The 10 best films from the versatile director

Rob Reiner made at least one of your favorite movies, and no two are alike.

- MARK OLSEN AND JOSHUA ROTHKOPF

"THE PRINCESS BRIDE": Robin Wright and Cary Elwes' storybook tale has enchanted generations of adults and children alike.

Rob Reiner was born into the lineage of comedy thanks to his father, television pioneer Carl Reiner, and he first gained recognition as an actor, including his Emmy-winning role on “All in the Family.”

And while there is certainly a streak of humor through almost all of his films, what marks Reiner’s work as a director is his astonishing versatility, able to switch styles from one project to the next with remarkable ease. The run of films that begins with his feature directing debut, 1984’s “This Is Spinal Tap,” on through 1986's "Stand by Me," 1987's "The Princess Bride," 1989's "When Harry Met Sally...." 1990's "Misery," 1992's "A Few Good Men" and 1995's "The American President" is breathtaking for its mastery across the spectrum of popular Hollywood moviemaking.

"This Is Spinal Tap' (1984)

Though not strictly the first to explore the form, Reiner's first feature as director more or less cemented the concept of the "mockumentary," presenting itself as a documentary on the (fictional) rock band Spinal Tap. Reiner appeared onscreen as Marty DiBergi, director of the faux film within the film, forming a neat transition from his career as an actor to director.

And while this year's sequel, "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues," was not particularly well received, the legacy of the original, still among the most quotable comedies ever made, remains untouchable.-Mark Olsen.

"The Sure Thing' (1985)