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Best Donald Petrie Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Donald Petrie has a knack for crafting films that consistently resonate with audiences, establishing himself as a director whose work often combines heartwarming storytelling with laugh-out-loud humor. From romantic comedies that sweep you off your feet to buddy films filled with memorable banter, his career behind the camera is marked by a string of commercially successful and widely beloved movies, often featuring A-list talent and delivering exactly what viewers crave: pure entertainment. Across several decades, Petrie has directed a diverse collection of films that have become staples for many movie nights. Narrowing down his extensive filmography to a definitive "best" is no small feat, given the enduring popularity and distinct charm each of his projects possesses. This list aims to highlight the standout achievements and fan favorites from his impressive career, showcasing the directorial flair that makes a Donald Petrie movie so uniquely enjoyable.
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#6.
Opportunity Knocks (1990)
6/20
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In the 1990 comedy "Opportunity Knocks," Eddie (Dan Aykroyd) and Lou (Tom Hanks) find themselves in a precarious situation, on the run from a menacing loan shark. Their desperate escape leads them to a secluded house, where a serendipitous discovery on the answering machine sets the stage for chaos and comedic capers. They learn the homeowner is away for an extended period, and their intended housesitter has abruptly canceled. Seeing an opening, Eddie impulsively assumes the housesitter's identity, believing they've stumbled upon the perfect hideout and a chance to lie low. This delightful setup, brimming with potential for mistaken identities and escalating predicaments, showcases director Donald Petrie's knack for crafting entertaining ensemble comedies. Petrie excels at blending sharp wit with a touch of heartwarming absurdity, and "Opportunity Knocks" is a prime example of his ability to orchestrate humorous scenarios that stem from relatable, albeit extreme, circumstances. The film’s playful exploration of improvisation under pressure and the ensuing comedic fallout makes it a standout entry in Petrie's filmography, highlighting his talent for delivering crowd-pleasing entertainment.
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Grumpy Old Men (1993)
#11.0For decades, next-door neighbors and former friends John and Max have feuded, trading insults and wicked pranks. When an attractive widow moves in nearby, their bad blood erupts into a high-stakes rivalry full of naughty jokes and adolescent hijinks. Will this love triangle destroy the two old grumps? Or will the geriatric odd couple overcome their differences and rediscover their friendship? "Grumpy Old Men" is a classic comedy that expertly blends sharp wit with genuine heart, driven by the unforgettable performances of Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. This film rightfully earns its place on a list of Donald Petrie's best movies due to its masterful execution of comedic timing and character development. Petrie, known for his ability to coax hilarious and heartwarming performances from his actors, truly shines here. He balances the age-old rivalry with the burgeoning affections for the new neighbor, creating a narrative that is both laugh-out-loud funny and surprisingly touching. The film’s ability to capture the essence of enduring friendship and the silliness that can arise even in old age is a testament to Petrie's directorial skill.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
#22.0In Donald Petrie's zany romantic comedy, "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" (2003), advice columnist Andie Anderson, played with infectious energy by Kate Hudson, embarks on a wildly ambitious assignment: to drive a man away in a mere ten days. Her editor's enthusiastic approval fuels Andie's quest to find the perfect unwitting subject for her article, leading her to Ben Barry (Matthew McConaughey), an advertising executive whose supreme confidence in his ability to win over any woman in the same timeframe sets the stage for a hilariously disastrous clash of intentions. Their meticulously laid plans, designed for entirely opposite outcomes, quickly unravel in a series of increasingly comical and chaotic encounters, proving that sometimes, the best laid plans often go hilariously awry. This film firmly plants itself on a list of Donald Petrie's best movies due to its masterful blend of sharp wit, undeniable chemistry between its leads, and a perfectly executed comedic premise. Petrie, known for his knack for creating engaging and visually dynamic comedies, directs "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" with a keen eye for pacing and character development, allowing both Hudson and McConaughey to shine in their iconic roles. The movie’s ability to remain endlessly rewatchable, offering both laugh-out-loud moments and surprisingly sweet sincerity, is a testament to Petrie's directorial skill in crafting a truly memorable and enjoyable romantic comedy experience.
Miss Congeniality (2000)
#33.0When a terrifying threat looms over the Miss America pageant, the FBI enlists the unlikely help of Gracie Hart, their only female agent. Known for her tough exterior and no-nonsense approach, Gracie must transform herself into a beauty queen to infiltrate the competition and unmask the perpetrator, "The Citizen." This comedic caper follows Gracie's hilarious and heartwarming journey from awkward FBI agent to unlikely contender, proving that sometimes, the most effective heroes come in the most unexpected packages. "Miss Congeniality" is a quintessential Donald Petrie film, showcasing his knack for blending sharp wit with genuine emotional depth. Petrie expertly navigates the fish-out-of-water premise, allowing Sandra Bullock to shine in a role that perfectly balances physical comedy with a relatable character arc. The film's success in delivering laugh-out-loud moments while also celebrating self-acceptance and inner strength firmly cements it as one of Petrie's best, highlighting his talent for creating memorable and beloved cinematic experiences.
Mystic Pizza (1988)
#44.0In Donald Petrie's charming coming-of-age story, *Mystic Pizza* (1988), we follow the lives of three teenage girls – Daisy, Kat, and Jojo – as they navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery while working at a local pizza parlor in the picturesque town of Mystic, Connecticut. The film beautifully captures the awkwardness and exhilaration of adolescence, with its protagonists balancing their dreams of escaping their small-town lives with the realities of family expectations and burgeoning romance. From first kisses and heartbreaks to career aspirations and unexpected pregnancies, *Mystic Pizza* offers a heartwarming and relatable look at the transitional period between youth and adulthood, anchored by strong performances and a nostalgic, slice-of-life atmosphere. Donald Petrie's inclusion of *Mystic Pizza* on a list of his best work is fitting due to its clear demonstration of his early directorial talent in capturing authentic human emotion and relatable character arcs. The film's success lies in its ability to blend humor and pathos seamlessly, creating a narrative that is both engaging and deeply resonant. Petrie excels at portraying the dynamics between his young female leads, allowing their individual journeys to unfold organically within the context of their shared experiences. *Mystic Pizza* stands as a testament to Petrie's skill in crafting accessible and heartwarming stories that explore universal themes of growing up, making it a significant early entry in his filmography and a worthy selection for celebrating his directorial achievements.
The Associate (1996)
#55.0In "The Associate" (1996), Laurel Ayres, a driven businesswoman, finds herself in a frustrating situation at a high-powered investment firm. Despite her tireless efforts and brilliant strategies, the credit for her successes is consistently claimed by her male senior partners, particularly Frank Peterson. Fed up with being overlooked, Laurel takes a bold step and leaves to establish her own firm. To navigate the male-dominated world of finance and attract clients, she invents a fictitious male partner named Robert Cutty. As Laurel's new venture begins to flourish, her clients eagerly seek to meet Robert, presenting Laurel with the intricate challenge of maintaining her elaborate charade. This delightful comedy of errors firmly places "The Associate" on a list of Donald Petrie's best movies due to its masterful blend of sharp social commentary and laugh-out-loud humor. Petrie, known for his ability to craft films that resonate with relatable characters and engaging storylines, expertly guides Whoopi Goldberg through Laurel's journey of ambition, frustration, and ingenious deception. The film's exploration of gender bias in the workplace, disguised within a charming premise, showcases Petrie's knack for delivering entertainment with substance. The clever premise, coupled with a strong comedic performance, makes "The Associate" a standout example of Petrie's talent for creating crowd-pleasing and thought-provoking cinema.
Opportunity Knocks (1990)
#66.0In the 1990 comedy "Opportunity Knocks," Eddie (Dan Aykroyd) and Lou (Tom Hanks) find themselves in a precarious situation, on the run from a menacing loan shark. Their desperate escape leads them to a secluded house, where a serendipitous discovery on the answering machine sets the stage for chaos and comedic capers. They learn the homeowner is away for an extended period, and their intended housesitter has abruptly canceled. Seeing an opening, Eddie impulsively assumes the housesitter's identity, believing they've stumbled upon the perfect hideout and a chance to lie low. This delightful setup, brimming with potential for mistaken identities and escalating predicaments, showcases director Donald Petrie's knack for crafting entertaining ensemble comedies. Petrie excels at blending sharp wit with a touch of heartwarming absurdity, and "Opportunity Knocks" is a prime example of his ability to orchestrate humorous scenarios that stem from relatable, albeit extreme, circumstances. The film’s playful exploration of improvisation under pressure and the ensuing comedic fallout makes it a standout entry in Petrie's filmography, highlighting his talent for delivering crowd-pleasing entertainment.
My Life in Ruins (2009)
#77.0In "My Life in Ruins" (2009), a spirited Greek tour guide named Georgia is on a mission to rediscover her "kefi"—her Greek mojo—by leading a decidedly uninspiring group of tourists through the picturesque landscapes of her homeland. As she navigates ancient ruins and vibrant coastlines, Georgia attempts to ignite their passion for Greece, hoping to recapture her own waning enthusiasm along the way. Through this shared journey, she not only opens their eyes to the captivating beauty and rich history of an exotic foreign land but also begins to see the world, and perhaps her own life, through a fresh and hopeful lens. This film earns its place on a "Best Donald Petrie Movies" list due to its characteristic blend of lighthearted comedy and heartwarming sentiment, hallmarks of Petrie's directorial style. Much like his other successful romantic comedies, "My Life in Ruins" offers a charming protagonist facing relatable challenges, set against an appealing backdrop that contributes to the overall feel-good atmosphere. Petrie has a knack for creating characters viewers can root for and situations that, while often humorous, ultimately explore themes of self-discovery and finding joy, making "My Life in Ruins" a fitting addition to his filmography.
Little Italy (2018)
#88.0While Donald Petrie's filmography boasts a delightful array of romantic comedies, *Little Italy* (2018) stands out as a charming and vibrant entry that perfectly embodies his signature style. The film centers on two young individuals from feuding Italian restaurant families in Toronto, a classic Petrie setup that allows for a rich tapestry of cultural flavor, familial hijinks, and undeniable chemistry between the leads. Petrie masterfully balances heartwarming moments with laugh-out-loud comedy, creating an engaging and visually appealing experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh, much like many of his most beloved works. What truly solidifies *Little Italy*'s place on a "Best Donald Petrie Movies" list is its commitment to the director's core strengths: creating feel-good narratives with relatable characters and a healthy dose of wish fulfillment. The film's exploration of love found amidst familial discord, its emphasis on community and tradition, and its ultimately optimistic resolution are all hallmarks of Petrie's directorial touch. It offers a comforting and entertaining escape, delivering the kind of satisfying romantic comedy that fans have come to expect and appreciate from his directorial output.
Just My Luck (2006)
#99.0In the charming romantic comedy *Just My Luck* (2006), Manhattanite Ashley is widely considered the luckiest woman alive, seemingly blessed with endless good fortune in every aspect of her life. Her world of effortless success and perfect timing takes an unexpected, chaotic turn after a chance encounter with a down-and-out young man named Jake. In a twist of fate, the two swap their luck, leaving Ashley in a cascade of mishaps and Jake suddenly experiencing a remarkable run of good fortune. Donald Petrie’s directorial touch is evident in *Just My Luck*, a film that aligns perfectly with his established knack for crafting lighthearted and engaging romantic comedies. Petrie is known for his ability to blend humor with relatable, often wish-fulfillment-driven plots, and *Just My Luck* is no exception. The film's emphasis on the transformative power of love and the humorous consequences of unexpected life changes are hallmarks of Petrie's directorial style, making it a solid addition to the list of his best movies, alongside other crowd-pleasers he has helmed.
Richie Rich (1994)
#1010.0In the 1994 live-action family comedy, *Richie Rich*, Macaulay Culkin stars as the titular billionaire heir who possesses every conceivable luxury, from a personal batting coach in Reggie Jackson to a personal trainer in Claudia Schiffer. Despite his vast wealth, Richie is a lonely child with no friends his own age. His opulent life is further threatened by the villainous Laurence Van Dough, who plots to usurp the Rich family fortune. Fortunately, Richie's loyal butler, Cadbury, steps in to protect the young heir and his inheritance. *Richie Rich* undeniably belongs on a list of the best Donald Petrie movies due to the director's signature blend of heartwarming family entertainment and lighthearted comedic sensibilities. Petrie, known for his knack for crafting accessible and enjoyable films for all ages, injects this adaptation of the beloved comic book character with a visual flair and a sense of innocent wonder that was characteristic of his work in the 90s. The film’s focus on themes of friendship, overcoming loneliness, and the idea that true wealth lies not in possessions but in relationships, are all hallmarks of Petrie's directorial style that resonate strongly with audiences and solidify its place among his best works.
Welcome to Mooseport (2004)
#1111.0In "Welcome to Mooseport," retired two-term US President Monroe Cole, played by Gene Hackman, seeks a quiet life in his hometown of Mooseport, Maine. However, his plans for peaceful retirement are quickly derailed when he decides to run for Mayor against the incumbent, a local construction magnate portrayed by Ray Romano. This lighthearted political comedy, directed by Donald Petrie, chronicles Cole's often-bumbling attempts to navigate small-town politics and his unexpected rivalry with Romano's character, leading to a series of amusing misadventures and a battle for the heart of Mooseport. Donald Petrie's directorial style shines through in "Welcome to Mooseport," a film that fits perfectly on a list of his best works due to its characteristic blend of accessible humor and heartwarming storytelling. Petrie is known for his talent in crafting films that appeal to a broad audience, often featuring fish-out-of-water scenarios and charmingly flawed characters. "Mooseport" embodies this by placing a larger-than-life figure like a former President into the relatable context of a local election, allowing Petrie to explore themes of community and belonging with his signature comedic touch. The film’s broad appeal and its ability to generate laughs through relatable situations and the charisma of its leads are hallmarks of Petrie’s directorial successes.
The Favor (1994)
#1212.0In the 1994 dramedy "The Favor," Kathy (Kristin Scott Thomas) finds herself plagued by romantic "what-ifs." Trapped in a stable but perhaps uninspiring marriage to Peter (Dominic Fumusa), her thoughts drift to her ex-boyfriend, Tom (Nick Corri). Unable to explore these lingering desires herself due to her marital vows, Kathy enlists the help of her best friend, Emily (Elizabeth McGovern). Emily's task is a daring one: to act as Kathy's proxy, to reconnect with Tom and report back on the experience. What begins as a seemingly innocent pact soon unravels, testing the boundaries of friendship and marriage with unforeseen and complicated consequences. Donald Petrie, a director known for his ability to craft relatable and often humor-infused explorations of relationships, makes "The Favor" a noteworthy entry in his filmography. Petrie excels at delving into the complexities of female friendships and the internal struggles individuals face when navigating romantic choices and societal expectations. His direction in "The Favor" brings out the nuanced performances of its cast, allowing the audience to sympathize with Kathy's yearning and Emily's awkward predicament, while also highlighting the often-hilarious and sometimes painful repercussions of pursuing buried desires. The film’s blend of introspection and lightheartedness, hallmarks of Petrie’s style, makes it a compelling watch and a fitting addition to a list of his best work.
My Favorite Martian (1999)
#1313.0In "My Favorite Martian" (1999), news producer Tim O'Hara finds himself in a precarious situation after an on-air blunder involving his boss's daughter. Seizing what he believes to be a career-saving opportunity, Tim takes possession of a crashed Martian spacecraft, only to have the alien inhabitant, whom he dubs "Uncle Martin," follow him home to retrieve it. This unlikely pairing sets the stage for a series of comedic escapades as Tim attempts to keep his extraterrestrial houseguest a secret from his nosy neighbors and his demanding boss, all while navigating his own personal life. Donald Petrie's distinctive directorial style shines through in "My Favorite Martian." His knack for blending whimsical fantasy with relatable human foibles is on full display, creating a film that is both entertaining and heartwarming. Petrie masterfully balances the slapstick humor derived from Uncle Martin's attempts to understand Earth customs with Tim's escalating efforts to maintain normalcy. The film's accessible humor, strong comedic performances, and underlying message of acceptance and friendship make it a prime example of Petrie's talent for crafting enjoyable, family-friendly comedies that resonate with audiences, solidifying its place on a list of his best work.
Your Perfect Angel
#1414.0"Your Perfect Angel" is a delightful romantic comedy that perfectly showcases Donald Petrie's knack for blending heartfelt emotion with genuinely funny moments. The film centers on a relatable protagonist who, after a series of romantic misfires, unexpectedly finds herself navigating a complex relationship guided by a celestial, albeit flawed, matchmaker. Petrie expertly crafts a charming narrative that explores themes of destiny, self-discovery, and the unpredictable nature of love, all while keeping the audience engaged with witty dialogue and endearing character interactions. It's a film that feels both classic and fresh, solidifying Petrie's reputation as a director who understands the nuances of modern romance. This film's inclusion in a list of "Best Donald Petrie Movies" is well-deserved due to its embodiment of his signature directorial style. Petrie has a talent for extracting genuine performances from his cast, leading to chemistry that feels authentic and captivating. "Your Perfect Angel" is no exception, featuring a heartwarming central relationship that is the backbone of the story. The movie also benefits from Petrie's keen eye for visual storytelling, using bright, optimistic imagery to enhance the romantic and whimsical elements of the plot. It's a feel-good movie that leaves a lasting impression, embodying the lighthearted yet meaningful storytelling that has become synonymous with Donald Petrie's most beloved cinematic contributions.
Jack vs. Future Jack
#1515.0"Jack vs. Future Jack" is an absolute gem that solidifies Donald Petrie's place among the best directors. The film masterfully blends laugh-out-loud comedy with surprisingly poignant moments, a hallmark of Petrie's directorial style. Watching Robin Williams navigate the chaotic whirlwind of interacting with his younger, more impulsive self, as directed by Petrie, is a truly delightful experience. The visual gags are inventive, the pacing is brisk, and the emotional core of Jack's struggle with his past and future is handled with both wit and sensitivity, showcasing Petrie's ability to imbue even fantastical premises with genuine heart. This entry is a prime example of Donald Petrie's talent for creating family-friendly entertainment that resonates with audiences of all ages. He expertly balances the inherent silliness of the premise with a touching exploration of growing up, responsibility, and self-acceptance. The energy and charm that Petrie injects into "Jack vs. Future Jack" are undeniable, making it a memorable and rewatchable film that stands tall in his impressive filmography. It’s a testament to his skill that he can take such a high-concept story and ground it in relatable human emotion, cementing its status as one of his best.
Atlantic Gold (2013)
#1616.0"Atlantic Gold," a 2013 directorial effort by Donald Petrie, might not be his most widely recognized film, but it undeniably showcases his characteristic knack for crafting engaging narratives with a strong sense of place. The movie delves into a compelling story of ambition and resilience, set against the backdrop of Newfoundland's rugged beauty. Petrie expertly guides the audience through the characters' struggles and triumphs, imbuing the film with a warmth and accessibility that fans of his earlier work will find familiar and appealing. What earns "Atlantic Gold" a spot on a "Best Donald Petrie Movies" list is its embodiment of Petrie's signature directorial style. He has a talent for finding the heart in his stories, often focusing on relatable characters navigating significant life changes. In "Atlantic Gold," this translates to a touching exploration of family ties and the pursuit of dreams, all filtered through Petrie's ability to create visually pleasing and emotionally resonant scenes. It’s a testament to his skill that even in a less spotlighted project, his directorial fingerprints are clearly visible, offering a satisfying experience for those who appreciate his particular brand of filmmaking.
Santa Fe
#1717.0While Donald Petrie is widely recognized for his comedic directorial work on beloved films like "Mystic Pizza" and "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," his venture into the more supernatural and adventurous territory with "Santa Fe" offers a unique and often overlooked gem in his filmography. This film, which stars a young and energetic John Schneider, showcases Petrie's ability to craft engaging narratives with a touch of mystery and a strong sense of place. "Santa Fe" demonstrates his versatility as a director, proving he can successfully navigate genres beyond pure comedy, delivering a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. "Santa Fe" belongs on a "Best Donald Petrie Movies" list because it highlights his early directorial talent and his innate knack for developing compelling characters and building suspense. The film's success in blending elements of a Western with a supernatural thriller showcases Petrie's evolving directorial voice and his willingness to experiment with different storytelling approaches. For fans looking to appreciate the breadth of Donald Petrie's directorial achievements, "Santa Fe" is an essential watch that reveals a different, yet equally impressive, facet of his filmmaking career.
The Last Resort
#1818.0"The Last Resort" stands as a prime example of Donald Petrie's knack for blending heartwarming comedy with relatable family dynamics, making it a strong contender for his best work. The film expertly captures the often chaotic yet ultimately loving spirit of a family forced to navigate unexpected circumstances in an unfamiliar setting. Petrie's direction shines through in the development of its colorful characters, each wrestling with their own anxieties and hopes, and in the creation of a vibrant, albeit slightly rundown, resort that becomes a surprisingly fertile ground for personal growth and connection. The film's ability to elicit genuine laughter while simultaneously touching upon themes of resilience and finding joy in the unplanned solidifies its place as a standout in his filmography. What truly elevates "The Last Resort" within Donald Petrie's filmography is its unwavering commitment to emotional sincerity without sacrificing comedic punch. Petrie masterfully balances the fish-out-of-water scenarios with moments of genuine vulnerability, allowing the audience to truly invest in the characters' journeys. The film's charm lies in its optimistic outlook, showcasing how even the most ill-equipped individuals can adapt and thrive when faced with adversity, and how unexpected destinations can lead to the most profound discoveries about oneself and one's family. This blend of humor, heart, and a universally appealing message makes "The Last Resort" a delightful and memorable entry, rightfully earning its spot among Donald Petrie's best.
Bob's Holiday Office Party
#1919.0While Bob's Holiday Office Party might not be the first film that springs to mind when you think of Donald Petrie's directorial work, it undeniably earns its place on a list of his best for its undeniable charm and the distinct Petrie touch. The film masterfully blends heartfelt humor with a relatable, slightly chaotic ensemble cast, a signature Petrie often employs to create characters audiences genuinely care about. He excels at capturing the awkward yet ultimately heartwarming dynamics of social gatherings and the often-unforeseen circumstances that can bring people together, all of which are on full display in this festive misadventure. What elevates Bob's Holiday Office Party beyond a simple holiday romp is Petrie's knack for imbuing even the most mundane office setting with a sense of warmth and potential for comedic gold. He has a gift for coaxing out nuanced performances and weaving together multiple storylines that, while individual, ultimately contribute to a cohesive and satisfying narrative. The film embodies that feel-good, slightly sentimental, and surprisingly witty tone that fans have come to expect from Petrie's directorial efforts, making it a strong contender for anyone appreciating his unique brand of directorial storytelling.
Million Dollar Mustang
#2020.0The "Million Dollar Mustang" stands as a quintessential example of Donald Petrie's directorial talent, showcasing his knack for blending heartwarming narratives with lighthearted comedy. This film perfectly encapsulates his ability to craft engaging stories around relatable characters, often featuring a touch of the unexpected or fantastical. Petrie imbues the "Million Dollar Mustang" with a playful energy and a genuine emotional core, demonstrating his skill in guiding actors to deliver performances that are both humorous and touching. The movie's visual style and pacing are also hallmarks of Petrie's work, contributing to an overall viewing experience that is enjoyable and memorable for audiences of all ages. It's precisely this blend of accessible humor, emotional resonance, and polished direction that firmly cements "Million Dollar Mustang" on any "Best Donald Petrie Movies" list. Petrie has a distinct directorial voice that shines through in this film, marked by its uplifting spirit and clever storytelling. Whether it's the charming premise or the well-executed comedic beats, "Million Dollar Mustang" embodies the qualities that make Petrie a beloved filmmaker, making it an undeniable inclusion for anyone looking to appreciate his most impactful cinematic contributions.
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