Fletch (1985)

Chevy Chase stars as Irwin "Fletch" Fletcher, a wisecracking investigative reporter known for his unorthodox methods and knack for getting the story, even if it means driving his editor mad. In this iconic 1985 comedy, Fletch's latest assignment lands him undercover as a homeless man on the beach, investigating a drug ring. His investigation takes a bizarre turn when a wealthy businessman, Alan Stanwyk, approaches him with a startling proposition: $50,000 to commit murder. Instead of accepting the deadly deal, Fletch, ever the tenacious journalist, smells a much larger story and decides to expose the truth behind the suspicious offer. "Fletch" stands as a prime example of Michael Ritchie's directorial talent for capturing a specific cultural moment and creating compelling, character-driven comedies. Ritchie excels at portraying protagonists who operate outside the established order, often to expose hypocrisy or incompetence, and Fletch embodies this perfectly. The film’s sharp dialogue, Chase's effortless charisma in embodying multiple personas, and the underlying satirical commentary on corporate corruption and societal apathy all resonate with Ritchie's signature style. This blend of humor, intrigue, and social observation makes "Fletch" a standout in his filmography and a definitive entry in the "Best Michael Ritchie Movies" list.