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Best Penny Marshall Movies
11th Nov 2025
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Penny Marshall, a director and actress known for her heartwarming comedies and poignant portrayals of human connection, left an indelible mark on cinema. From the witty banter of *Laverne & Shirley* to the emotional resonance of *A League of Their Own*, Marshall's films often centered on strong female characters navigating life's joys and struggles with humor and heart. Her ability to capture relatable moments and portray relatable individuals made her films truly special. This list compiles some of her most beloved and critically acclaimed works. We've curated a selection of Penny Marshall's finest films, allowing you to experience the range of her talents. Use the drag-and-drop feature below to reorder the list, creating your own personalized ranking of the best Penny Marshall movies. We invite you to share your thoughts and compare your choices with others!
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#1.
Awakenings (1990)
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**Awakenings (1990)** Awakenings (1990) tells the poignant true story of Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician who uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive this controversial treatment, and his subsequent awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a profound rebirth for Sayer too. As the exuberant patient rediscovers life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures, he profoundly impacts the introverted doctor, illuminating the preciousness of human connection and experience. Awakenings undoubtedly earns its place among the "Best Penny Marshall Movies" due to her masterful and sensitive direction. Marshall deftly navigates the film's complex emotional landscape, drawing out extraordinary, Oscar-nominated performances from both Robert De Niro as Leonard and Robin Williams as Dr. Sayer. Her signature humanist touch is evident throughout, as she grounds the incredible true story in profound empathy, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the bittersweet nature of rediscovery. This powerful drama showcases Marshall's ability to craft narratives that are not only deeply moving but also universally resonant, cementing its legacy as a pivotal and acclaimed work in her directorial canon.
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#1.
Awakenings (1990)
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**Awakenings (1990)** Awakenings (1990) tells the poignant true story of Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician who uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive this controversial treatment, and his subsequent awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a profound rebirth for Sayer too. As the exuberant patient rediscovers life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures, he profoundly impacts the introverted doctor, illuminating the preciousness of human connection and experience. Awakenings undoubtedly earns its place among the "Best Penny Marshall Movies" due to her masterful and sensitive direction. Marshall deftly navigates the film's complex emotional landscape, drawing out extraordinary, Oscar-nominated performances from both Robert De Niro as Leonard and Robin Williams as Dr. Sayer. Her signature humanist touch is evident throughout, as she grounds the incredible true story in profound empathy, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the bittersweet nature of rediscovery. This powerful drama showcases Marshall's ability to craft narratives that are not only deeply moving but also universally resonant, cementing its legacy as a pivotal and acclaimed work in her directorial canon.
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Awakenings (1990)
#11.0**Awakenings (1990)** Awakenings (1990) tells the poignant true story of Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician who uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive this controversial treatment, and his subsequent awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a profound rebirth for Sayer too. As the exuberant patient rediscovers life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures, he profoundly impacts the introverted doctor, illuminating the preciousness of human connection and experience. Awakenings undoubtedly earns its place among the "Best Penny Marshall Movies" due to her masterful and sensitive direction. Marshall deftly navigates the film's complex emotional landscape, drawing out extraordinary, Oscar-nominated performances from both Robert De Niro as Leonard and Robin Williams as Dr. Sayer. Her signature humanist touch is evident throughout, as she grounds the incredible true story in profound empathy, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the bittersweet nature of rediscovery. This powerful drama showcases Marshall's ability to craft narratives that are not only deeply moving but also universally resonant, cementing its legacy as a pivotal and acclaimed work in her directorial canon.
A League of Their Own (1992)
#22.0Directed by Penny Marshall, *A League of Their Own* (1992) vividly brings to life the untold story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Following small-town sisters Dottie and Kit as they join this pioneering league formed after World War II brought professional men's baseball to a standstill, the film captures the unique challenges and camaraderie of these groundbreaking athletes. As their team hits the road with its often-drunken coach, the siblings—and their diverse teammates—find both troubles and triumphs, not just on the baseball diamond but also in their personal lives, charting a course for female empowerment and resilience. This beloved sports dramedy stands as one of Penny Marshall's quintessential achievements and undoubtedly belongs on any "Best Penny Marshall Movies" list. Marshall masterfully wove together a compelling historical narrative with her signature blend of humor and heart, creating an enduring story of sisterhood, ambition, and breaking barriers. Her keen eye for character development is evident in the film's memorable ensemble cast, from Tom Hanks' iconic "there's no crying in baseball!" performance to the nuanced portrayals by Geena Davis, Lori Petty, and Madonna. Marshall consistently championed stories of everyday people achieving extraordinary things, often with a focus on strong, resilient women, and *A League of Their Own* perfectly embodies this ethos, delivering both laugh-out-loud moments and genuinely touching drama that continues to resonate decades later.
Big (1988)
#33.0In the beloved 1988 film *Big*, a young boy named Josh Baskin makes a wish at a carnival machine to be big. He wakes up the following morning to find that it has been granted, his body having grown older overnight, yet he remains the same 13-year-old boy inside. Suddenly thrust into the unfamiliar world of grown-ups, Josh must learn how to cope with adult responsibilities, including getting a job and navigating his first romantic encounter with a woman, as he discovers the complexities of this strange new existence. Penny Marshall's *Big* undoubtedly earns its place among her best directorial efforts, showcasing her singular talent for infusing fantastical premises with profound human heart and humor. Marshall masterfully steered Tom Hanks to an Academy Award-nominated performance, allowing him to perfectly capture the innocent wonder and confusion of a child trapped in an adult's body. Her direction expertly balanced the film's comedic potential—epitomized by the iconic FAO Schwarz piano scene—with a genuine exploration of growing up, responsibility, and the bittersweet loss of childhood. Both a critical and commercial smash, *Big* remains a timeless classic, a testament to Marshall's sensitive storytelling and her ability to craft films that resonate deeply with audiences of all ages.
Rodman (2020)
#44.0It appears there might be a misunderstanding regarding the inclusion of "Rodman (2020)" on a list of Penny Marshall's best movies. Penny Marshall, the celebrated director known for classics like *Big*, *Awakenings*, and *A League of Their Own*, passed away in December 2018. Given her passing, it would have been impossible for her to have directed or been directly involved in a film released in 2020. Therefore, "Rodman (2020)" cannot genuinely belong to a list of her works. While Penny Marshall's legacy continues to inspire and her body of work is rightly celebrated for its unique blend of heart, humor, and memorable characters, "Rodman (2020)" falls entirely outside her directorial or creative timeline. Any association of this film with her direct involvement would be factually incorrect, making its inclusion on a list of *her* best movies inappropriate. Her acclaimed filmography stands firmly within the decades prior to this release.
Riding in Cars with Boys (2001)
#55.0Penny Marshall's *Riding in Cars with Boys* (2001) vividly brings to life the tumultuous journey of Beverly D'Onofrio. The film directly follows the provided description, showcasing Beverly (portrayed by Drew Barrymore) as a hopeful aspiring writer whose life dramatically alters when she becomes a mother at the tender age of 15 in 1965. Her youthful dreams collide with the harsh realities of a challenging marriage to her son's drug-addicted father, chronicling decades of struggle, resilience, and the complex, often strained, bond she shares with her child. It’s a poignant and often funny exploration of youthful ambition derailed by circumstance, and the enduring effort to reclaim one's identity. This compelling drama earns its place among the "Best Penny Marshall Movies" because it perfectly embodies her signature directorial strengths. Marshall consistently championed stories centered on resilient, relatable women navigating challenging circumstances, and Beverly D'Onofrio epitomizes this archetype. The film showcases Marshall's deft ability to blend humor with genuine heartache, finding the light and the struggles in everyday life without shying away from difficult truths. Like many of her acclaimed works, *Riding in Cars with Boys* is grounded in a strong, character-driven narrative, often drawing from real-life experiences (as this story is based on Beverly Donofrio's memoir). Her direction allows for nuanced performances, particularly from Drew Barrymore, making Beverly's journey both empathetic and memorable, solidifying its standing as a significant and quintessentially Penny Marshall film.
Renaissance Man (1994)
#66.0Danny DeVito stars as Bill Rago in "Renaissance Man," an advertising executive whose life spirals downhill after being fired from his job in Detroit. Faced with unemployment, he's unexpectedly assigned by the state to a peculiar new role: teaching "thinking skills" to a motley crew of underperforming Army recruits on a military base. Arriving to find no established curriculum or structure, the cynical Rago is forced to improvise, using classic literature—from Shakespeare's *Hamlet* to *Moby Dick*—to challenge the initially resistant and unmotivated soldiers, aiming to ignite their minds and help them discover their own potential. "Renaissance Man" firmly belongs on a list of Best Penny Marshall Movies because it perfectly encapsulates her signature directorial style: a heartwarming blend of humor, genuine emotion, and an unwavering affection for underdogs. Much like her acclaimed films *Big* and *A League of Their Own*, Marshall masterfully crafts a narrative about unlikely individuals finding purpose and discovering their extraordinary capabilities against the odds. She expertly balances the comedic clashes between DeVito's intellectual wit and the soldiers' raw energy with deeply felt moments of growth and self-discovery, emphasizing the transformative power of education and belief. Marshall's direction elevates the film beyond a simple comedy, making it an inspiring and quintessential entry in her celebrated filmography.
Jumpin' Jack Flash (1986)
#77.0In *Jumpin' Jack Flash* (1986), Whoopi Goldberg stars as Terry Doolittle, a quick-witted bank employee who navigates the burgeoning world of early computer networks to communicate with clients globally. Her routine takes a sharp turn when she receives a strange, coded message from an unknown source. After successfully decoding the message, Terry inadvertently becomes embroiled in a dangerous international espionage ring. Suddenly, she's thrust into a world of murder, betrayal, and relentless pursuit, as she remains in clandestine contact with her mysterious correspondent – a British spy who desperately needs her help to save his life. Directed by the esteemed Penny Marshall, *Jumpin' Jack Flash* stands as a significant early entry in her impressive filmography. It perfectly showcases Marshall's knack for directing character-driven comedies that blend humor with genuine suspense. Marshall skillfully harnesses Whoopi Goldberg's unique comedic timing and charismatic presence, allowing her to carry the film with a mix of vulnerability and audacious wit. The film's strength lies in its ability to balance intense spy thriller elements with laugh-out-loud moments, creating a highly entertaining and rewatchable experience. As one of Marshall's first major directorial efforts, it established her ability to deliver mainstream hits that resonate with audiences, making it a deserving inclusion on any "Best Penny Marshall Movies" list for its distinctive blend of action, comedy, and a truly unforgettable lead performance.
The Preacher's Wife (1996)
#88.0Penny Marshall's heartwarming holiday classic, *The Preacher's Wife* (1996), centers on the struggles of Reverend Henry Biggs (Courtney B. Vance). A good-natured man, Biggs finds his marriage to his choir mistress wife, Julia (Whitney Houston), is flagging due to his constant absence caring for their deprived neighborhood. Compounding his personal woes, his beloved church faces an existential threat from property developer Joe Hamilton. In desperation, Rev. Biggs prays to God for a miracle, and an unexpected answer arrives in the charismatic form of an angel named Dudley (Denzel Washington), who comes not just to help Henry, but perhaps to remind everyone of what truly matters. As a directorial effort from Penny Marshall, *The Preacher's Wife* perfectly encapsulates her signature touch: a heartfelt narrative, strong character performances, and an uplifting message. Known for her ability to craft charming, relatable, and often emotionally resonant stories, Marshall brought a warmth and sincerity to this modern update of the classic film *The Bishop's Wife*. She deftly balances the spiritual and the secular, allowing stars Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington to shine with their undeniable chemistry and the film's memorable musical numbers. Its blend of fantasy, romance, and holiday spirit, all underscored by Marshall's empathetic direction, solidifies its place as one of her most beloved and enduring works, making it a natural fit for any "Best Penny Marshall Movies" list.
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