Top 10 Horror Comedies
#10: “Zombieland” (2009)
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Instead of trying to outright scare people, “Zombieland” opts to make them laugh with a clever meta-commentary on the genre. The lead character Columbus develops rules on how to live through an epidemic. On the road with Tallahassee, the hero’s neurotic tendencies conflict with his more physically-able friend. There’s also more than a few instances of genuine blood splatter. Never taking itself too seriously though, the movie features an A-grade star cameo to keep the mood light. With strong performances from Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harrelson, this horror flick shines with some funny dialogue and an entertaining adventure.
#9: “The Cabin in the Woods” (2011)
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To this day, horror movie characters still haven’t learned to avoid creepy houses in the middle of nowhere. “The Cabin in the Woods” decides to use this trope and other cliches in order to subvert expectations. Resulting in some darkly funny scenes, the film works as a parody and revisionist look at the genre. There’s also more than a few surprises along the way that make this cabin that much more sinister. From overconfident jocks to inspired monster cameos, anybody with a deep love of classic horror will definitely find something to chuckle over - and then some!
#8: “An American Werewolf in London” (1981)
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Directed by John Landis, “An American Werewolf in London” might be among the most terrifying comedies of its kind. David Kessler is attacked by a werewolf and later transforms into one. His change into the fearsome creature ranks among the grossest and creepiest moments in horror. Did we mention this is a pretty funny movie, also? Landis doesn’t skimp on the jokes as Kessler struggles to hold back his killer urges under the full moon. It’s definitely a dark comedy, but there’s also some scary parts to balance out the experience. The shocking ending really brings home the unorthodox mix of tones. Often underappreciated, “An American Werewolf in London” deserves a place alongside the best of the genre.
#7: “Beetlejuice” (1988)
A freshly-dead couple wish to scare away the new residents of their home. They enlist the help of the bio-exorcist Beetlejuice, but their plans don’t go exactly as they hoped. Michael Keaton’s role as the titular character ranks among the most striking and entertaining of its decade. Combined with the direction of Tim Burton, this zany comedy completely turns the haunted-house genre on its head. The movie ends up being a crazy adventure that’s caught between the land of the living and the dead. For even more wacky fun, and to keep audiences on their heels, the film includes some wonderful calypso music sequences.
#6: “Shaun of the Dead” (2004)
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What if an underachiever and his slacker friend had to survive the zombie apocalypse? “Shaun of the Dead” answers this question with some hilarious changes to the genre. Directed by Edgar Wright, this stylish comedy features Simon Pegg as the titular character who stumbles his way through an outbreak. Shaun and his friend Ed bring their own brand of dark humor to the tense situation. With some dry British wit, these unlikely heroes end up doing a much better job than anyone could have expected. Thanks to a laser-tight script, this movie shines every step of the way as a laugh-a-minute horror/comedy classic.
#5: “What We Do in the Shadows” (2014)
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Mockumentaries have never quite looked like this movie. Turning the camera on a group of vampires, “What We Do in the Shadows” does a wonderful job making the viewers fall in love with them. Living as roommates, the hilarious characters bicker and argue just as anybody else would. Watching the gang fend off werewolves and hang out with their human friend Stu makes for delightful viewing. Actor and co-director Taika Waititi also makes sure to include some fun jabs at vampire mythology. Creating a fish-out-of-water story, the film finds plenty of comedy in putting a group of lovable villains in modern society.
#4: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975)
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When a couple finds themselves at a strange castle, their lives are unraveled by a cast of musically-talented characters. This ambitious tale turned a stage show into a cinematic phenomenon. Parodying both horror and sci-fi films, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is nothing short of bold in its storytelling. Powered by the performances of Tim Curry, the film features an explosion of costumes, makeup, and wacky songs. Becoming a celebrated cult experience, the movie has enjoyed an enduring legacy that inspires midnight screenings all over the world to this day.
#3: “Ghostbusters” (1984)
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Among the most popular and quoted comedies from the 1980s, “Ghostbusters” is an essential part of pop culture. Starring multiple legends, the movie expertly uses its cast in a hilarious take on ghost stories. Parapsychologists stumble upon a serious problem in New York City, using their wits and technical prowess to subdue their targets. It’s a mix of comedy and horror that also includes some memorable catchphrases. Bill Murray’s often-improvised performance ranks among the greatest parts of this haunted adventure. Whether you’re a horror fan or just want to laugh, you’ll find plenty to love about this classic.
#2: “Young Frankenstein” (1974)
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Co-written by Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks, this parody of the legendary character includes amazing jokes and an effective atmosphere. Brooks’ black and white presentation makes the movie feel like a true time capsule. Wilder’s lead performance blends the mad scientist with a tragic comedy figure. With a dynamic cast alongside him, the actor shines with some hilarious scenes parodying the original Frankenstein films. There’s also an incredible dance number that keeps the laughs coming. Come for the takedown of classic horror elements, but stay for the loving tribute to James Whale’s “Frankenstein.” Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Re-Animator” (1985)
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“Gremlins” (1984)
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“Tucker & Dale vs. Evil” (2010)
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“Scary Movie” (2000)
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“Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon” (2006)
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#1: “Evil Dead 2” (1987)
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Director Sam Raimi decided to go with an unconventional approach for the sequel to his own movie. Instead of continuing the events of “Evil Dead,” the talented filmmaker and his collaborators altered the tone to something much more comedic. The same general plot of unlucky people visiting a spooky cabin remains, but this time things get wilder with its camerawork and acting. Bruce Campbell’s performance alone brings forth some incredible physical comedy that includes fighting his own hand. Changing the trajectory of the franchise, Raimi created an even more entertaining and memorable remix on the horror genre. This also prompted the dramatically different sequel “Army of Darkness”.
