Laughter serves as an escape from everyday life, and comedies offer a variety of styles that can uplift spirits. This article presents a curated list of 13 top comedies, ranging from iconic buddy films like “The Hangover” and “Bad Boys” to timeless classics like “Back to the Future” and “Forrest Gump.” It also highlights family-friendly options such as “Inside Out,” ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy on their next movie night.
There’s nothing quite like laughing until your sides ache or tears stream down your face. Comedies have a magical way of whisking us away from the mundane realities of life, immersing us in laughter. A great comedy can encompass a range of styles, from silly slapstick to clever humor, or witty banter among friends.
A well-crafted comedy can elevate your mood in just a few hours, proving that laughter is, indeed, the best medicine. The type of comedy that cracks you up is often subjective; with the explosion of streaming options available, navigating the sea of entertaining comedies can feel overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 13 finest comedies, showcasing timeless classics, fresh hits, and family-friendly fun.
Hilarious Buddy Movies
In many comedies, it’s the characters that bring the laughter to life. Buddy movies epitomize this, featuring two or more close friends embarking on comedic adventures that showcase their unique personalities.
The Hangover (2009)
Watch ‘The Hangover’ on Netflix ❯
A quintessential buddy movie, ‘The Hangover’ sets the stage for unforgettable antics. Just before Doug’s wedding, he and his three best friends head to Las Vegas for a night of revelry. The following morning, they awaken with no recollection of the previous night and discover that the groom is missing. The trio embarks on a hilarious quest to piece together the night’s events, leading to outrageously funny moments. The chemistry between Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis makes this friend group unforgettable.
Bad Boys (1995)
Watch ‘Bad Boys’ on WOW❯
The term ‘buddy movie’ often conjures images of police duos tackling crime together. In the original ‘Bad Boys’, detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, portrayed by Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, find themselves facing off against quirky criminals. Blending action with absurd dialogue, the ‘Bad Boys’ series has become a classic, recently welcoming its fourth installment, ‘Bad Boys: Axel F’.
Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
Watch ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ on Disney+ ❯
‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ offers a unique take on the buddy movie genre. As superheroes, Deadpool, played by Ryan Reynolds, and Wolverine, portrayed by Hugh Jackman, must join forces to combat evil. Their outrageous antics and playful banter will surely entertain superhero fans, making this collaboration a must-see.
Superbad (2007)
Buy/Rent ‘Superbad’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
A hallmark of great comedy involves pairing awkward outsiders to navigate their lives. ‘Superbad’ exemplifies this with its hilarious portrayal of characters Seth, Evan, and Fogell, played by Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. Their ridiculous antics make them endearing, capturing the essence of awkward adolescence.
Timeless Comedies
Sometimes, we turn to classic films that promise guaranteed laughter. The following comedies are beloved gems that have entertained audiences for years.
Back to the Future (1985)
Watch ‘Back to the Future’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
Almost four decades since its release, ‘Back to the Future’ remains a hilarious time travel adventure. The film follows teenager Marty McFly, whose life takes a wild turn when he travels back in time with an eccentric professor. This iconic film, which launched Michael J. Fox into stardom, continues to delight with its humor, nostalgia, and charm.
Forrest Gump (1994)
Watch ‘Forrest Gump’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
‘Forrest Gump’ can be summed up in three words: inspiring, entertaining, and educational. The film follows a boy with a low IQ who decides to run through pivotal moments of the 60s and 70s in America, driven by his love for childhood friend Jenny. This comedy beautifully illustrates that love knows no bounds and that perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.
The Big Lebowski (1998)
Buy/Rent ‘The Big Lebowski’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
Renowned for their absurd and unconventional films, the Coen brothers deliver a classic with ‘The Big Lebowski’. The story revolves around ‘The Dude’, who is mistakenly identified as a wealthy businessman, leading him on a quest for justice. The film thrives on its quirky character and rich atmosphere, making it a unique viewing experience.
Pirates of the Caribbean (2003)
Watch ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ on Disney+❯
What could be better than a drunken pirate on a mission to reclaim his ship? The ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series, inspired by a Disneyland attraction, features Johnny Depp as the iconic Captain Jack Sparrow, along with Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom. Together, they transport audiences to a fantastical world filled with pirates, mythical creatures, and uproarious duels.
Family-Friendly Fun
For many families, a perfect evening at home includes a movie night where everyone can enjoy something delightful. Often, animated films provide great entertainment for both kids and adults alike.
Inside Out (2015)
Watch ‘Inside Out’ on Disney+ ❯
What happens inside our minds when we experience different emotions? ‘Inside Out’ provides a charming and humorous exploration of emotions through the eyes of young Riley. With personified emotions guiding the story, this film captures the complexities of feelings in a fun and engaging way.