s ever seen something like this:

7.

The Cable Guy

Starring: Jim Carrey, Ben Stiller

Released: 1996

That’s right. Many are unaware of the fact that this iconic 90’s film was actually Judd Apatow’s first work as a feature film producer. The tell-tale signs were right there; after all, Leslie Mann plays the love interest. The Cable Guy shows off Jim Carrey as Chip, an eccentric persona and deranged cable guy looking for a friend, who finds it in Matthew Broderick’s character. If you haven’t watched this, one of the classic, zanier Jim Carrey films, it’s time you do so. It features one of the best shout-outs to the Medieval Times, EVER:

6.

Knocked Up

Starring: Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Jonah Hill, Jay Baruchel

Released: 2007

One night stands are supposed to last exactly that long; one night. But what happens when a fling goes wrong? Welcome to the world of Knocked Up, the story about two unlikely people that spend the night with each other and, not long down the road, discover they’re going to be having a baby. With a comedic powerhouse for it cast, including Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jason Segel, Jonah Hill and Jay Baruchel, Knocked Up will put a smile on your face (while inadvertently making you think twice about ever having a one nighter again).

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