Top Picks: Steve Martin At 80

Charismatic, incomparable, and undeniably funny. These are only a few words to describe legendary comedian Steve Martin. With a career spanning nearly sixty years, Martin has kept audiences laughing thanks to his work in comedy. From his early days as a comedy writer and guest host for Saturday Night Live to establishing himself as a Grammy and Emmy award-winning actor, Steve Martin has become a household name thanks to roles in films shows such as Parenthood and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. We celebrate this AFI Lifetime Achievement recipient as he turns 80 on August 14.

Having one child can be a challenge. But twelve? There's no such thing as quiet in the Baker household. In the cult classic Cheaper by the Dozen, Martin portrays the family patriarch, Tom Baker. Martin's sardonic and comedic timing makes the film worthwhile.

Throughout his career, Martin has portrayed many characters, but workaholic tax attorney Peter Sanderson might be his greatest. In Bringing Down the House, the characters' mettle is tested thanks to a blind date with Charlene (played by Queen Latifah), a wrongfully convicted felon looking to prove her innocence. Witty, sharp, and unyielding, Martin proves himself a match against the Grammy-winning rapper in this comedy classic.

What happens when an uptight marketing executive and an annoying salesman miss their flight? A slippery slope of misadventures. The road trip comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles sees Steve Martin and the late John Candy light up the silver screen as polar opposites. Martin's portrayal of the staunch and rigid Neal compliments Candy's portrayal of the gregarious and friendly Del, resulting in a comical, touching and cinematic delight.

While Martin is widely known as a comedian, he has also established himself as an equally successful author. His debut novella Shopgirl is a poignant and compelling story that introduces the ambitious yet depressed Michelle Buttersfield, who is trying to find her place in the world.

Whether he's making audiences roar with laughter during his stand-up routines or showcasing his trademark wit on the silver screen, Steve Martin remains a national treasure in pop culture. What are some of your favorite films by the iconic comedian? Sound off in the comments below.