In praise of goofball Adam Sandler — the man we need for America’s divisive times

nypost.com:

trailer for “Happy Gilmore 2” dropped this week and it was received enthusiastically across social media, like a much needed hug from an old friend.Adam Sandler himself posted it on X with the sweet caption, “Hope you all have fun and thanks for all the great times.”In a world that’s so cynical, so divided, where everything is examined through a political lens, Sandler is a wisecracking, healing salve in oversized basketball shorts.The sequel to the beloved 1996 comedy about the hard hitting hockey player turned unlikely golf pro, might end up being crapola.

But that’s not the point. The nostalgia simply felt good.Hello again, Happy, you lovable lunatic. We could say the same about his creator, Sandler, who has emerged as a man for our polarized times.Who else but this lovable Jewish schlub could steal the show at the black tie Oscars in a teal hoodie?It’s been 30 years since Sandler left “Saturday Night Live” and cemented himself as a successful comedic actor with “Billy Madison,” about a wealthy, man-child slacker.From there he has been prolific.

He churned out funny flicks – like “The Waterboy,” “Big Daddy” “The Wedding Singer” and yes, “Happy Gilmore” – creating instant classics beloved across generations.More serious roles have shown off his versatility.

He earned praise for his dramatic turn in “Punch Drunk Love” and his frenetic performance in “Uncut Gems” as a jeweler drowning in his compulsive gambling habit.