You might know Jimmy Fallon for making "Saturday Night Live" (or "SNL") a global hit, with many unforgettable performances and moments! However, did you know that his first foray into film acting wasn't all that amazing? You might be thinking that with Fallon's incredible charm, it's no surprise to learn how many people were fans! But when he first left "SNL", the movie, Taxi had everyone confused!
Jimmy Fallon’s Early Movie Career
The year was 1998. Fallon was tapped for his first major career role! In fact, at 24 years old he brought audiences tons of laughs. For many years, "SNL" fans had a really strong, fun experience watching Fallon! As a host on "SNL" for many years. He was a fan favorite! The host got all kinds of accolades. But when he left the show in 2004 and was trying to branch out. Well, it wasn't as successful! He transitioned to film but things took a major downward turn for the host and comedian.
Taxi's Shocking Debut:
Fallon didn't slow down. He quickly transitioned from "SNL". His very first major movie was called Taxi.
- He played the role of "Andy" or, "Andrew" Washburn.
- A rookie police officer. A character, you might think that Fallon is made for with his ability to really act the role out.
- However, he wasn't the main attraction! Instead, his co-star was Queen Latifah.
The story is super straightforward. They are partners. This Action Comedy took a big flop!
There is something quite strange about the way it went. Many people had loved Fallon's performance in "SNL.", it might make you think this could go well but it turns out "Taxi" was incredibly unsuccessful! What might stand out is a 9% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The reviewer for Chicago Reader, really went into why Fallon's performance was terrible!
Fallon’s Filmography:
Fans who've watched Fallon's big, screen career over the years. They really want a new project for Fallon to star in, however, it appears that some might not even want that. After "Taxi," Fallon went on to make other Movies, which, although not nearly as bad.
A collection of Films had varying results, though fans are likely not rushing to watch the projects.
- Fever Pitch - came out in 2005.
- It had an okay 66% rating, on Rotten Tomatoes.
- In 2006. There were a couple of releases with a mixed reception, Doogal at 8%, and Arthur and the Invisibles, also scoring 22% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Fans might get the sense, from the low, critics' scores that this might be where his screen career stalled.
The reviews don't get better. But, that doesn't mean it was a big shock, after "Taxi", the general consensus seems to have solidified that perhaps a long, acting career was never meant to be. Even the fact that it appeared in some marketing materials around the launch of Fallon's "Late Night" career seemed to acknowledge how those low reviews seemed to have left their mark, as they used this to try to sell his comedy to a new generation.
For Fallon the transition seemed a bit easier on television than it did with movies, and maybe that was for the best! After "Late Night," he was chosen for one of the most beloved, iconic TV shows of all time: "The Tonight Show". Fallon even achieved some pretty incredible things, staying on as host for more than a decade, leaving an unforgettable legacy in his own way! It turns out, those who had such high hopes for Fallon, did see this great comedic career take shape. Just not quite in the manner many may have imagined! The world is all about giving things a try and he didn't let those bad moments stop him!
input