Big Daddy (1999)

Although laden with phlegm, urine, and vomit, Big Daddy also hurls a load of charm and a big heart at its audience. This Adam Sandler vehicle is a return to the goofy and apathetic style of Billy Madison with a touch of the adult sophistication of The Wedding Singer. The comedy contains a laundry list of standard Sandler-esque elements, including everything from bathroom gags to random/bizarre humor to a supporting role by Rob Schneider. Even with the heavy-handed sentimentality and the clichéd courtroom scene climax, this crass and often sloppy film surprisingly works. It will satisfy longtime Sandler fans with his adolescent humor and sudden outbursts of rage, while its mawkish plot will attract the mainstream viewers the comedian gained with The Wedding Singer. Steve Buscemi delivers some real zingers as a homeless nomad, while Peter Dante and Jonathan Loughran are perfect in their portrayal of an affectionate gay male couple. Despite its many flaws and sluggish pace, Big Daddy is indeed a satisfying comedy that isn't the typically juvenile Sandler yuckfest. Directed by Dennis Dugan, who also teamed up with Sandler in Happy Gilmore, this film contains sensitivity about an important subject. While the trademark goofy gags still exist, the filmmakers also address issues around adoption, success, and parenting. A far cry from Kramer vs. Kramer, the film is still refreshing as a movie that extols love and acceptance while simultaneously being as rude, crude, and lewd as possible. ~ Adam Goldberg, All Movie Guide