Top 10 Over the Top SNL Performances

“Two Wild & Crazy Guys: Computer Date”

The early days of “SNL” were full of classic characters, but few were as crazy and quotable as the Festrunk brothers. Played by Dan Aykroyd and Steve Martin, the Czech duo were a breakout success for their attempts to woo women and their signature catchphrase. This sketch follows the team as they prepare for their dates to arrive, having drinks and hanging out at their bachelor pad. Throughout the entire skit, Aykroyd and Martin are having tons of fun with their accents, wardrobe, and funky moves. Their two guests finally show up and are treated to the so-called charms of the painfully unaware hosts. With sheer bravado, these comedians provide a glimpse into the “wild and crazy” 70s!

“Haunted Elevator (ft. David S. Pumpkins)”

Nobody would have expected that this particular Halloween sketch would still be popular all these years later. As David (S.) Pumpkins, Tom Hanks sends a haunted amusement park ride on a detour full of surprises. This is partly due to the fact that Hanks embraces all of the ridiculous details of the skit. Unafraid to play up each moment, the actor dances along with his two skeletons before uttering a catchphrase that makes everything even better. This doesn't even count the hilarious wardrobe, which is the cherry on top of a memorable segment. It's no wonder that Hanks is beloved, especially when he takes big comedic swings like this.

“Kavanaugh Hearing” Cold Open

Matt Damon wastes no time channeling Brett Kavanaugh in this chaotic cold open. From his very first piece of dialogue, the engaging actor demonstrates that he's game for anything. Tapping into a wide array of visceral emotions, Damon yells and flounders in a skit that almost eerily parodies the real-life hearing. His ability to tap into a specific kind of insanity is all the more impressive for this sketch, whether he's talking about his high school days or weirdly fixating on his love of beer. Despite being known more for his dramatic roles, the movie star reveals that he's just as convincing in a comical role.

“Celebrity Jeopardy!: Robin Williams, Catherine Zeta-Jones & Sean Connery”

The recurring "Celebrity Jeopardy" sketches showcase every cast member's best celebrity impression. This includes Jimmy Fallon's sometimes forgotten interpretation of Robin Williams. It’s an oddly accurate impression that’s as animated as some of the real performer's efforts. He frequently rings in to do extended routines, rarely paying attention to the questions at hand which is wonderfully entertaining. His work in Final Jeopardy is also notable because of an unfortunate accident with the contestant's pen, which caps off several whirlwind minutes of funny voices and mannerisms. If you only know Fallon from "The Tonight Show," this stands as a reminder that he is also a gifted mimic.

“Kaitlyn Gets Her Ears Pierced”

Amy Poehler frequently reminded audiences that she was one of the most versatile players during her time at "SNL." Her Kaitlyn character is one perfect example of her ability to take over a scene. The young woman spends the bulk of her time hoping and praying that she'll get her ears pierced, talking a mile a minute and never slowing down. Poehler's ability to keep the momentum up is undeniably a credit to her natural performing talents. She barely takes a second to breathe or even stop moving in the entire segment. If that’s not ten-year-old energy, we don’t know what is. And that Dolly Parton bit? Credit where credit is due!

“Sean Spicer Press Conference”

Melissa McCarthy is a queen of physical comedy, but it's definitely surprising to see her appear as Sean Spicer in this sketch. However, she quickly silences any doubts as she takes control with forceful delivery and hysterically aggressive line-readings. McCarthy’s use of close to an entire pack of gum, as well as some other incredible props, only serves to better illustrate her caricature of the former press secretary. She even moves the podium around in a way that completely subverts expectations. At no point does this impression feel tired, making for one of the more exciting and unexpected triumphs for the show.

“James Brown’s Celebrity Hot Tub Party”

Eddie Murphy was considered a major force for “SNL” in the 80s, providing several indelible images such as his take on James Brown. He plays the soul singer in an absurd talk show involving a hot tub, mimicking Brown’s vocal style and dance moves as he makes a grand entrance. The bulk of the sketch involves the character trying to work himself up to enter the water, which just a hilarious bit and also involves a loving nod to the musician’s famous cape. Murphy keeps the energy high as he manages to be both funny and deliver an accurate portrayal of the vocalist.

“Surprise Party”

In one of her best roles during her tenure on "Saturday Night Live," Kristen Wiig embodies the unpredictable and wonderfully crazy Sue. Her character frequently finds herself struggling to keep a secret about an impending surprise party. While the other cast members are able to play along, Sue is bursting at the seams with excitement. The comedian shows that she's able to throw caution to the wind in this utterly ridiculous performance. Wiig also displays a healthy dose of physical comedy as she furiously eats and later breaks objects. The entire sketch gradually increases the tension with each passing minute and culminates in one over-the-top exit.

“More Cowbell”

Perhaps Will Ferrell's most famous sketch on “SNL” is this parody of a "Behind the Music" show, where he plays a cowbell performer in Blue Öyster Cult. The recording doesn't go as planned with the producer, played by Christopher Walken, too frequently giving them notes. While Walken is a major presence in this skit, Ferrell steals the spotlight with his tight shirt and wild performance style. His impassioned speech at the end is all the better because of his fierce intensity, along with his ability to crack up co-stars like Jimmy Fallon. And we could never forget about his ferocious cowbell playing!

“Matt Foley: Van Down By the River”

Of all of the characters in “SNL” history, Matt Foley might be the most widely-quoted of them all. The motivational speaker arrives to teach two kids a lesson, but ends up overdoing it in spectacular fashion. Cast member David Spade and host Christina Applegate struggle to keep it together as Chris Farley lights up the stage with physical gags. He even goes so far as to fall into a coffee table for comedic effect. It certainly ranks high among the performer’s best and most hilarious sketches, with the “Chippendales Audition” coming in at a close second. Nobody else could’ve pulled off the perfect degree of manic energy that Farley displays in this scene.