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Top 100 Funniest Movies of All Time

Top 100 Funniest Movies of All Time
VOICE OVER: Rebecca Brayton WRITTEN BY: Andy Hammersmith
Need a laugh? Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're counting down our picks for the films that make us laugh the most, even if they're not all the greatest movies ever made. Our countdown includes movies "Superbad", "When Harry Met Sally...", "Duck Soup" and more!
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the films that make us laugh the most, even if they’re not all the greatest movies ever made. We’ve considered their comedic performances, the strength of their humor, and their legacy and influence on the genre. Did we forget another of the best comedy films ever made? Let us know in the comments below.

#100: “Hot Rod” (2007)
Andy Samberg and his Lonely Island buddies are no strangers to underrated comedies like “Popstar.” In the group’s 2007 collaboration, Samberg’s Rod Kimble embraces his calling as a stuntman to raise funds for his stepfather. The lead comedian plays the hero as a trademark goofball, helped by a stellar cast including Bill Hader and Danny McBride. The film’s central quest inspires the main character to do all kinds of wacky stunts. Through it all, we laugh as many of them go terribly wrong. “Hot Rod” also leans into an absurd sense of humor that’s undeniably entertaining. With “SNL” veterans and other legends giving it their all, this over-the-top comedy reaches the finish line with flying colors.

#99: “Barbie” (2023)
When the titular doll starts to feel different, she travels to the real world to investigate. This premise kicks off a movie that is much more than a corporate cash-in. Greta Gerwig directs a film that celebrates and makes fun of the Barbie image. Tackling topics from commercialism to misogyny, she and co-writer Noah Baumbach create set pieces loaded with subversive humor. Margot Robbie’s fantastic lead performance guides us through this surreal comedy, but let’s not forget Ryan Gosling’s hilarious turn as Ken. The filmmakers find a way to make us laugh at Mattel’s creation while delivering positive messages to women of all ages.

#98: “They Came Together” (2014)
Poking fun at genre cliches, “They Came Together” is for rom-com lovers and haters. The story of Joel and Molly’s relationship plays out as you might expect. In this story, the filmmakers decide to do it all in the most ridiculous way possible. The lead characters go through variations of the meet-cute and dates with funny twists. Every step of the way, the performers lean into the sappy dialogue and predictable plot for comedic effect. Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler have fun alongside a long list of co-stars that include more than a few surprising cameos. As an effective parody, this movie feels like the perfect takedown of all the romantic tropes we’ve come to know and love.

#97: “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story” (2004)
To fight back against a corporate takeover, the working-class heroes of Average Joe’s Gym compete in a dodgeball tournament. The sports film serves as an underdog story and an excuse for some amazing gags. Thankfully for the audience, the filmmakers use this as an opportunity to have fun. Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller lead a cast of talented performers that roll with the punches, or in this case wrenches. The training sequences alone will have you laughing as the characters transform into unlikely athletes. From physical comedy to surprise cameos, this movie throws out the rule book to serve up some hilarious scenes.

#96: “MacGruber” (2010)
Taking his “SNL” character to the big screen, Will Forte proves that the role deserves much more than a comedy sketch. The film gives Forte and his collaborators a chance to spread their wings and earn an R-rating. When his nemesis steals a nuclear warhead, MacGruber feels compelled to seek revenge and save the world. The comedian stops at nothing to get a laugh in sequences that fly in the face of good taste. Dixon Piper and Vicki St. Elmo both try to help, with extended jokes putting everyone in hilarious situations. The lead performer and Kristen Wiig are two standouts in a comedy that doesn’t pull any punches.

#95: “The Wedding Singer” (1998)
Set in the 1980s, this Adam Sandler vehicle features all kinds of references to the decade. It also lets the comedian sing and joke his way through an entertaining premise. His singer Robbie Hart finds himself at a crossroads, with his fiancée leaving him waiting at the altar and sending him into an emotional spiral. Sandler uses this to bring out his angry, comic personality with more than a few memorable lines. Drew Barrymore plays the potential love interest that keeps Hart motivated. Along with the two great lead roles, “The Wedding Singer” makes sure to include a handful of supporting parts to keep things interesting. It might be underrated to some, but it’s also nostalgic and hilarious.

#94: “Napoleon Dynamite” (2004)
Some films come out of seemingly nowhere, giving viewers an entirely new experience. “Napoleon Dynamite” feels like a gift from an offbeat and parallel universe. Director Jared Hess adapted his short film into a feature about an awkward teenager, creating one of the most quotable movies of the 2000s. Jon Heder delivers a stubborn and hilarious role that only he could’ve played. Through his relationships with his family and friends, Dynamite comes to realize that his independent spirit might actually have value. It’s funny, upbeat, and something truly special in a world full of rehashed ideas.

#93: “Tucker & Dale vs. Evil” (2010)
In this sendup of horror movies, two hillbillies find themselves as accidental villains. They both try to be nice despite coming off as evil to a group of college students. This misunderstanding establishes the script’s central joke, juxtaposing Tucker and Dale’s kind personalities with the over-the-top violence. The heroes’ attempts to talk and even save the kids all fail in spectacular ways. With chainsaws and woodchippers, the comedy features a host of gags that will have any horror fan howling with laughter. The dark humor never lets up as the two leads watch the younger characters perish.

#92: “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” (1963)
Many comedies boast impressive casts, but few can rival the star power of this crazy adventure. Stanley Kramer’s film includes almost every notable comic of the era. From Milton Berle to Mickey Rooney, this incredible lineup plays assorted misfits that race to a stash of buried money. There’s also a handful of famous cameos that’ll have you entertained until the very end. Characters crash cars, destroy gas stations, and cause all kinds of mayhem across an epic running time. The ridiculous premise allows for bold performances and a climax that takes physical comedy to the next level.

#91: “The Jerk” (1979)
At the start of this wacky story, Steve Martin’s hero Navin Johnson tells the audience about his unexpected upbringing. This starts the delightfully absurd and hilarious adventure known as “The Jerk.” Martin’s endearing character sets out to discover himself, running into trouble as he works odd jobs including one at a gas station. His unique worldview powers many of the film’s funniest sequences. Rising from rags to riches, Johnson tries to navigate success and romance without knowing what he’s doing. The comedian plays the dim-witted man to perfection as a source of endless entertainment.

#90: “The Pink Panther” (1963)
With “The Pink Panther,” Peter Sellers created an enduring comedy role. The original film puts Inspector Jacques Clouseau in more of a supporting position, but Sellers makes it a lead part by stealing every scene. The investigator searches for the jewel thief Sir Charles despite his own clumsiness. He struggles against his deceptive wife and Charles’ nephew, presenting him with a few more chances to make some hilarious mistakes. There are also set pieces such as the party and chase scene, which puts the inspector to the test. Director Blake Edwards lets the comedian run wild, setting up an enjoyable franchise full of even more wacky hijinks.

#89: “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” (2003)

#88: “Pineapple Express” (2008)

#87: “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)

#86: “The Big Sick” (2017)

#85: “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” (1997)
For anybody who’s considered going to their high-school reunion, they’ll find a lot to relate to about this film. Romy and Michele are friends that don’t have much direction in life. Before they go back to meet their classmates, the heroes create hilarious plans to reinvent themselves. The lead actresses Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino have amazing chemistry as their characters fake their way to success. Taking a relatable feeling and stretching it for comedic effect, the movie plays with the anxieties of everyday people who want to be loved. It’s also easy to enjoy with the addition of some incredible dance sequences.

#84: “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” (2008)

#83: “Zoolander” (2001)

#82: “Beverly Hills Cop” (1984)

#81: “Happy Gilmore” (1996)

#80: “Clue” (1985)
Inspired by the board game, this comedy brings together a group of blackmailed dinner guests to a mansion. They then scramble to figure out what’s happening as people start dying. As an homage to classic murder mysteries, the movie thrills as much as it induces laughter. The eclectic ensemble lets the likes of Eileen Brennan, Madeline Kahn, and Martin Mull bounce off of each other with funny one-liners. There’s also the whirlwind performance of Tim Curry that completely steals the show for the final analysis. It’s pure entertainment that’ll keep you guessing and smiling throughout.

#79: “The Odd Couple” (1968)

#78: “Booksmart” (2019)

#77: “Knocked Up” (2007)

#76: “Tootsie” (1982)

#75: “Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story” (2007)
After biopics like “Walk the Line,” this movie chose to take a much different look at the rise of a musician. The fictional Dewey Cox rides a rollercoaster that mashes up the origins of Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and more legends of music. It also completely makes fun of the genre’s sometimes overwrought and pretentious elements. Cox is so narcissistic that you can’t help but laugh, watching him stumble his way through fame and different musical stylings. John C. Reilly’s tour-de-force work makes this absurd fantasy come to life, giving the film its comedic anchor. You’ll never be able to watch a music biopic the same way again.

#74: “Beetlejuice” (1988)

#73: “Wayne’s World” (1992)

#72: “Home Alone” (1990)

#71: “Dazed and Confused” (1993)

#70: “The Hangover” (2009)
Who knew a comedy could be this funny and even a little bit revolutionary? It’s strange to think of “The Hangover” as anything more than a good time, but it also included an inventive plot. Three members of a bachelor party piece together their wild Vegas night while searching for the groom. This leads them down a hilarious investigation full of detours, stun guns, and blackjack. There’s also a surprising cameo from boxer Mike Tyson, revealing himself to be a Phil Collins fan who hasn’t lost his ability to fight. It’s ultimately a fully loaded R-rated that isn’t afraid to go there. Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and especially Zach Galifianakis make this film one to remember.

#69: “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982)

#68: “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004)

#67: “Big” (1988)

#66: “Easy A” (2010)

#65: “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987)
When Neal Page and Del Griffith need to get home for Thanksgiving, they form a troubled alliance to make the trip. The businessmen are complete opposites, leading to some classic comedy thanks to writer and director John Hughes. Steve Martin and John Candy are an incredible comic team that redefines the definition of an odd couple. Along the way, their schemes put them in various vehicles that prove to be dangerous and hilarious. Candy in particular steals the movie with his unfiltered, wholesome, and unforgettable personality. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” lets the two actors prove why they’re comedy icons.

#64: “Galaxy Quest” (1999)

#63: “The Nice Guys” (2016)

#62: “The Blues Brothers” (1980)

#61: “Clerks” (1994)

#60: “Deadpool” (2016)
Boldly going where few superhero movies went before, “Deadpool” was a breath of fresh air for comic book fans. It also helped remind people that an R-rated comedy can be a blockbuster. Ryan Reynolds was arguably born to play the lead hero, giving a running commentary as the quippy Wade Wilson. The ultra-violence, meta jokes, and irreverent tone combine to make something close to groundbreaking. Parodying the genre and indulging in its cliches, the film breaks Wilson down and builds him back up as a snarky warrior. Reynolds finds a way to be heroic and break the fourth wall while laying a foundation for some funny sequels.

#59: “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” (1989)

#58: “American Pie” (1999)

#57: “The Apartment” (1960)

#56: “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (2014)

#55: “His Girl Friday” (1940)
Fast-paced and sharply written, “His Girl Friday” represents a highlight of Golden Age Hollywood. Cary Grant stars as the newspaper editor trying to keep his ex-wife around for one more job. Adapted from the play “The Front Page,” this snappy film keeps you engaged with its verbal sparring. Grant is as good as ever with a comic persona that brought to life other classics like “Bringing Up Baby.” Rosalind Russell holds her own as the editor’s former partner, matching the lead actor’s comedic timing and charms. It’s an effective comedy that flies by with excellent source material.

#54: “Raising Arizona” (1987)

#53: “Wedding Crashers” (2005)

#52: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989)

#51: “Dumb and Dumber” (1994)

#50: “Mean Girls” (2004)
Inspired by a self-help book and Tina Fey’s own life, this comedy might be the definitive high school film of the 2000s. The movie is a widely-referenced, pop-culture juggernaut that never fails to make us laugh. It follows the journey of one teenager who falls in with a popular group of girls and slowly turns bad. The performances from the cast, especially Rachel McAdams as Regina George, standalone as memorable. “Mean Girls” isn’t just an iconic quote machine either, it also features many universal themes about friendship and acceptance. Fey’s script is a fantastic blend of hilarious gags and natural humor about the most awkward years of our lives.

#49: “My Cousin Vinny” (1992)

#48: “Paddington” (2014)

#47: “The Birdcage” (1996)

#46: “The General” (1926)

#45: “Best in Show” (2000)
Christopher Guest directed many improvised comedies, including the endearing “Waiting for Guffman.” He later brought back several performers from that project to make “Best in Show.” As a group of dog owners converge on Philadelphia, they each bring their own eccentric personalities with them. Guest follows the preparation and competition closely as the characters try to keep their cool. Letting the actors run free in scenes, the filmmaker allows for more spontaneity as diverse contestants mingle. There’s also Fred Willard delivering unforgettable commentary as the announcer.

#44: “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (2002)

#43: “Office Space” (1999)

#42: “Ghostbusters” (1984)

#41: “Hot Fuzz” (2007)

#40: “Dr. Strangelove” (1964)
While satirizing a serious subject, Stanley Kubrick created a masterpiece about Cold War hysteria. A rogue general initiates a possible nuclear scenario as the president tries to stop him. Led by the brilliant Peter Sellers, this film includes some spectacular work from Sterling Hayden and especially George C. Scott. The entire premise strikes both fear and laughs into viewers’ hearts. Sellers plays three distinct roles, selling each of them as only a master of film comedy could. His outrageous dialogue as the title doctor is worth the price of admission alone. Along with envisioning doomsday, “Dr. Strangelove” succeeds by letting crazed characters loose in the War Room.

#39: “A Fish Called Wanda” (1988)

#38: “There’s Something About Mary” (1998)

#37: “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” (1994)

#36: “Tropic Thunder” (2008)

#35: “What We Do in the Shadows” (2014)
Directed by Taika Waititi, “What We Do in the Shadows” is a horror movie like no other. It mixes the style of a mockumentary with a comedy about vampires. With this combination, this film really stands out for its comic moments between the sharp-toothed roommates. They also have some comical run-ins with their werewolf rivals. As they try to live amongst humans, the heroes deal with all of the usual problems you’d expect from vampire lore. Waititi and his co-star are lovable characters that transcend the usual cliches about the villainous creatures. His versatile approach to comedy storytelling also created the award-winning “Jojo Rabbit.”

#34: “Groundhog Day” (1993)

#33: “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986)

#32: “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” (1997)

#31: “Clueless” (1995)

#30: “Duck Soup” (1933)
If you want zany comedies, look no further than the Marx Brothers. Their work here is often regarded as one of their best alongside other entries like the entertaining “A Night at the Opera.” “Duck Soup” follows the reign of Rufus T. Firefly, taking over the country of Freedonia and plunging it into war. The political satire isn’t taken too seriously as Groucho, Chico, Harpo, and Zeppo wreak havoc on the rulebook. Full of fun one-liners and gags, the movie features one of the group’s most famous routines with a mirror. There’s something for everyone here as sharp dialogue, physical comedy, and music fill the screen.

#29: “The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!” (1988)

#28: “School of Rock” (2003)

#27: “Back to the Future” (1985)

#26: “Step Brothers” (2008)

#25: “Annie Hall” (1977)
While he directed great films before this one, Woody Allen arguably upped his game with “Annie Hall.” The Oscar-winning movie examines Alvy Singer’s life and relationship with a remarkable woman. Allen uses flashbacks, fourth-wall breaks, and other inventive methods to analyze where it all went wrong. The filmmaker’s direction and writing maximize the comedic potential of this romantic story. Diane Keaton’s amazing turn as Hall gives Singer a fantastic partner, bringing charm and nuance to the female lead. It’s as hilarious as it is introspective, earning laughs through the human moments that come with falling in and out of love.

#24: “Caddyshack” (1980)

#23: “21 Jump Street” (2012)

#22: “Monty Python’s Life of Brian” (1979)

#21: “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” (2005)

#20: “Coming to America” (1988)
When Prince Akeem goes to America to find a wife, he realizes that the Western country is not necessarily paradise. It’s also full of hilarious moments courtesy of Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall. The two actors fill out the cast of memorable characters that give the main hero a unique view of the US. With an enjoyable premise, Murphy is free to play all kinds of crazy people from barbers to singers. His versatile performances here range from complete innocence to completely out of control. He’s at the top of his game here in the decade that made him a comedy icon.

#19: “Elf” (2003)
Bringing laughs and holiday cheer to audiences, “Elf” feels like a welcome addition to the cinematic Christmas canon. Will Ferrell plays the main character who discovers he’s actually a human. Journeying to New York to find his father, Buddy learns about everyday life in the Big Apple the hard way. He also falls in love with Zooey Deschanel’s department store employee. Ferrell’s boundless cheer can’t be overstated here. He injects the hero with a bubbly personality, adding to the hilarity of this fish-out-of-water story. We can’t imagine another December without the relentless positivity of this family comedy.

#18: “It Happened One Night” (1934)
The modern rom-com might as well have started here. Two opposing forces find themselves on an adventure together, going from enemies to lovers by the end. Frank Capra’s classic stars Clark Gable as a desperate reporter on the trail of the rich runaway Claudette Colbert. Their road trip allows them to get to know each other, pitting their witty personalities against each other and making way for romance. The movie also famously won the big five Oscars, including Best Picture. Contemporary audiences will be surprised by how much this film still works.

#17: “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989)
Few movies can capture the real complexities of relationships while also being funny. “When Harry Met Sally…” manages to do just that, presenting a realistic story that’s full of humanity and genuine laughs. The main characters find themselves contemplating friendship, romance, and gender politics. After a while, it becomes clear that they should be together forever. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan play their roles perfectly, fighting with each other through engaging conversations. There’s also the undeniable power of sequences such as the quotable deli scene. Nora Ephron’s brilliant script meshes perfectly with Rob Reiner’s direction, giving future filmmakers a new benchmark for the genre.

#16: “Superbad” (2007)
Not all high school movies are built the same. “Superbad” could have just as easily been forgettable, but the script by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg lets the performers work with some hilarious material. Jonah Hill and Michael Cera shine as two friends desperate to buy alcohol and go to a party. Along the way, they deal with their inept friend Fogell and his attempts to get a fake ID. Their night truly becomes a chaotic escapade that’s nothing short of iconic. Everything from the two cops hanging out to the crazy party makes this film stand out from the pack.

#15: “Shaun of the Dead” (2004)
As the first entry in the Cornetto trilogy, “Shaun of the Dead” spoofs the finer details of zombie films. Director Edgar Wright shows you what happens when slackers discover an outbreak. Their reaction to the news is one thing, but it’s even funnier to watch them battle the undead. Their plans to survive don’t go exactly to plan and prompt an adventure to prove themselves. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are perfect as Shaun and Ed, bringing their British humor to a blood-soaked plot. This unique blend of jokes and terror breathes new life into a well-worn genre.

#14: “Animal House” (1978)
At the end of the 1970s, some of the best comic minds of the decade came together to make “Animal House.” It arguably remains the definitive comedy about the college experience. The infamous Delta house organizes crazy parties, but they also endure the wrath of Dean Wormer. This movie also helped to turn the toga into an iconic costume for any party. Most importantly, it highlighted the comedic talents of John Belushi as Bluto. The film tells an underdog story that includes famous gags, catchy music, and hilarious lines. You could even say it stirred up a style of comedy all its own, paving the way for decades of knock-offs and frat-boy imitators.

#13: “Young Frankenstein” (1974)
From the mind of Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder, “Young Frankenstein” might be the quintessential horror parody. This sendup of the monster series follows what happens when another member of the Frankensteins takes up the family business. Wilder plays the hero scientist, using his best acting skills to deliver a virtuoso performance. He earns laughs along with the all-star cast that includes Cloris Leachman, Madeline Kahn, and Marty Feldman. There’s even a scene that proves Gene Hackman can be funny. The endless gags manage to be both a brilliant nod to the genre and a fantastic standalone experience.

#12: “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993)
Robin Williams is electric in so many films, but this one captures one of his funniest performances. When a divorced father wants to spend more time with his kids, he decides to become their nanny. Williams transforms into an older British woman who’s got her own spunky personality. He’s literally on fire here, unafraid to go the extra mile for a great gag. Allowing the comedian to show off his wit and physical comedy, “Mrs. Doubtfire” feels like a perfect showcase for his talents. He finds a way to play a convincing dual role in a highlight of his 1990s filmography.

#11: “Modern Times” (1936)
Most of Charlie Chaplin’s films deliver on his talent for physical comedy, including “City Lights” and “The Great Dictator.” “Modern Times” is no different, but it also has a larger message about society, labor, and industrialization. His assembly-line worker battles against the innovations that might put him out of a job. With satire and slapstick, Chaplin turns a factory into the perfect breeding ground for comedy. Memorable sights include his hero entering the bowels of industrial machines or even roller skating near a precarious drop-off. Even as the sound era was well underway, the filmmaker chose to blend in silent sequences about the wonder and horrors awaiting society.

#10: “Bridesmaids” (2011)
With an amazing ensemble, “Bridesmaids” gives some of the funniest people on earth a chance to shine. Kristen Wiig’s hero struggles to realize that her friend is getting married and moving on without her. On top of that, the film gives Wiig an opportunity to work alongside Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, and Melissa McCarthy. The latter gives an Oscar-nominated performance, which only makes scenes like the plane ride that much better. We haven’t even mentioned the food poisoning sequence, turning a fun comedy into an unforgettable one. Throw in a cameo from Wilson Phillips and you have a certified classic.

#9: “Some Like It Hot” (1959)
In creating this classic film, director Billy Wilder reminded everyone why he is a master of his craft. The filmmaker puts Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis in two of their finest roles. Both actors play musicians who need to skip town, taking a job posing as women. They end up traveling to Florida with Marilyn Monroe’s Sugar while trying to keep up their disguises. Part of the comedy comes from their constant need to pretend, creating new personas that prompt hilarious scenes. Lemmon especially gets huge laughs as his female alter ego becomes the target of an older man. Even if the overall package hasn’t aged perfectly, the script still has enough comedy to remain timeless.

#8: “The Big Lebowski” (1998)
Written and directed by the Coen brothers, this film stands as one of their best dark comedies next to other gems like “Burn After Reading.” It follows the trials and tribulations of a bowler known as “The Dude.” When he’s mistaken for a wealthy man, the hero finds himself inside a mystery about an alleged kidnapping. He also wants to find out about why someone would ruin his rug. Dude does get some help from two loyal and lovable friends, but they hopelessly fumble through the plot. Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, and the rest of the cast deliver in big and small roles. The level of detail here makes every odd joke even funnier and every surprise turn more satisfying.

#7: “This Is Spinal Tap” (1984)
Whether or not it invented the format, “This Is Spinal Tap” helped to popularize the idea of the mockumentary. The film relies on a talented cast to largely improvise their lines. Director Rob Reiner comes together with Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer to create magic. The latter three don wigs and convincing accents to portray a British band that’s fading out. Each actor plays it completely straight as they talk about dying drummers and amps that go to eleven. It’s jam-packed with quotes, making for a hilarious experience you’ll want to revisit again and again. The improvisation is so impressive that it inspired so much comedy after it, but few projects can match this original vision.

#6: “The Princess Bride” (1987)
Taking a different look at the usual fairytale, “The Princess Bride” gives a much more comedic tone. The rich cast of characters includes everyone from Westley and Buttercup to the fun supporting characters like Inigo Montoya. Director Rob Reiner brings this all together by sticking to the fantastic script by William Goldman. There’s the initial chase with the hilarious Wallace Shawn, but then later you get funny scenes from Billy Crystal as Miracle Max. This doesn’t even mention Peter Falk’s delightful turn as the grandfather telling the story. Both smart and silly, the tale includes iconic lines and sequences that still excite to this day.

#5: “Borat” (2006)
From the mind of Sacha Baron Cohen, “Borat” follows a journalist from Kazakhstan as he explores American culture. At the expense of ordinary US citizens, Cohen helps to craft a film that uses some real people as unwitting accomplices. Some of them become the butt of the joke, while others tried desperately to teach Borat how to better understand the country. The comedian finds ways to shock and satisfy the audience with a performance that’s nothing short of dedicated. If anything, you might think the performer goes too far in a few instances. He does it all while making us laugh at the positive and negative aspects of America.

#4: “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” (2004)
With “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.” an unlikely hero emerged in the comedy world. Somehow director Adam McKay managed to make a movie about 1970s newscasters a classic, doing the same thing for NASCAR a few years later. He had a little help from some of the funniest people of the 2000s, including Will Ferrell in the title role. His gang of merry co-stars include Paul Rudd and Steve Carell’s incredible turn as Brick. McKay pushes the over-the-top humor to the max, throwing logic out the window in favor of scoring big laughs. The news brawl highlights the film’s ability to fly in the face of convention, showcasing a project full of supreme silliness.

#3: “Airplane!” (1980)
Taking on disaster movies, “Airplane!” is arguably the boldest parody of them all. The Zucker brothers and Jim Abrahams helped create a joke-a-minute formula for success. It’s also unafraid to throw anything at the audience, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as himself. They put a nervous and lovesick pilot on an airliner in trouble, forcing the hero to take charge. There are also loads of gags to make the in-flight entertainment extra special. Actors like Leslie Nielsen deliver everything straight, never winking even as the lines become more laughable. It’s a wild ride full of more celebrity cameos, movie references, and non-stop laughter.

#2: “Blazing Saddles” (1974)
To this day, “Blazing Saddles” could be considered one of the most controversial comedies ever. Mel Brooks pokes fun at the Western genre with a fast pace and a fourth-wall-breaking movie. It’s a summary of the man’s diverse vision, stretching from classics like “The Producers” to other parodies like “Spaceballs.” Brooks and fellow writers like Richard Pryor satirize racial prejudices in a Wild West venture that isn’t afraid to go the extra mile. With the inclusion of an impressive supporting cast, the director has an endless supply of comedic genius at his disposal. From Cleavon Little’s lead performance to Madeline Kahn’s singing, this film is nothing short of a groundbreaking and hilarious comedy.

#1: “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” (1975)
“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” represents many high points of the troupe’s comedy. It’s historic, silly, and full of absurd humor. Look no further than their plan to use coconuts instead of real horses. This Arthurian legend takes several hilarious detours, with each knight heading on their own journey to complete their goal. Each of the Pythons plays multiple characters along the way, proving that they can make audiences laugh with any number of voices or wardrobe choices. They even include a few anachronistic jokes to keep you on your toes. From arguments about swallows to killer rabbits, this comedy is chock-full of memorable animals and sight gags.
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