Catherine O’Hara commands respect for her comedic prowess, making disliking her a deal-breaker on a first date. With a stellar career spanning from her days on “SCTV” to her recent triumph in “Schitt’s Creek,” O’Hara’s versatility shines in both TV and film. Whether portraying a forgetful mother or a psychic rag doll, O’Hara excels in every role she takes on. For fans of O’Hara (and who isn’t one?), here are the top ten movies featuring the comedic genius.
1) “Best In Show” (2000)
“Best In Show” immerses viewers in the eccentric world of American dog shows. O’Hara delivers a standout performance as Cookie, the terrier owner and companion to Gerry, played by Eugene Levy. Her impeccable timing and physical comedy skills steal the spotlight throughout.
2) “Beetlejuice” (1988)
“Beetlejuice” marks O’Hara’s captivating turn as Delia, an offbeat, self-absorbed stepmother in a haunted house. The dinner party scene showcases O’Hara’s comedic brilliance and solidifies her status as a comedy icon.
3) “A Mighty Wind” (2003)
In the heartfelt mockumentary “A Mighty Wind,” O’Hara and Levy portray Mickey and Mitch, a former folk music duo reuniting for a memorial concert. Their emotional performance transcends the comedy genre, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
4) “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)
A holiday favorite for Halloween enthusiasts, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” features O’Hara as the voice of Sally, a mystical rag doll with a talent for potion-making and psychic visions. O’Hara’s gentle portrayal adds a touch of magic to the film.
5) “Waiting For Guffman” (1996)
O’Hara shines in “Waiting For Guffman” as a real estate agent and amateur theatre performer, sharing the screen with Fred Willard as her husband. Her comedic prowess lights up the screen, providing one hilarious moment after another.
6) “After Hours” (1985)
O’Hara’s portrayal of Gail, an edgy ice cream truck driver, adds chaos to the tumultuous events in “After Hours.” Despite appearing late in the film, O’Hara’s performance is a standout, embodying perfectly executed chaos.
7) “Home Alone” (1990)
A Christmas classic, “Home Alone” features O’Hara as a determined mother striving to reunite with her youngest child left behind during a family vacation. O’Hara’s endearing performance adds to the charm of this timeless film.
8) “For Your Consideration” (2006)
O’Hara delivers a standout performance in “For Your Consideration,” a film exploring the frenzy surrounding a potential Oscar nomination. As an actor on the brink of unraveling, O’Hara’s portrayal captivates audiences with its depth and humor.
9) “The Life Before This” (1999)
In the indie film “The Life Before This,” O’Hara’s award-winning performance showcases her range as an actress. The film delves into the events leading to a tragic incident, offering a poignant and introspective viewing experience.
10) “Home Fries” (1998) – A Guilty Pleasure
While not a conventional top pick, “Home Fries” proves to be an entertaining watch with O’Hara portraying a manipulative mother entangled in dark deeds. O’Hara’s captivating performance elevates the film, making it a guilty pleasure for fans.
For fans of Catherine O’Hara, these movies offer a delightful showcase of her comedic talent and versatility that have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.