Big Stan

Big Stan follows a timid con artist who panics after learning he'll spend time behind bars for fraud. Instead of resigning himself to the system, he seeks help from a mysterious martial arts teacher, and trains to become a formidable fighter. The film focuses on his physical and social makeover as he prepares to survive prison life, confronts aggressive inmates, and tries to protect himself while keeping his conscience intact. Along the way he forms unlikely bonds with other prisoners and with the stern mentor who pushes him beyond his comfort zone. Humor comes from clashing personalities, awkward romance, and over-the-top training sequences, while the story keeps a light tone without revealing how the central conflict resolves. It moves quickly.

Released in 2007, Big Stan was directed by Rob Schneider and developed from a script by Josh Lieb. Schneider also stars, supported by David Carradine, Sally Kirkland, Jennifer Morrison, and Scott Wilson, giving the film a familiar comic leading presence.

The movie drew mixed crowds during its theatrical run and did not become a mainstream hit, though it recouped some of its costs through home video and rental markets. Its commercial footprint remained modest compared with bigger studio comedies overall.

While not widely quoted in mainstream culture, Big Stan solidified certain catchphrases and visual gags among Rob Schneider's fan base, especially the exaggerated training montages and absurd prison humor. The film still turns up in conversations about oddball comedies from the 2000s and among viewers who enjoy genre mashups today.

Critics gave Big Stan mixed reviews, reflected in its 6.59/10 average from 982 votes; some praised Schneider's physical comedy while others criticized tonal unevenness. The film touches on themes of transformation, masculinity, self-defense, and unlikely mentorship, keeping a comedic approach to serious settings. Audience reactions vary widely among viewers today.