Big Daddy

This "adoption-by-proxy" comedy is a perfect example of how a sparkling central performance can make even the most crudely sentimental fluff hilariously palatable. Thanks to Adam Sandler and his infectious goofball sweetness, this film works like a charm, even though the story springs few surprises. Sandler doesn't stray far from his slacker persona here, playing a lazy loafer who takes his flatmate's love-child under his wing. They bond, and, thanks to parental responsibility, he's a changed man, even attracting the interest of Miss Right, Joey Lauren Adams. Yes, it's contrived, mawkish and manipulative, but Happy Gilmore director Dennis Dugan's effortless handling of the tale and Sandler's confident puppy-dog demeanour ensure that it delivers huge laughs. Sandler haters beware, however, he alone gives Big Daddy its big heart.