Anchorman recalls a simpler time when a man was not judged by the contents of his character but on the raw, unchecked ferocity of his mustache and other silly things that distinguished the 70s. Will Ferrell stars as the head anchor, but the film is very much an ensemble effort from his co-stars played by Paul Rudd, Steve Carrell, and David Koechner.
Some consider the film to be absolutely ridiculous, while others see it as being hilariously funny. The film is packed with famous phrases and quotes, and even if you haven’t seen the movie, you have probably heard them and just don’t associate them with the movie.
A Fish Called Wanda
This absolute gem of a comedy film was released in 1988 to rave reviews and massive commercial success. Written by Charles Crichton and comedy genius John Cleese, “A Fish Called Wanda” is the perfect heist comedy film with brilliant writing, hilarious scenes, romance, adventure, and a stunningly gorgeous Jamie Lee Curtis as the star female lead.
Playing the seductive con artist Wanda, Curtis teams up with Kevin Kline to con a wealthy barrister, played by John Cleese. However, she’s also trying to con Kline and their other gang partner – hell breaks loose when the plan starts to entangle, and it’s simply impossible not to laugh and enjoy every minute of it.
National Lampoon’s Animal House
This 1978 John Landis classic is a delight to watch, not just because of the film’s hilariously well-written script, but also thanks to the performances of John Belushi, Tim Matheson, Tom Hulce, and Stephen Furst. When Hulce and Furst arrive at college, they try to join a snobby fraternity but are turned down outright.
So they decide to try another less prestigious fraternity called the Delta Tau Chi House and are welcomed with open arms. The problem is that the college’s dean will stop at nothing to close down the Deltas, and they’re not letting that happen. The film is the original “college comedy movie” in what would become a long line of successors.
Superbad
A massive commercial hit that made Michael Cera and Jonah Hill’s careers, “Superbad” is one of those films that you can watch a million times and still cry with laughter every time as if you’d never seen it. Cera and Hill play two co-dependent high schoolers that decide to team up with a nerd from the class named Fogell (a.k.a. McLovin’), who is played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and get a fake ID to buy alcohol for a party.
Getting alcohol is absolutely essential for the boys if they want to impress their high school crushes (one of them played by Emma Stone). With Seth Rogen and Bill Hader as hilariously insane and corrupt cops, the film is a brilliant teen comedy that has its star-studded cast at its absolute best.
The Pink Panther
Featuring the clumsy antics of lumbering pseudo-French Detective Clouseau, "The Pink Panther" was the first and probably the best in the franchise of Pink Panther films. While being subtle and funny, Peter Seller's bumbling character is very effective at being silly. More than eight other versions of the Pink Panter were released over the years, all shining in a different way; however, the classic first takes them all.
To most, the character is associated with cartoons and children's animated cartoons, but the truth is, the original story, whether you relate to the storyline or not, is filled with great humor, sophisticated whiteness, and magic.
Tootsie
The concept of a guy dressing up as a woman to get a better job did not age well, but the good intentions still outweighed the bad. The fine script and performances of Bill Murray and Dustin Hoffman still shine through despite the movie's approach to feminism. The 80s style and script manage to charm audiences, so much so that it's become a classic in its own right.
Now, besides the remarkable acting by Hoffman and Lange, the sophisticated humor and whiteness stand the test of time, and if a 21st-century version were produced, nothing in the script would have to be altered.
Caddyshack
The premise follows a teen on his quest to raise money for college, so he works as a caddy for golfers at the snob-infested Bushwood Country Club. You'll encounter classic slapstick, whip-smart dialogue, and unforgettable characters. The film features many zany scenes that balance well with comedic timing from great actors like Bill Murray, Rodney Dangerfield, and Chevy Chase.
The movie shows us (among other things) what living with loads of money is all about and highlights the hilarious and sometimes awkward moments of that kind of life. The movie eventually made more than $60 million, so the characters were not the only ones with loads of bucks to their name.
This Is Spinal Tap
Rob Reiner's mockumentary highlights a heavy-metal band struggling to get back on the charts. With probably the most laugh-out-loud script in movie history, dim-witted characters' strong performances still remain endearing. While the pivotal music and profound lyrics set this movie apart, the script makes it as witty as it gets. Most of the lines were improvised. The script was there but only performed as a structure and baseline.
Everything else was the cast's pure imagination and talent. This made the final movie more authentic, everything looked more real and approachable. Adding on to that, it is full of laughter and gigs and deserves an honorable place on this list.
The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!
Baby boomers will probably remember this late 80s movie that superbly mocked crime TV shows from the 70s. As a bumbling investigator, Leslie Nielsen gives a great performance that will leave your ribs tickled and your cheeks sore. Even now, more than three decades later, it's still hysterically funny with harmless slapstick and clever puns.
The movie is packed with visuals and verbal punchlines; shame, though, as they are all outdated. We are not sure how well this will work watched by the new generation; however, back then, it was one of the funniest movies around.
Old School
When three adult men decide to start their own fraternity, it’s all achieved with chaotic enthusiasm thanks to a Frat Pack cast that includes Luke Wilson, Will Ferrel, and Vince Vaughn. The obvious standout is Will Ferrell, whose inner conflict between a middle-aged family man and party-obsessed Frank provides the film with a truly funny dynamic.
Todd Philips has since made more blockbuster movies, but "Old School" remains the benchmark for his comedic work. So, in the movie, the characters are supposed to be in their 20s; however, all main actors were well into their 30s when playing the roles. So, no need for plastic surgery. Just be funny, and it will bring on the youth.
The Big Lebowski
Jeff Bridges is simply perfect as the laid-back protagonist in this Coen brothers' comedy. His character is known as "The Dude," who is mistaken for a millionaire with the same name; mishaps ensue as he gets caught up in a kidnapping ring. The film is edgy and creative, and the ensemble cast did well to create memorable characters.
Many might attribute the film's success to its pointed dialogue, but its life lessons about friendship are what make it so much more than a comedy. The movie was released more than 25 years ago and is as influential as it was back in its early days. It reminds me of the great things in Hollywood when there is no fear of crossing the lines.
Clerks
Kevin Smith made this black and white film with only a little more than $28,000. Even though this motion picture is pretty raunchy, it's still highly relatable. The movie commenced Kevin Smith's signature of memorable films and is by far his best and most creative effort. It still has fans quoting, “I’m not even supposed to be here today.”
Initially, the movie was supposed to aim at youngsters who had just hit their twenties; however, it was more successful amongst adult viewers, which only made the movie more appreciated, successful, and eventually - making more money.
Office Space
In this satire about capitalism drudgery, Ron Livingston stars as a corporate drone in a computer software company, and Jennifer Anniston as an unhappy waitress. With a mix of funny one-liners and sharp dialogue, this movie is a hilarious knockdown of workplace culture.
This movie managed to hit the bullseye and easily earned its place on any list of the funniest movies ever made. The performance of each star is memorable, and the dialog is superb. The movie does an excellent job of turning American Corporate life into a comedy and still leaving the audience with something to think about.
Back to the Future
In this sci-fi movie from the 80s, Marty McFly is a small-town teen who travels back in time using an eccentric scientist's machine. It soon goes awry as Marty has to make his parents fall in love, or he'll cease to exist. While also funny, this movie is about a thrilling time-traveling adventure with an incredible cast that includes Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and Crispin Glover.
At first, the movie wasn't intended to be a comedy, it was supposed to be more of a science fiction story; however, the characters were so unique and comic, and eventually, what brought the movie so much success.
Wayne's World
While there have been a lot of films carved out of sketches from "Saturday Night Live," only a few have managed to outlive the premise that worked for late-night TV. "Wayne's World" is a rare example of how well that can be done. In this oddball comedy, there's a feeling that the creators were willing to try just about anything to get a laugh, but luckily their success rate is exceptionally high.
It's been fondly regarded because of its endearing characters. Wayne and Garth are like two twelve-year-olds. At first, their scenes of humor may be seen as immature and pathetic, but later on, their geniuses are revealed.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Few romantic comedies are as devastatingly outlandish and brutally honest as "Forgetting Sarah Marshall." While the movie has the standard plot of finding new love after a break-up, this one was inspired by Jason Segel's personal, romantic failures. "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" is about his past journey as he ignored good advice and went on a few wild adventures.
The film includes a decent cast with Paul Rudd, Kirsten Bell, and Russell Brand. The movie is a great entertainer. It provides loads of laughter, and the chemistry between the cast is on the verge of brilliance. It influences the romantic story with energy and spices it up.
Snatch
Thick accents abound in this crime-comedy that's filled with a star-studded cast. Yes, it's morbid and dark but also extremely entertaining. We certainly recommend this if you enjoy British comedy and especially if you like a bit of action. The movie features a dizzying swirl of snappy dialogue, interwoven narratives, and wildly-conceived characters, from gangsters to street-fighting gypsies.
Guy Ritchie's film proves to be a decidedly fun film for those wanting to laugh. The film has two storylines, which initially is supposed to make the storyline complicated; however, the sophisticated humor ( what else would you expect from a Brit?) paint all in pink.
Zoolander
While the fashion world isn’t exactly a difficult subject for satire, Ben Stiller’s tale of absurd pretension has such great quips and one-liners that it’s hard not to bellow with laughter. It's quite challenging to overstate just how influential "Zoolander" has been on comedy in the 21st century.
With stellar performances from Ben Stiller and Will Ferrell, the movie is jam-packed with funny gags. Some say that 'Zoolander" is Ben Stiller's funniest movie. It is surprisingly entertaining, makes fun of first-class celebrities, and reflects his real thoughts about fame. Being raucously silly and a waste of time.
Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story
When this parody of tedious music biopics was first released, it didn't do so well. Now, however, it's being appreciated for the comedic masterpiece it is. While being pretty unreasonable, "Walk Hard" lacks the unruly eccentricity of other parodies but makes up for it with well-executed shots that land right on target.
It cost almost $35 million, and unfortunately, it didn't do as well as expected. It managed to gross only $20 million, which barely covered to cost. When it was released, there was speculation that the story was based on the life of a real rock star; however, we are here to clear the burly clouds. Dewey Cox is 100% fiction.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
"My Big Fat Greek Wedding" is the rom-com we recommend you see at least once if not multiple times. Though it sometimes feels like a TV sitcom, the movie is sweet and delightfully eccentric, with a sharp script and deft leading performances. It's a comforting movie that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
But let's not forget the terrific performances of Michael Constantine and Nia Vardalos as the leading characters. Besides being funny, the movie teaches us so much. It shines a light on being faithful to tour heritage and culture that a large family is a total blessing, and true love is real.
Juno
Juno's profoundly quirky dialogue and distinctive script match bright performances in a coming-of-age tale with a 21st-century twist. We've seen a lot of movies in our time, but this one is really unique and pretty sweet. With witty quotes like "honest to blog" and "he's the cheese to my macaroni," the script featuring a pregnant teenager still manages to be realistic and much deserving of all the praise it's gotten so far.
Ellen Page's acting abilities are incredible, and she is definitely one of the reasons behind the success of the movie. The superb soundtrack is another thing worth mentioning, being so young, free, and catchy.
21 Jump Street
A thoughtfully moving satire of '80s sentimentality and teen-centric movie tropes, "21 Jump Street" presents typical mainstream comedy with a surprisingly satisfying twist. Even though you'd expect it to be gags galore, the script is actually really good! Now, we are not referring to the modern-day TV series. There was nothing funny about that. It was pure police TV.
This reboot of the '80s TV series with the same name only recycles the plot of young cops going undercover in high school to investigate crimes. It adds a lot more crude humor and self-referential jokes that parody the typical teen movie themes.
The Philadelphia Story
We’re headed back in time to 1940 when this romantic comedy directed by George Cukor hit the scene. Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn star as a formerly married couple with Katharine's character on the verge of her second marriage. Critics seem to agree that the storyline is one of the best of its time, with one calling it a “beautifully spun tale.”
The film won the Academy Award for Best Writing in an Adapted Screenplay and brought in $3.3 million – which was a lot of money in 1940. The Philadelphia Story is much more than just a comedy movie to many. It brought the reality of many onto the screen, and there is no wonder why many believe it is a masterpiece.
Major League
Major League was a movie with quite a unique concept. The cast made the colorful story become more than what it is, as they played the roles of minor leaguers, faded athletes, and fraudulent players. These characters are grouped to fulfill the roster needs of the infant Cleveland Indians franchise.
The recently widowed and seemingly unwilling new owner of the team wants to move them to Florida, and for that to happen, she has to make sure that the team will be atrocious in the field. With silly antics and the active practice of voodoo (yes, you read that right), the film delivers comedy at its finest. Lighthearted and funny, a perfect addition to your movie nights!
Trading Places
John Landis directs comedy legends Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd in this hilarious family comedy. The film follows two unscrupulous millionaire brothers who cook up a scheme for Christmas as part of a bet — to switch the fortunes of a pretentious investor and a clever street artist (Aykroyd and Murphy, respectively). The two parts, which were well written, were performed by two amazing comedians who brought to roles to perfection.
"Trading Places" is filled with sneaky Wall Street conspiracies, all the while bringing traditional holiday values to the screen. This classic 80's comedy reminds us of the importance of love, generosity, and friendship.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
You can't get much better than Steve Martin and John Candy in "Planes, Trains & Automobiles." The comedy features the two legends as strangers who are forced to become travel companions as they head home for the holidays. The John Hughs film takes these comedy greats together on a long, awkward, and hilarious road trip movie experience.
It is a total delight and simply a must-see. Although "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" is considered a comedy movie, the depth of the characters and the very meaningful moments in the script are what made the movie so successful and appreciated.
Scrooged
There have been countless adaptations of Charles Dickens's famous book, "A Christmas Carol," and Richard Donner's 1987 film, "Scrooged," is undoubtedly one of the best. In this 80's holiday classic, Bill Murray plays a greedy, arrogant, and very successful TV executive who has gradually pushed everybody in his life away. This was a more modern version of the original story, that the new generations found hard to relate to.
The movie gets increasingly funny as Murray is visited by a series of Christmas spirits that force him to take a look at his selfish lifestyle. Not to mention Carol Kane's hilarious performance as the Ghost of Christmas Present.
When Harry Met Sally
Harry and Sally are two friends grappling with the ultimate question: can men and women ever simply be platonic pals? The 1989 rom-com was written by Nora Ephron. It featured Meg Ryan as Sally and Billy Crystal as Harry. The classic film originated some concepts we talk about to this day, like "high-maintenance."
We're sure you've watched this 80s treasure, but if for some reason you haven't, what are you waiting for? As viewers, we constantly want the two to get together even though we know deep inside that there is no match and that they are too different. It took the couple almost 12 years to realize what we could see from the start.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
In the mid-1980s, if there was someone anyone wanted to be — it was Ferris Bueller. Ferris was the only teen who managed to ditch school in style and live to tell about it. "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" was a huge comedy classic that inspired kids to give themselves a break occasionally.
The script was written in four days, leaving us with a movie we can't get enough of. The movie was all about having fun, and there is nothing more teenagers want during their glamorous high school days. The movie was pure escapism, which created and stimulated long-lost memories of our wild teen days.
M*A*S*H
Though many people might know M*A*S*H as the sitcom it inspired, Robert Altman's movie still stands as an irreverent and hilarious masterpiece in its own right. Anchored by remarkable performances from Donald Sutherland and Elliott Gould and driven by the now-famous natural, constantly flowing dialogue, the film remains an intoxicating mix of high and low-brow comedy.
The cast is definitely one of the main reasons for the success of the movie. Both Sutherland and Gould don't have to do much to be applauded, and their natural and ridiculously funny ways are enough to make anyone crack up in laughter.
Bringing Up Baby
There's a case to be made that this classic screwball comedy has everything: from witty banter to a massive comedic set piece with a nerdy paleontologist way over his head. At their effervescent best, Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn are elevating the seamlessly assembled comedy with enduring appeal.
When the movie was first released, it performed poorly, didn't live up to expectations, and even managed to mark the director's reputation negatively. Later on, the film was appreciated, and viewers and movie critics understood and valued the social affairs it covers. It was the first of many things and, presumably, was born too early in time.
The Jerk
In this tale of a man, we see Steve Martin's genuine sweetness and crass side as he fundamentally misunderstands every step in his rags-to-riches-to-rags journey. "The Jerk" is adorably hilarious and showcases Steve Martin's performance as nothing short of his all-out talent for comedy.
The movie basically allowed Martin to express himself through his jokes and unique humor, and he even used many of his standup jokes in the script, most of which were improvised. His charm and perfect timing, along with everything else, are what made this movie such a huge success and definitely one to remember.
National Lampoon's Vacation
This comedy classic by the legendary late Harold Ramis stars Chevy Chase in one of his most iconic roles as Clark W. Griswold. Chase plays the ambitious father whose holiday plans don't pan out. You can bet your bottom dollar it's filled with road trip adventures, which is something all viewers like to get lost in.
The 1982 film was also a major hit, which resulted in four hilarious sequels. Some say National Lampoons' Vacation is one of John Hughes' most underrated scripts. Anything you can possibly imagine goes wrong in this story, and it is a great move for great family quality time.
Borat
In this infamous mockumentary, Sasha Baron Cohen stars as Borat Sagdiyev, a journalist from Kazakhstan who is tasked with traveling to America to document life there. It takes a lot to remain completely serious while winding up and even shocking gullible public members, but Sacha Baron Cohen is perfect for this role – as demonstrated by this cringe-inducing journey across America.
The movie became a huge hit worldwide and turned Borat into an international star the viewers couldn't get enough of. The movie followed the huge hit "The Ali G Show," which was launched in the UK in 2000 and first introduced Borat to the world.
Tower Heist
This heist movie, aptly named "Tower Heist," is set in the ever-exciting New York City. It stars two comedy kings, Ben Stiller, and Eddie Murphy, and features parades and turkeys! It's good old family fun. You'll also love their amazing co-stars, Gabourey Sidibe, Alan Alda, and Matthew Broderick.
The great Alan Alda plays a Ponzi scheme crook who gets placed under house arrest for stealing $2 billion. Of course, that's where Murphy and Stiller come in with a sneaky plan. Besides the fact that most people enjoy comedies that involve crime, the cast and the action in the movie made it so successful.
Zombieland
You just have to have a zombie movie on the list. This comedy/horror features Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harelson teaming up on a road trip to Ohio to find Columbus's (Eisenberg) family. Enjoy the wild ride, laughs, and a little gore in this wildly entertaining road trip film. The Cadillac Escalade is also a great touch.
One of the reasons for the success of this movie is, without a doubt, the cast. The chemistry between them came so naturally and effortlessly. It feels as if the two had known each other for years and just happened to be on the same screen simultaneously.
The Family Stone
Even if you're not a fan of the typical American rom-com, "The Family Stone" is one of those movies you'll never regret watching. Why? Because it's a witty comedy-drama with great performances by some of Hollywood's finest.
With a cast that includes Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Craig T. Nelson, this film paints a perfect picture of what family holidays are really like — a gathering of sometimes unlikable characters with whom we have a love/hate relationship. Expect witty dialogue, hilarious scenes, and a tear-jerking performance by Keaton, who plays the matriarch of the family.
Bad Santa
This isn't your typical warm and fuzzy Christmas movie, and that's exactly what makes it great. "Bad Santa" is a black comedy about two con men (played by Billy Bob Thornton and Tony Cox), that reunite once a year for a holiday scheme. The actors seem like the perfect cast for the film, as Thornton plays the heavy-drinking Willie Soke, a thief disguised as a mall Santa, and Cox plays his sneaky elf assistant.
This dark comedy takes an unexpected turn when Thornton starts to get close with an outsider kid and his mother (played by Lauren Graham), forming an oddball makeshift family. This is one Christmas film that has it all, and with the comedy genius of Bernie Mac and John Ritter, film director Terry Zwigoff is sure to keep you glued to the screen for the whole hour and a half.
Tropic Thunder
Tom Cruise veers way off course from his action-hero persona to play Wes Grossman, a balding movie executive. Cruise dove head-first into the part, even though it was merely a supporting role to Robert Downey Jr., Matthew McConaughey, and Ben Stiller in Stiller’s 2008 comedy.
Even though we expected this film to be terrible, the parody of famous war films is hilarious. The movie effortlessly found punch lines. With a cast, any producer would die for "Tropic Thunder," which became one of its era's funniest and most entertaining movies.
His Girl Friday
If you haven’t seen this 1940 romantic comedy, you must add it to your list for movie nights. "His Girl Friday" stars Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell and tells the story of a newspaper editor and reporter who get wrapped up in a murder case. The film made number 19 on the American Film Institute’s 100 Years and 100 Laughs list.
In 1993, the Library of Congress selected it for preservation for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” The movie's dialogue (considered one of the fastest ever shown in a movie) and script are unique elements, making this such a wonderful movie.
Young Frankenstein
"Young Frankenstein" is a cult classic and a film masterpiece. It’s burlesque enough to draw any audience but slips in subtle high-brow notions. Inspired by Mary Shelley’s novel about the monster, "Young Frankenstein" was written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder. Wilder plays the role of the mad scientist, a relative of Shelley’s Dr. Victor Frankenstein. Peter Boyle plays the monster.
The film is registered for preservation at the Library of Congress. In a nutshell, the movie is a parody of classic horror movies that were very popular back in the day. Saying that Mel Brooks manages to preserve his empathy and sympathy for Frankenstein and the Bride of Frankenstein.
The Room
Nobody will ever tell you the script is good. But even with the writer's complete and utter lack of narrative structure, common sense, and regard for how humans interact, the film manages to achieve a brilliance that continues to draw audiences to theaters. Many believed that it was a parody, but it was actually a completely serious film made by and starring the mysterious Tommy Wiseau.
The film has gained a cult following since its abysmal release and is now one of the most popular bad films of all time. Many theaters in the United States have an annual theatrical showing of the film, and it’s always sold out with roaring and laughing fans. The 2017 film "The Disaster Artist" chronicles the bizarre behind-the-scenes shenanigans of how the film was made.
The Simpsons Movie
It's no stretch to say that "The Simpsons" show has ruffled a few feathers in its 30+ year run. The animated show is a mix of satirical and toilet humor, always keeping audiences and censors on the edge of their seats. Filled with biting satire and an honest portrayal of an American family, the movie delivered many hearty laughs.
It was no surprise that the film adaptation was a massive success. Although both the television show and the movie make fun of cultures and common American life, it brings such clever and unique humor and manages to collect together a variety of audiences who all appreciate it.
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
Anchorman recalls a simpler time when a man was not judged by the contents of his character but on the raw, unchecked ferocity of his mustache and other silly things that distinguished the 70s. Will Ferrell stars as the head anchor, but the film is very much an ensemble effort from his co-stars played by Paul Rudd, Steve Carrell, and David Koechner.
Some consider the film to be absolutely ridiculous, while others see it as being hilariously funny. The film is packed with famous phrases and quotes, and even if you haven't seen the movie, you have probably heard them and just don't associate them with the movie.
The General
Buster Keaton stars in this 1926 silent comedy based on a true event known as the Great Locomotive Chase that occurred during the Civil War. Unfortunately, when it came out to theaters, audiences weren’t rushing to see it, which resulted in a less-than-stellar box office turnout.
However, as the years have gone by, critics have changed their thoughts about the film, and it’s now considered one of the best in movie history. It has made several of the American Film Institute’s lists from 1998 to 2007.
The Royal Tenenbaums
Typically stylish but also thoughtful and witty, as is customary with Wes Anderson's films, "The Royal Tenenbaums" features three adult burnouts as they return to visit their sick father in New York. The characters take on almost mythic qualities in the audience's minds in this world that is so creatively and carefully crafted by Anderson.
The movie has many memorable scenes. However, there is one notable. Royal walked in on his ex-wife while she was in an intimate position. The scene highlights the movie's themes of guilt, failure, and deliverance, all in an irresistibly charming style.
The 40-Year-Old Virgin
In this raunchy but realistically funny comedy for adult audiences, Steve Carell stars as an amiable single guy looking for love. While on his quest, Carell's character finds himself in incredibly unfortunate situations, like when his friends convince him to get his chest waxed. Carrell's performance was laugh-out-loud funny as the titular underdog, and even with all the explicit jokes, this movie is unexpectedly sweet and full of heart.
The hilarious and sometimes ridiculous movie cracked the formula and made a simple plot line sophisticated and genius. The storyline also asked some good questions and raised interesting ideas that made the story as good as it was.
Dumb and Dumber
Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels star in "Dumb and Dumber" as two goofy characters who accidentally become involved in a kidnapping scheme and a never-ending series of coincidences that they're too stupid to understand. This film is unapologetically tacky, but it's also the Farrelly brothers' first movie and probably the most beloved.
The budget of the movie was $17 million. After being released worldwide, it managed to grasp a skyrocketing $250 million and was the number-one movie at the box office at the time. Jim Carry alone took $7 million into his pocket.
Coming to America
This movie stands out as Eddie Murphy's first big-screen project and also as one of his best comedic works. In it, he embodies multiple roles that were only a few degrees removed from each other but were quite well executed. Supporting roles from James Earl Jones, John Amos, and Arsenio Hall only add to the stellar quality of this film.
So many things make this movie wonderful. It has a unique story, which was one of a kind at the time; its main and supporting characters gave extravaganza performances, and overall it was a movie you could watch over and over again, each time discovering something new and exciting.
Clueless
This charming film is based on Jane Austen's Emma, which follows teenage love and friendships. It's much more than just a teen-centric movie from the 90s, though — it's a film that can keep finding new fans for years to come. This movie still manages to hold a lot of cultural clout. With lead performances from Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd, this film has so much wit.
What makes the movie more than just a high school comedy is how it implements stereotypes into the script. In "Clueless," they are not there, just by the way. Their entertainment purpose is highlighted and made a significant part of the plot. They are exaggerated and exquisite.
It Happened One Night
This screwball comedy follows a recently married spoiled heiress who gets entangled with a newspaper reporter who happens to fall in love with her. The film was directed and co-produced by Frank Capra and was welcomed by stunning reviews upon its release.
"It Happened One Night" is one of just three films to ever win all five of the major Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. The only two other films to ever pull that off have been "The Silence of the Lambs" and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest."
Elf
Sometimes all that's needed for a movie to work is the right actor. And this is definitely the case with 2003's "Elf". Comedy genius Will Ferrell plays Buddy, an adult who's grown up in the North Pole and is somehow under the impression that he's an elf.
Ferrell decides to travel to New York to search for his birth father (played by James Caan) and gets a job in a department store as he tries to navigate the human world. The talented Zooey Deschanel plays Buddy's cynical co-worker as he gets himself into goofy, ridiculous situations. Ferrell's manic energy in this Christmas movie has since become the festive family staple without the post-sugar-rush headache.
Shaun of the Dead
This zombie movie parody was the first feature to come from co-writers Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg, and it was surprisingly moving! The quips and gags zoom at a mile a minute, but still, there's an effortless balance between laughs, genuine shocks, and touching poignancy. The fact that everything looks so seamless is nothing short of a miracle.
With its sophisticated sense of humor, chick authenticity completed with a load of crash zooms, and a specific approach to the zombie genre, it was well received when released by many directors like Quentin Tarantino and numerous actors, Jim Broadbent being amongst them.
City Lights
This pre-Code romantic comedy was made in 1931 when Charlie Chaplin was still producing his silent hits. The film is widely regarded as the star’s masterpiece, which follows The Little Tramp in his attempts to court a blind girl that he’s fallen for.
"Sight and Sound" magazine’s 1952 poll named it the second-best film of all time, and that was one of many times it’s been given that honor. American Film Institute has included it in seven of their “100 Years” lists and called it the single “Best Romantic Comedy” on their 2008 “10 Top 10.”
The Heartbreak Kid
In this masterpiece of uneasy apprehension, Charles Grodin stars as an aloof salesman who suddenly realizes his new bride is the absolute worst while on their honeymoon. Soon enough, he falls for another guest while his trustful spouse heals from a bad sunburn. The actors in "The Heartbreak Kid" make their shallow characters believable.
Now, don't get confused; this movie has two versions. One was released in 1972, and the second (featuring Ben Stiller) came out in 2007. We are, of course, referring to the earlier one. The later version is just as good; however, we have a thing for originals.
Booksmart
For years films and television shows have displayed women as being competitive with other women. The movie "Booksmart" manages to break this stereotype. Molly (Beanie Feldstein) is an ambitiously studious teen in the high school comedy picture. Her friend Amy discovers a sad fact: bookish abstinence wasn't necessary to get into Ivy League Universities.
Their popular classmates, who spent most of their time partying, also head to elite universities. So together, they decide to have at least one careless night of fun and partying before graduation. Their plans immediately go wrong as they find themselves in increasingly ludicrous situations.
Best in Show
It's weird, it's wonderful, and it's palpably tense in this mockumentary. The appealing premise is about a dog show and its hilariously quirky dog trainers. With Christopher Guest's gift for improv comedy and eccentric characters played by the likes of Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, and Jennifer Coolidge, this movie is definitely something you should watch.
What makes this movie so interesting is the fact that a large portion of the movie's dialogue was never written. It was improvised, which gave the whole thing an authentic and unique touch. Another fun fact; the storyline is based on a real dog show that takes place every year in New York.
The Blues Brothers
Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi star in this cult classic as two brothers on a mission from God himself. Jake Blues (Belushi) and his brother Elwood (Aykroyd) decide to do some good and raise money for the Catholic home they grew up in. This mission results in a major road trip all through Illinois in an effort to get the band back in action.
There's no way you can resist these SNL legends in this classic from our favorite decade. The movie was no blockbuster at the time, but more than four decades later, it has since become a cult favorite, mainly because of its incredible soundtrack.
Lost in America
"Lost in America" stands above Albert Brooks' other movies as perhaps his greatest comedy. This satire features his consistent jabs about the American fantasy of leaving it all behind. The story revolves around a couple who set out to find themselves but eventually realize they're not interested in growth.
It's the kind of comedy that sticks with you for weeks after seeing it. Although the movie ends with an unfortunate return to the status quo, the wisdom collected on this journey is priceless. The movie is not only a great comedy but also an important lesson in life.
Pee-Wee's Big Adventure
One of the most beloved comedies to come out of the 80s, "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" loosely satirizes "Bicycle Thieves," the Vittorio De Sica classic. Paul Reuben's zany antics as Pee-wee Herman are priceless. He takes on a big adventure as he tries to track down his stolen bicycle.
Tim Burton’s first feature film brings Paul Reubens' famous character to the big screen, as he captures the essence of childhood joy one giggle at a time. So, fasten your seatbelts, grab your popcorn, and join Pee-wee on a wild and wondrous adventure that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
In Bruges
Featuring witty and fresh dialogue from two well-known Irish actors, Colin Farrell, and Brendan Gleeson, "In Bruges" is an effective mix of dark comedy and crime thriller elements. Two hitmen find themselves in the medieval city of Bruges in Belgium, providing a beautiful but odd place to set an entire movie. However, it does confirm the movie's cult-like status as an underrated gem of modern cinema.
The contrasting beauty of the city against the dark and twisted plot creates a captivating juxtaposition that draws viewers in, and Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson's brilliant performances elevate the film to new heights, adding layers of depth to their characters and ensuring you're invested in every moment.
Slap Shot
Paul Newman shines in "Slap Shot" as the least-heroic, worst-dressed role of his career as he plays a has-been hockey player who turned into the coach of a lower-league team. The movie was censored at the time of its release for its relentlessly coarse language, but now the film has gathered a considerable cult following.
It is a landmark for sports comedy and a telling portrait of threatened masculinity in a declining America. Newman's portrayal of a coach navigating endangered manliness in a declining America is both poignant and comedic, adding depth to the film's stellar performance.
Modern Times
Charlie Chaplin was the comic relief that the world needed during the Great Depression and some of the most troubling times society had seen. He took serious situations and satirized them, providing laughs when there weren’t very many reasons to smile. In 1989, the Library of Congress considered the film “culturally significant,” and it was preserved in the National Film Registry.
The film has also made several of AFI’s “100 Movies” lists. Chaplin's work became a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of laughter during troubling times. His timeless legacy continues to inspire comedians and filmmakers, proving that humor can bridge gaps and brighten even the darkest days.
The Mask
Long before the Joker, there was Jim Carrey's version – he plays a high-intensity trickster in this comedy with a Looney Tunes vibe. "The Mask" offers the perfect showcase for Carrey’s reckless and over-the-top jokes. While the effects have lost their luster, Jim Carrey manages a profoundly silly range of gags and impressions that still packs some serious comic voltage.
Carrey's comedic brilliance remains timeless, making "The Mask" an absolute must-watch for anyone needing a good laugh! Even to this day, and no matter how many movies Carry has taken part in, he will forever be mostly associated with "The Mask" and everything this movie brings with it.
Toy Story
From Pixar's beginnings as a testing platform for new computer animation techniques, the animation studio has always preferred technical innovation over simpler methods. "Toy Story" is sweetly charming but shouldn't be written off as fluff. With an odd couple in the form of Woody and Buzz Lightyear, the movie is a stellar comedy that harmonizes well with touching childhood themes.
It provides the perfect combination of action and adventure that packs a genuine heart and a barrel of laughs. Make no mistake, "Toy Story" isn't just a feel-good tale. It's an action-packed adventure that takes you on a wild ride, soaring through imaginative worlds and daring escapades.
Napoleon Dynamite
It’s kind of hard to describe this movie to those who haven’t seen it but trust us when we say the narrative pacing and subtle humor make it equally unique and delightful. It just gets weirder with a cast of social misfits, starring Napoleon (Jon Heder) and his friend Pedro, who couldn't care less about fitting in at high school.
At the heart of this cinematic gem are the narrative pacing and subtle humor that set it apart from the crowd. You'll find yourself drawn into a world where the unexpected becomes the norm, and the laughter flows effortlessly. It's a movie that dares to be different, and boy, does it succeed in the most fantastic way!
Ghostbusters
Some of you may only be familiar with the 2016 version of "Ghostbusters," but older folks know that the original 1984 movie was a pure joy to watch. It was a big hit when it came out as it was appealing to both older and younger audiences. Starring Sigourney Weaver, Bill Murray, and Dan Aykroyd, the film tells how a group of professors turned into ghost removers. While this might sound a little bit eerie, it is hilarious!
The three brilliant minds, along with their proton packs and a catchy theme song, took on the task of turning ghostbusting into a wild and hilarious adventure. The witty banter between the characters, Bill Murray's deadpan humor, and Dan Aykroyd's infectious enthusiasm create a perfect cocktail of hilarity that's impossible to resist.
Bridesmaids
With a brilliant cast of characters and an incredibly silly-but-smart script, "Bridesmaids" surpasses all expectations as a female-driven comedy. This movie certainly knocks the laughs right out of the park with a healthy portion of black humor that's perfectly balanced with a serving of juvenile gags.
From the moment the movie starts, you know you're in for a hilarious ride, and boy, does it deliver! Melissa McCarthy's portrayal of the outrageous and unfiltered Megan steals the show, leaving the audience in stitches with her bold antics and side-splitting one-liners. The movie manages to tackle serious topics while maintaining a light-hearted and entertaining tone, making it a true gem in the realm of female-led comedies.
Fun With Dick and Jane
Quite true to its name, this film is a whole lot of fun with Jim Carrey and Téa Leoni, who resort to a life of crime after losing all their money. Mostly, they're just really bad at pulling off heists but manage to steal plenty of laughs. Carrey showcases his talent as a multi-dimensional character who can be heartfelt and cartoonish.
Fun with Dick and Jane" lives up to its promise of endless amusement, and despite the character's lack of criminal finesse, their escapades are a riotous delight that will leave you in stitches.
Airplane!
Though unabashedly silly and immature, "Airplane!" is a silly spoof of a disaster movie for those who love wordplay. This comedy first came out in 1980, but its quotable one-liners and slapstick stunts endure to this day. "Airplane!" received universal acclaim from critics and is widely regarded as one of the best films of 1980.
Since its release, its reputation has grown substantially. It was ranked 6th on Bravo's 100 Funniest Movies. As a brilliant spoof of disaster movies, the film serves up a delicious dose of wordplay that tickles the funny bones of comedy enthusiasts everywhere.
Some Like It Hot
This classic romantic comedy stars the legendary Marilyn Monroe and is widely regarded as one of the best films of all time. It tells the story of two musicians who must dress in drag to hide from the mafia after they wind up accidentally witnessing a crime.
"Some Like It Hot" was a huge success with critics and at the box office. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Actor and Best Director. In 2000, the American Film Institute named it number one on their list of 100 Years of 100 Laughs.
Groundhog Day
It's not often that we come across a movie that bears the name of a well-known holiday and literally redefines it. It's almost been a few decades since its release, and the jokes still land just as well now as they did then. "Groundhog Day" is an enduring masterpiece that effortlessly weaves humor and introspection into its compelling narrative.
Bill Murray's impeccable comedic timing and endearing performance make the film an absolute joy to watch, no matter the era. But what makes "Groundhog Day" so memorable after all this time? Maybe it remains relevant as life is about smiling through the painfully boring days when the world around you feels like a blur.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
With wit, satire, and infectious humor, this film is a comedic masterpiece that must be rewatched repeatedly. The slapstick British comedy troupe made this parody of the Arthurian legend and offered a characteristically irreverent take on it in this film that has since gone on to become a cult classic.
It's rare for a comedy to hold up this well, but it stood the test of time. The timeless one-liners like "It's just a flesh wound" make this a movie worth watching repeatedly. The cleverly crafted spoof has proven its enduring charm, standing the test of time and remaining as funny as ever.
Dr. Strangelove
There are dark comedies, and then there's "Dr. Strangelove." This 1964 film, which is also known by its full title: "Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb," is directed by Stanley Kubrick and stars George C. Scott and Peter Sellers. Sellers, who plays three separate roles throughout the production, was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his work in the film.
The movie was nominated for four Oscars in total, along with six BAFTAs. Of the six, "Dr. Strangelove" took home four wins, including Best Film from Any Source and Best British Film.
9 to 5
This workplace comedy that blends office politics and sisterhood was so good that it became an instant classic. Starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin, the charming movie features the best dynamic as they work together in more ways than one. You might remember the theme song sung by Dolly Parton, which is still great!
9 to 5" is a timeless gem that continues to captivate audiences with its delightful humor and heartwarming camaraderie among the leading ladies. Dolly Parton's on-screen charisma and musical talents add an extra layer of magic, leaving us humming the catchy theme song even today.
Blazing Saddles
"Blazing Saddles" set the world on fire when it first hit theaters in 1974, and it has since become a multi-generational classic. It took the audience by storm, shining a satirical light on social issues like no other film before it. This film has become one of Mel Brooks' crowning achievements, this classic Western satire is gleefully vulgar and blisteringly funny.
While the jokes haven't aged well and, at times can be cringe-inducing, it remains a riot of bad taste and one of the gutsiest comedies of our time. Blazing Saddles" defies the norms of the Western genre, injecting it with unparalleled wit and a daring approach to humor, making it a groundbreaking and memorable cinematic experience.
Mean Girls
This hit teen comedy found humor in the high school experience, with laugh-out-loud moments and a brilliant, zinger-filled script that Tina Fey pens. The impressive ensemble cast provides genuine insight when the new girl, Cady (Lindsay Lohan), faces the school's hierarchy, where being popular means everything. Mean Girls" is a witty and entertaining movie that perfectly captures the complexities of teenage life.
As Cady navigates the ups and downs of high school, you'll find yourself laughing and cringing at the hilariously accurate portrayal of cliques and social dynamics. Tina Fey's sharp writing and Lindsay Lohan's charming performance make this film a must-watch for anyone who has experienced the wild ride of adolescence.
Duck Soup
Not everyone is familiar with the real definition of the term Duck Soup, and as it turns out, there is more to this than one funny movie. "Duck Soup" is a film that didn’t do so hot at the box office but gained more recognition and appreciation as time went on.
The Marx Brothers' comedy follows some silly spies trying to stage a revolution in the small nation of Freedonia. It has a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 50 reviews, and holds a 7.8/10 on IMDb. Roger Ebert gives it a 4/4, including in his review that he believes it to be the best of the Marx Brothers' films.
School of Rock
In 2013, "School of Rock" was the highest-grossing music-themed comedy, and it held on to this title until 2015. It is one of the best entries in Jack Black's ongoing attempt to dominate the comedy genre in this underdog story. At his most endearing, Jack Black's character is an overly enthusiastic musician who desperately needs work, so he poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious private school.
What starts out as a sneaky plan to earn some extra cash soon turns into something completely different. Black's character ends up coaching a class of misfits that go on to compete in a Battle of the Bands.
Mrs. Doubtfire
Mrs. Doubtfire might seem excessively sentimental and even silly as we're writing this. Along with Sally Field and Pierce Brosnan, Robin Williams shines brightly as a dad who tries to stay in his kids’ lives by hatching an elaborate plan. He dresses up as an older woman so he can get hired to be their nanny.
What follows is a lot of meddling from Robin Williams as he can't help but take many risks. Fun facts: many of William's lines in the movie were improvised, it took almost four hours to do the makeup, and his paycheck for the role was an astonishing 20 million big ones.
Meet the Parents
Everything that can possibly go wrong for groom-to-be Ben Stiller's character, Greg Focker, does. Despite the occasional sitcom-like execution, "Meet the Parents" is a laughable look at familial relationships that works primarily because the chemistry between its two leads (Rober De Niro and Ben Stiller) is so compelling.
De Niro has never been funnier as his soon-to-be son-in-law tries his best to impress. With De Niro's character being an ex-special agent, he pulls at all stops to ensure the man marrying his daughter is worthy. And when you get to know De Niro in this movie, you realize that no matter what, no one will ever be worthy.
The Birdcage
The 90s gave us some of the best comedy films of all time, and “The Birdcage” has to be in the top five. A hysterically funny comedy starring Nathan Lane and Robin Williams; the two actors play a gay club owner and his drag queen partner who run an LGBT nightclub in Florida.
Trouble ensues when their son meets a girl from an extremely conservative family, with Gene Hackman and Dianne Wiest as parents, and he asks his gay parents to pretend they’re straight for one night while they meet the potential in-laws. The performance by every cast member is downright tear-worthy and impossible not to laugh at, including a marvelous performance by Hank Azaria as a gay butler from El Salvador who can’t wear shoes because they make him trip.
Monty Python’s Life of Brian
The second installment of Monty Python’s brilliantly hilarious film series, “Life of Brian,” is a true comedic masterpiece. Making fun of everything from the Bible to religion, and even the Latin language, John Cleese, Graham Chapman, and Michael Palin lead this film to success.
Released in 1979, many consider “Life of Brian” to be Terry Jones’s best film in the Monty Python trilogy, and considering the reaction of film critics and audiences, they’d be right. After all, what’s funnier than watching these legendary British actors play characters from the Bible while clearly having a hard time not laughing themselves and sticking to the script?
Play It Again, Sam
In an adaptation of a beloved 1969 Broadway play written by Woody Allen, director Herbert Ross translates the brilliant screenplay to the silver screen and hits a cinematic home run. Starring Woody Allen as a neurotic, depressive movie critic who gets dumped by his wife, the movie follows his failed attempts to flirt with women, egged on by his married friends Dick and Linda (played by Tony Roberts and Diane Keaton).
Disaster ensues when Allen falls in love with Linda. The hilarious 1972 film features Woody Allen at his neurotic best, and his onscreen chemistry with Keaton is undeniable. Definitely, a must-watch if you’re a fan of Allen humor.
Annie Hall
Chances are you’ve probably already seen this comedy classic, but just in case you’ve lived under a rock for the past five decades, “Annie Hall” should be next on your list. Lauded as one of Woody Allen’s best films, it follows the story of a nutty divorced comedian named Alvy Singer and his reminiscing over his ex-partner Annie Hall.
Hall, a beautiful singer with big ambitions, is played by a young Diane Keaton and represents yet one more thing in Alvy’s life that went wrong. Like his previous relationships, this one ended suddenly, too, making our main character a hopeless pessimist. But no one plays a pessimist more hilariously than Woody Allen.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
This is an example of a movie that’s perfectly titled since it seems like the only appropriate definition for the lead characters’ personalities. A remake of the 1964 comedy film “Bedtime Story,” starred by Marlon Brando, 1988’s “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” stars Michael Caine and Steve Martin as two lying conmen that trick rich women in the French Riviera and steal their money.
But things go awry when Martin and Caine meet and realize they can’t possibly be working in the same area, so they place a bet to decide who leaves. They both try to con a wealthy heiress, and the adventures that ensue are absolutely hilarious. Directed by Frank Oz, once a master puppeteer and colleague of “The Muppets” Jim Henson, this film is definitely worth a watch.
Three Amigos!
It’s hard to go wrong when you have a comedy directed by John Landis, starring Chevy Chase, Steve Martin, and Martin Short as three washed-out silent-era film stars. They travel to a remote Mexican village in the hopes of reprising their once-famous roles as “The Three Amigos” but end up leading a revolt when they realize the village is being taken over by bandits.
The plot is hilarious, with the three iconic comedy actors doing what they do best while battling a warlord named El Guapo. That, combined with the ridiculous accents and Randy Newman’s cameo as a bush that sings, makes this movie worth watching more than once.
A Night at the Opera
No movie starring the Marx brothers can be anything but hysterically funny, and “A Night at the Opera” is one of their best. Released in 1935, the film follows two opera singers who have two insane friends and a cheeky business manager who help them get out of a career slump and climb the success ladder by embarrassing their snobby enemies.
Chico, Harpo, and Groucho use their signature slapstick and comic riffs to wow audiences and critics alike. If you’re a fan of comedy, and especially the black-and-white cinema of the 30s, this is definitely one you shouldn’t miss.
Rushmore
Two years after his debut film “Bottle Rocket,” which became a cult classic but was a financial flop, director Wes Anderson directed “Rushmore.” The 1998 film was far more successful than his first and follows the story of Max (played by Jason Schwartzman) who is an odd, kind-hearted student who is great at everything but school.
He ends up falling for a teacher, only to have his heart broken when he finds out his mentor (Bill Murray) is in love with her too. With a cast that also includes Owen and Luke Wilson, and Olivia Williams, Wes Anderson weaves a genius comedy that is made ever-so great by his signature color patterns and eye for aesthetics.
The Producers
Of course, a film by comedy master Mel Brooks had to be on this list, especially when it comes to one of his masterpieces – “The Producers.” Starring acting legends Gene Wilder and Zero Mostel (who played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof”), this brilliant film follows a scamming stage producer (Mostel) and his quirky accountant (Wilder).
The twist? Mostel hatches a plan to get wealthy by creating the biggest failure of his career as a producer. The 1967 black comedy wasn’t exactly a financial success, but it conquered the hearts and laughter of both critics and audiences and set Mel Brooks on a wildly successful career as a director.
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
The “Austin Powers” film series became some of the most popular comedy films of the 90s, with the one-and-only Mike Myers as British spy Austin Powers, who is cryogenically frozen so he can travel back in time. The cheeky, ridiculous humor and the star-studded cast made the film an instant cult classic.
The first installment of the series, “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery,” released in 1997, was a hit amongst audiences. The fact that the leading woman was a beautiful and young Elizabeth Hurley also made the film a commercial success. Playing Austin Powers and the infamous Dr. Evil, Myers’ career was launched by this fan-favorite character.
The King of Comedy
This gem from 1982, directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, features Robert DeNiro as Rupert Pupkin, an out-of-his-mind wannabe celebrity that hosts an imaginary talk show in his mother’s basement. Even though it’s classified as a drama because it does have its incredibly sad moments, there are plenty of scenes that will make you bowl over with laughter.
Especially after DeNiro’s character meets actual talk show host Jerry Langford, played by Jerry Lewis, and gets a newfound false hope that it might be his big career break. But obviously, Lewis isn’t interested in the least.“The King of Comedy” is a perfect blend of drama, crime, thrill, and comedy, starred by A-list actors, including Martin Scorsese himself.
Raising Arizona
Considered by many to be one of the Coen brothers' best films, 1987’s "Raising Arizona” is definitely high up on the list of classic must-watch movies. It stars a young Nicolas Cage, who plays a convict who falls in love with a cop, played by Holly Hunter.
The couple wants to have kids but realizes they can’t, so ultimately, they decide to steal a baby from a rich family with quintuplets. John Goodman, Frances McDormand, Randall Craig Cobb, and Sam McMurray also appear in this hilarious yet deep film with a golden script and laugh-out-loud plot twists that make it one of a kind.
The Odd Couple
Directed by Gene Saks, this 1968 comedy classic is truly a treasure for any lover of comedy or films in general. Starring real-life buddies Jack Lemon and Walter Matthau, these two end up sharing an apartment after having marriage problems with their respective wives. Matthau is a rude, messy person, while Lemon is an OCD clean freak, and their chemistry onscreen is to die for.
For nearly two hours, you’ll tear up with laughter just seeing what these two get up to while trying to make things work in their semi-bachelor apartment. The film is a nice preamble to their hit “Grumpy Old Men” film series from the early 90s.
The Man With Two Brains
Since the early 80s, Steve Martin established himself as an iconic comedy actor with a career that has continued to climb the success ladder at full speed. One of these early movies that made the actor’s career was “The Man With Two Brains”, released in 1983.
The film follows Michael (played by Steve Martin), a brain surgeon who has recently lost his wife and decides to remarry a gold-digger named Dolores (played by Kathleen Turner). But chaos ensues when Martin falls in love with a bottled brain he finds in Vienna. You can only imagine what craziness ensues with a plot like this one and Steve Martin playing the lead role.
Midnight Run
One of the best things to come out of the 80s was the comedy thriller “Midnight Run,” starring acting legends Robert DeNiro and Charles Grodin. The film follows bounty hunter Jack Walsh (played by DeNiro), who has to track down an ex-mob member (played by Grodin) and bring him back into custody for a very large sum of money.
DeNiro has to put up with Grodin’s unbearably whiny and crazy character while he is transporting him back to California all the way from New York, but that's not all of it. He also has to be on the lookout for a lunatic mob boss and the FBI, who are also after Grodin.
The Cable Guy
Another masterful performance by comedy genius Jim Carey, “The Cable Guy,” will make you laugh and put you on edge in almost equal amounts. Carrey plays an absolutely insane cable guy who manages to weasel his way into a customer’s life and slowly destroy it. The customer, played by Matthew Broderick, is happy to have the cable guy as a friend, at first, but he slowly starts to suspect something is seriously wrong.
Directed by Ben Stiller and produced by Judd Apatow, 1996’s “The Cable Guy” features Leslie Mann, Jack Black, Carrey, and Broderick in hilariously funny and unsettling, performances that will make you bowl over with laughter and cringe at the same time.
Swingers
Actor and writer Jon Favreau tried his hand at a screenplay based on his real-life friendship with fellow actor Vince Vaughn, and he succeeded in all respects. “Swingers” features both actors playing themselves and how their very different personalities somehow manage to create a perfect balance.
The film was made with a budget of $200,000, and it made over $4 million at the box office. More importantly, it launched the careers of Ron Livingston, Heather Graham, Favreau, Vaughn, and even the director, Doug Liman. It’s a light, highly enjoyable comedy with a great script and interesting conversations about life that we all have at one point or another.
Ace Ventura, Pet Detective
“Alrighty, then!” became the catchphrase of the 90s after the hit comedy film “Ace Ventura, Pet Detective” came out in 1994. A very young Jim Carrey made audiences cry with laughter for a full hour and a half alongside co-stars Courteney Cox and Sean Young.
It’s also the movie that made famous comedy director Tom Shadyac’s career, being the first in a string of very successful 90s and 2000s films like “Liar, Liar,” “The Nutty Professor,” “Bruce Almighty,” “Patch Adams,” and more. Few 90s comedies compare to the insane antics that Carrey pulls off as Ace Ventura, a crazy animal lover with the attention span of a 3-year-old.
There’s Something About Mary
A gem by the Farrelly brothers, “There’s Something About Mary,” was a massive commercial success when it came out in 1998. The hilarious romantic comedy made over $360 million at the box office and became a cult comedy classic of the decade.
With top-notch performances by Ben Stiller, Chris Elliott, Matt Dillon, and Cameron Diaz, the film follows the beautiful Mary (played by Diaz) and the entourage of men that are hopelessly in love with her and try to get her attention with crazy hilarious antics. The chemistry of the actors is undeniable, and certain scenes are still referenced to this day.
Kingpin
This 1996 gem of a film directed by Peter and Bobby Farrelly follows the story of an Amish bowling virtuoso and his begrudging, narrow-minded teacher as they travel across the United States for bowling championships. The Amish bowler is played by comedy genius Randy Quaid and his mentor by none other than Woody Harrelson, who is haunted by his disgustingly inappropriate landlady, played by another comedy master – Lin Shaye.
Featuring other big-screen legends like Bill Murray, Chris Elliott, and Vanessa Angel, the film was an unfairly overlooked comedy masterpiece of the 90s. Coming out at a time when top-notch comedy films seemed to be coming out like hotcakes, “Kingpin” didn’t get as much recognition as its contemporaries, such as “Jerry Maguire” or “The Nutty Professor”.
Hot Fuzz
Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are two of the best actors to come out of England, and their chemistry, along with their director friend Edgar Wright, has almost become a genre of its own. These three comedy masters came together in 2007 to make “Hot Fuzz,” one of the funniest buddy cop parodies ever to exist.
Pegg plays a way-too-honest cop who is transferred to the countryside after his bosses deem him “too sincere and correct.” What ensues in the little town he’s placed in includes a grocery shootout, a missing swan, and hilarious performances by other British screen legends like Timothy Dalton, Bill Nighy, Olivia Coleman, Jim Broadbent, Paddy Considine, and Martin Freeman.
The Trip
Famous food critic and actor Steve Coogan and his actor buddy Rob Brydon make “The Trip” a must-watch when it comes to comedy greats. These two hilarious personalities embark on a ‘food tasting’ road trip filled with scrumptious meals, beautiful English countryside, and hilarious conversations about their lives and careers. And, of course, we mustn’t forget the fantastic ABBA renditions and celebrity impressions that will have you rolling on the floor with laughter.
Directed by acclaimed British director Michael Winterbottom, the 2010 film features some of this century’s best comedic actors. It's the best portrayal of two people who start to spend way too much time together on the road and start to get on each other’s nerves. If you’re in the mood for a good laugh, this one should definitely be on your list.