There’s Something About Mary, released in theaters on July 15, 1998, is a groundbreaking romantic comedy that fearlessly pushed the boundaries of gross-out humor while maintaining a surprisingly sweet and endearing core. Directed by the Farrelly Brothers, this film is a relentless barrage of outrageous gags, memorable characters, and a central love story that, against all odds, manages to be genuinely charming.
The story begins in 1985, when painfully awkward high school student Ted Stroehmann (Ben Stiller) gets a chance to go to prom with the beautiful and popular Mary Jensen (Cameron Diaz). However, a disastrous and extremely embarrassing incident involving a zipper quickly ends their date and Ted’s hopes.
Thirteen years later, still obsessed with Mary, Ted hires sleazy private investigator Pat Healy (Matt Dillon) to track her down. Healy finds Mary in Miami but, immediately smitten himself, lies to Ted about her and begins his own elaborate scheme to win her over.
What follows is a hilarious and increasingly convoluted series of events as Ted, Healy, and a host of other eccentric suitors (each with their own deceptive tactics) converge on Mary, leading to outrageous misunderstandings, physical comedy, and a chaotic competition for her affection.
Diaz is radiant and utterly charming as Mary Jensen. She embodies the character’s genuine sweetness and effortless appeal, making it entirely believable why so many men would go to such extreme lengths to win her over. Diaz grounds the film’s absurdity with her natural warmth.
Stiller delivers a classic performance as Ted Stroehmann, the earnest and perpetually unlucky protagonist. Stiller’s ability to maintain a straight face and a sympathetic demeanor amidst the most humiliating situations is a comedic masterclass, making him incredibly relatable despite the outlandish scenarios.
Dillon is brilliantly despicable and hilarious as Pat Healy, the sleazy private investigator. Dillon fully commits to Healy’s deceptive and often disgusting tactics, making him a perfect comedic foil and rival.
Cameron Diaz and Matt Dillon in There’s Something About Mary (Photo/20th Century Fox)
Keith David plays Charlie, Charlie, Mary and Warren’s stepfather.
Chris Elliott is unforgettable as Dom Woganowski, Ted’s quirky and persistent best friend.
Markie Post appears as Sheila Jensen, Mary and Warren’s mother.
Sarah Silverman plays Brenda, Mary’s sarcastic best friend.
Harland Williams is The Hitchhiker, an escaped mental patient and murderer.
Reception for There’s Something About Mary
There’s Something About Mary grossed $13.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth behind Armageddon, Lethal Weapon 4 and The Mask of Zorro.
The film would reach the top spot at the box office in its eighth weekend, topping the charts on Labor Day weekend with $10.9 million.
The film grossed$176.5 million domestically and $369.9 million worldwide on a budget of $23 million.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
There’s Something About Mary is a bold and fearless comedy that redefined the genre. It’s a non-stop laugh riot that, despite its shock humor, manages to deliver a genuinely sweet and ultimately satisfying romantic story, cementing its place as a beloved and influential classic.
