10 Movies People Initially Thought Were A Joke

10. Punch Drunk Love

By 2002 it appeared Adam Sandler was beginning to lose his cinematic appeal. Back then, films such as The Waterboy, Big Daddy and Little Nicky gave people the impression that Sandler was losing his comedic touch and that maybe he should change his approach to cinema. However, 1998's The Wedding Singer proved that Sandler was capable of more serious roles, and his appearance in Punch Drunk Love only cemented that fact.

Acclaimed director Paul Thomas Anderson, the genius behind drama Boogie Nights and psychological epic Magnolia, decided to take a chance on Sandler in a very serious role - that of Barry Egan; a man who falls in love with his sister’s English co-worker whilst being extorted by a phone-sex line run by a crooked mattress salesman. Punch Drunk Love is a subversive film that leans on the wacky side with its comedic set pieces, but the film hides a serious, emotional and heartfelt message underneath it all.

By having Sandler as the lead role, it helped revitalise his career. People expected disappointing wacky comedy, but they were given a serious emotional story that left a lasting impact. As a result, Punch Drunk Love was lauded by critics and although Sandler returned to making silly comedies afterwards, it proved that he was capable of great dramatic performances.