An instantly recognisable face from the world of cinema, Jim Carrey is one of the best actors of his generation and has featured in some of the most memorable movies ever made. He is a Hollywood star who has not only travelled the world making movies but has a global appeal after appearing in a number of iconic releases.

Over the years, the hilarious funnyman has made a name for himself with his energetic, slapstick performances, which have made many of his smash-hit movies what they are today. Simply put, without Jim Carrey, a number of classics might not have had the success they did. His remarkable rise into becoming a household name certainly didn’t appear to be on the cards when he landed his first-ever role on American sketch comedy television series, In Living Color. Since then, Carrey has starred in some true masterpieces. Below is a look at five of his best performances. 

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

A release focussing on the fragility of memory and love, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a movie from 2004 which tops many peoples’ lists. Written by Charlie Kaufman, it features a couple that keeps meeting even though they’ve erased all memories of each other. It’s certainly a bizarre watch, but it’s also hard to forget, too. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, which certainly comes as no surprise.

Liar Liar (1997)

A true classic, Liar Liar is arguably the most loved Jim Carrey movie ever made. In the movie, his character essentially spends an hour and a half possessed by a spirit that prevents him from lying. Following the story of a successful lawyer who has risen to the top after mastering the art of lying, his life takes a dramatic turn when his son wishes he wouldn’t lie for a day. Not many other stars could have nailed the role as Carrey did, that’s for sure. 

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

A movie release that cemented Carrey as one of the funniest actors on the big screen, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is a comedic masterpiece despite some of its jokes not ageing too well. The movie is so iconic that it has even been turned into a game, namely the Ace Ventura online slot game at casino.com and is loved by millions to this day, largely down to Jim Carrey and his character. With endless classic lines and a range of funny twitches, this pet detective-themed release serves up a huge hose of humour in what is a hilarious watch. Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls is another one to watch, too. 

Me, Myself and Irene (2000)

Following the story of a demented state trooper with multiple personalities, Me, Myself and Irene grossed $149 million and was an undoubted success when it was released in 2000. With Hank, Carrey’s alter ego, having to escort Irene to New York, his personality disorder takes over, which, in turn, helps create one of the funniest movies you’ll ever see. 

The Cable Guy (1996)

When The Cable Guy was released in 1996, many audiences didn’t quite understand it. Some critics labelled the Ben Stiller-directed movie as too dark and weird, but they couldn’t have been further from the truth. These days, the movie is appreciated for what it is - a cult classic. It didn’t put Ben Stiller off directing in the future either, with Zoolander and Tropic Thunder being created off the back of it. The Cable Guy might leave you not wanting to have cable installed in your home, though.