Catherine O’Hara is a comedic icon, and disliking her could be a deal-breaker on a first date. With a career spanning from her days on SCTV to her recent success in Schitt’s Creek, O’Hara’s talent shines in every role she takes on. For fans of O’Hara, here’s a curated list of her top ten movie appearances.
1) Best In Show (2000)
In “Best In Show,” O’Hara portrays Cookie, the owner of a terrier, in the world of American dog shows. Her comedic prowess and physical comedy skills alongside Eugene Levy as Gerry make this movie a must-watch.
2) Beetlejuice (1988)
“Beetlejuice” showcases O’Hara as Delia, an eccentric stepmother in a haunted house, highlighting her comedic genius. The memorable dinner party scene solidifies O’Hara’s status as a comedy legend.
3) A Mighty Wind (2003)
In the heartfelt comedy “A Mighty Wind,” O’Hara and Levy play an old folk music duo reuniting for a memorial concert, delivering a touching performance that transcends the genre.
4) The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
O’Hara’s voice brings life to Sally, a rag doll character with a knack for mixing poisons and psychic visions, in the beloved holiday classic “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
5) Waiting For Guffman (1996)
O’Hara shines as a real estate agent and amateur theatre performer in “Waiting For Guffman,” delivering laughter alongside Fred Willard in this comedy following a community theatre group’s journey.
6) After Hours (1985)
O’Hara’s portrayal of Gail, an eccentric ice cream truck driver, adds chaos and humor to this film about a man’s night of misadventures, showcasing O’Hara’s comedic timing.
7) Home Alone (1990)
In the holiday favorite “Home Alone,” O’Hara plays a mother on a mission to reunite with her youngest child, showcasing her charm and warmth in this timeless Christmas film.
8) For Your Consideration (2006)
O’Hara steals the show in “For Your Consideration” as an actor unraveling under the pressure of a potential Oscar nomination, in this Christopher Guest-directed comedy about the entertainment industry.
9) The Life Before This (1999)
O’Hara’s award-winning performance in the Canadian indie film “The Life Before This” explores a tragic event and its lead-up, showcasing her versatility in a more serious role.
10) Home Fries (1998) – A Guilty Pleasure
Despite not making many top ten lists, “Home Fries” offers O’Hara portraying a manipulative mother with dark intentions, proving her acting prowess even in lesser-known films.