Top 10 Funniest DreamWorks Movie Moments

“Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” (2008)
There are no shortage of funny moments in a series like “Madagascar”, but this one always gets us. As he finds himself in a quickly plummeting plane, Melman the giraffe seizes this near-death experience as an opportunity to do something brave: confess his love to Gloria the hippo. Seconds after his big declaration, however, the camera pans to reveal Gloria is fast asleep, snoring away. While the hippo of his dreams may not have heard him, all of Melman’s friends certainly have. The looks they exchange are hilarious, and Melman’s immediate attempt to save face is the cherry on top.

“Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” (2022)
When the audience is first introduced to Perrito, the tiny teacup mutt, we see that he’s a happy-go-lucky, optimistic character, especially in contrast to the slightly cynical Puss in Boots. This leads him into a slightly sticky situation when he mistakes Goldi and the Three Bears’ confrontation for some sort of roast battle. He unleashes what we imagine is a rather scalding series of insults, though we can’t hear most of it because it’s so bad it has to be censored. Hearing such foul language come out of an adorable little guy makes for an awesome, if unexpected turn of events.

“Kung Fu Panda” (2008)
“Kung Fu Panda,” like many DreamWorks classics, is full of lighthearted physical comedy done right. Although the audience roots for the lovable Po, we can’t help but chuckle at his misadventures, especially early on in his journey to becoming the Dragon Warrior. One of Po’s first physical challenges in the series is going through an obstacle course. Naturally, with no formal training, he stumbles from section to section until near the end when he’s repeatedly thwacked by rotating spiked wooden clubs, one of which catches his “tenders.” Po’s horribly pained reaction followed by more whacking almost immediately creates the perfect slapstick moment.

“How to Train Your Dragon” (2010)
In an attempt to show Astrid the true nature of dragons, Hiccup takes her for a ride with Toothless. By this point, however, Toothless has already become pretty protective over Hiccup and he doesn’t take kindly to the way Astrid treats him. So, he decides to make the trip, uh… memorable. Toothless’ antics, combined with Hiccup’s commentary and Astrid’s screams make this an eventful watch full of giggling. Eventually, once Toothless hears remorse from Astrid, he lets up on the roller coaster maneuvering, and the ride evolves from chaotic to calm, giving this funny scene a sweet ending.

“Shrek” (2001)
Some of the most entertaining moments in “Shrek” come from its sharp parody and critique of pop culture. In this scene, the Magic Mirror takes on the role of dating show presenter, introducing a list of eligible bachelorettes to Lord Farquaad. The first two candidates are rather recognizable, of course, but it’s their descriptions that always crack us up. We love a modern retelling. In addition to the Magic Mirror’s announcer voice, the game show music and that one guy clapping in the back really tie the whole scene together.

“Kung Fu Panda 2” (2011)
When Po and the Furious Five are captured by Lord Shen’s army, the panda faces one foe he’s apparently never quite conquered. As Lord Shen waits at the top of the stairs for everyone to arrive, we hear grunting and rumbling, implying that Po isn’t necessarily losing the battle, but perhaps not quite winning it either. In the end, pity is taken on him, and he’s afforded some help to the top. Jack Black’s line delivery is comedy gold, and his little spiel at the end including his exchange with Lord Shen is simply fantastic.

“The Road to El Dorado” (2000)
Right as Tzekel-Kan is about to perform a human sacrifice, Miguel and Tulio think fast on their feet to prevent it from happening, resulting in one of the funniest and most memorable interactions in “The Road to El Dorado.” What predicts fate, if not the stars? Tulio thinks on his feet and Miguel is right there to back him up with an almost bored confidence. This whole movie managed to infuse stellar humor in a plot that might otherwise feature extremely grim moments, and this is a perfect example. These two make for a pair whose antics we never get tired of watching.

“Bee Movie” (2007)
“Bee Movie” is so unserious and unhinged that we really can’t be surprised when it delivers gems like this. One of its most memorably chaotic scenes is when Ken, Vanessa’s boyfriend, attempts to kill Barry B. Benson by spraying him with an air freshener, only for Barry to cheerily reply, “I love the smell of flowers!” With Patrick Warburton at the mic, we’re in stitches as Ken quickly goes from zero – or maybe about fifteen – to one hundred, quickly constructing a homemade flamethrower with the air freshener. The ensuing chase around the bathroom is a masterclass in slapstick comedy .

“Shrek 2” (2004)
When the Fairy Godmother sternly says “You’ve forced me to do something I really don’t want to do!” while glowering at Princess Fiona’s dad, King Harold, the tension is palpable as the king prepares for the worst. Of course, this being a DreamWorks movie, this scene is expertly played for laughs as the Fairy Godmother turns to place an order for “two Renaissance Wraps, no mayo, and chili rings” at Friar’s Fat Boy. The ultra-quick, unexpected pivot from dramatic confrontation to fast-food order is what gives this moment its charm.


Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

We Probably Sounded Exactly Like This in the Back Seat of Our Parents’ Car

The Quick Cut & Shee Absurdity Is Comedic Genius

This Scene Is Equal Parts Hilarious & Heartwarming

Po’s Commitment to Securing a Snack Is Unparalleled

We’d Be Just as Surprised as the Taxi Driver

“Shrek 2” (2004)
In this fantastic musical sequence, the Fairy Godmother breaks into an emotional cover of Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out For A Hero.” Her over-the-top theatrical style combined with the exaggerated choreography, the overall absurdity of the entire show, and the simultaneous commotion ensuing just outside of the castle walls highlight the “Shrek” franchise at its peak as a parody of traditional fairy tale tropes. Although the Fairy Godmother is the star of this scene, every participating character pulls their weight, making this a culmination of comedic talent.

Let us know YOUR favorite laugh-out-loud DreamWorks moments in the comments!