With this in mind, this list looks at some of the star’s must-see movies.
They cover the full spectrum of Lemmon’s talents.
Godell wrestles with his conscience and is forced to make a life-altering decision.
Image via United Artists
His transformation from loyal company man to desperate whistleblower is one of the film’s highlights.
I’m trying to keep it moist.
Just a little bit moist!
Image via Columbia Pictures
“The Odd Coupleisa legendary comedyanimated by the spectacular comedic chemistry between Lemmon andWalter Matthau.
The clash between Felix’s meticulous habits and Oscar’s slovenly ways results in hilarious confrontations.
It’s essentially a classic screwball comedy but with two male leads.
I don’t know what to say.
It interweaves multiple stories of love, betrayal, and discontent in Los Angeles.
Despite limited screen time,Lemmon’s performance is very moving.
His monologue about past failures and regret is one of the films standout moments.
While not flawless,Short Cutsis an ambitious and impressive movie, jam-packed with food for thought.
Most of all, it succeeds because almost all of its characters are incredibly layered and well-drawn.
Though the direction is occasionally muddled, Spacek and Lemmon are more than strong enough to compensate.
They make the viewer care deeply about these characters.
6Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
Directed by James Foley
“The leads are weak?
“Glengarry Glen Rossisan acting showcase filled with powerhouse performances, and Lemmon is one of its strongest elements.
Plus, the wonderfully foul-mouthed writing just never gets old.
It was the most god-awful sound in the world.
Image by Paramount Pictures
For this reason, it ranks among directorBlake Edwards' very best work.
We cant decide in five minutes.”
Still, Lemmon is a close second, playing his character with quiet dignity and unwavering resolve.
His calm, measured performance contrasts beautifully with the growing frustration of the other jurors.
Politics is powernothing more.
Though the script doesn’t give him all that much to work,the actor is predictably solid.
His weary, fearful demeanor adds to the sense of paranoia that permeates the film.
He and the rest of the cast are given uncountable great lines, like “Real diamonds!
They must be worth their weight in gold!”
and “Look how she moves!
Thats just like Jell-O on springs!”
1’The Apartment' (1960)
“Shut up and deal.”
Blending romance, drama, and sharp social commentary,The Apartmentfollows C.C.
This is Lemmon at his most nuanced, seamlessly shifting between humor and heartbreaking vulnerability.
He plays Bud as an everyman, stuck in a moral crisis while desperately yearning for a better life.
Image via Universal Pictures
Not to mention, his chemistry with MacLaine is electric.
The finished product is a movie that expertly balances comedy and melancholy.
The Apartment was arguably ahead of its time and is still wonderful today.
NEXT:10 Essential Daniel Day-Lewis Movies, Ranked
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