Lowell Ganz, often regarded as one of the standout figures in comedy screenwriting, carved out an impressive legacy alongside his longtime collaborator Babaloo Mandel. Together, Lowell Ganz and Mandel became a powerhouse duo in Hollywood, crafting some of the most memorable and successful comedies of the 1980s and 1990s. Before making their mark in film, Lowell Ganz got his start in television, contributing to iconic series such as “The Odd Couple” (ABC, 1970–75), “Happy Days” (ABC, 1974–1984), and its spin-off “Laverne and Shirley” (ABC, 1976–1983). It was during this time that he joined forces with Babaloo Mandel, setting the stage for a remarkable transition into feature films.
Their big-screen breakthrough came through a fruitful creative alliance with producer Brian Grazer and director Ron Howard, beginning with the cult favorite “Night Shift” in 1982. From there, Lowell Ganz and Mandel hit their stride, writing major hits like the magical romantic comedy “Splash” (1984) and the heartfelt family drama “Parenthood” (1989). But perhaps their greatest achievements—both critically acclaimed and commercially successful—were “City Slickers” (1991), a witty and touching tale about midlife crises and cowboy dreams, followed by “A League of Their Own” (1992), a charming and inspiring comedy rooted in a forgotten chapter of baseball history.
After a quieter period during which Lowell Ganz and Mandel contributed uncredited rewrites to several high-profile projects, they made a strong comeback with two 2005 releases: the animated adventure “Robots” and the endearing sports rom-com “Fever Pitch.” These films reminded audiences that the signature humor and emotional depth that defined Lowell Ganz’s best work were still very much alive. Through decades of evolving tastes and trends, Lowell Ganz remained a consistent voice in American comedy, proving time and again why his name continues to be synonymous with smart, character-driven laughs.
When it comes to Lowell Ganz’s career in film, one standout project really shines through — Night Shift (1982) is widely regarded as Lowell Ganz’s highest rated movie. It’s clear that this early ‘80s classic resonated with both audiences and critics alike, showcasing Lowell Ganz’s talent for sharp writing and engaging storytelling. On the other end of the spectrum, though, there’s a bit of a dip in reception. City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly’s Gold (1994) tends to be viewed as Lowell Ganz’s lowest rated film, receiving more mixed or lukewarm responses over time. While not without its moments, it just didn’t quite capture the same magic as some of his earlier work. Overall, looking at Lowell Ganz’s filmography, it’s interesting to see how certain projects like Night Shift have endured, while others, such as the sequel, haven’t held up quite as well in public opinion. Still, Lowell Ganz’s contributions remain a notable part of cinematic history.