Table of Contents
Comedy movies that heavily rely on spontaneous, unscripted humor are a true comedic phenomenon. In these films, the plot merely serves as a foundation for the humor to organically develop. Comedians are skilled in understanding how a scene should progress, but they inject their unique flair into the dialogue, situations, and jokes, resulting in numerous unforgettable cinematic moments. Esteemed actors such as Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis have played a significant role in popularizing improv comedy, while Sacha Baron Cohen has effectively revitalized satire in the world of filmmaking.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the groundbreaking nature of “This is Spinal Tap,” which boldly ventured into the realm of improvisational mockumentary filmmaking back in 1984. It could even be argued that movies like “Borat” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” were able to flourish because “This is Spinal Tap” paved the way. Here, we’ve compiled a list of ten comedy films that became even funnier thanks to their numerous unscripted moments.
Sponsered English Shortfilm Playlist
10 Funny Films With Lots of Unscripted Moments
This Is Spinal Tap
The mockumentary film “This Is Spinal Tap,” directed by Rob Reiner in his directorial debut, played a significant role in popularizing the mockumentary style within the realm of fictional filmmaking. The movie revolves around the misadventures of a fledgling metal band called The Spinal Tap, as they unintentionally become the subjects of a documentary. Rob Reiner takes on the role of Martin Di Bergi, the filmmaker responsible for capturing the band’s tumultuous journey.
The band members, portrayed by Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, who are both musicians and comedians, largely rely on improvisation for their performances. At various points in the film, the actors even break character due to the unpredictable and humorous nature of their improvised interactions. “This Is Spinal Tap” effectively parodied the emerging trend of documentaries focusing on rock musicians during its time, while also lampooning the rebellious and somewhat aimless attitudes often associated with musicians.
The film quickly garnered a devoted following among music enthusiasts and experts, eventually attaining cult classic status in the years that followed its release.
The 40-Year-Old Virgin
“The 40-Year-Old Virgin” revolves around Andy Stitzer, portrayed by Steve Carell, as he embarks on a journey to shed his decades-long virginity. This romantic comedy owes much of its charm to its outstanding ensemble cast, including Catherine Keener, Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd, and Romany Malco, who play pivotal roles in helping Andy break out of his comfort zone. Working at an electronics store, Andy is prodded by his co-workers to explore his more adventurous side, becoming the central theme of the film. Steve Carell’s portrayal of Andy combines an endearing awkwardness with likability, making it heartwarming to witness his emotional evolution.
The film was helmed by Judd Apatow, known for his collaborative and improvisational approach with actors. The movie features numerous moments of improvisation, particularly in the memorable and excruciating chest waxing scene. This film catapulted Steve Carell’s career in the world of cinema and introduced many new fans to “The Office” following the movie’s success.
Ghostbusters
The popular supernatural comedy film “Ghostbusters” is often regarded as Bill Murray’s most iconic work, showcasing his signature deadpan humor. The movie stands out by taking a unique approach to the horror genre, incorporating whimsical, cartoon-like ghosts. The quirky plot follows three parapsychologists who establish their own paranormal investigation and removal agency, known as the Ghostbusters.
This group’s mission is to safeguard New York City from invading spirits from another dimension, using their clever methods to prevent these ghosts from causing havoc in the city. Bill Murray delivers a riotous performance as one of the Ghostbusters, alongside Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, and Harrold Ramis, all of whom skillfully keep pace with Murray’s amusing improvisations.
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
“Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy has left a notable mark in cinematic history. It marked Adam McKay’s directorial debut and featured Will Ferrell as the titular Ron Burgundy, a prominent television news anchor. The story revolves around Burgundy’s rivalry with reporter Veronica, played by Christina Applegate, and his embarrassing on-air insult, which endangers his career. In a bid to redeem himself, he stumbles upon a bizarre news story at the San Diego Zoo.
The film also boasts the comedic talents of Paul Rudd and Steve Carell, who add a touch of tongue-in-cheek humor to the narrative, satirizing the male-dominated newsroom culture of the 1970s. Will Ferrell’s portrayal of the outlandish character steals the spotlight and harkens back to his days on Saturday Night Live, where he surprised his fellow actors with his quick-witted improvisation. While the film received a mixed reception upon its release, it can be argued that it was ahead of its time. Over the years, it has gained a cult following and is now regarded as one of the standout comedy films of the 2000s.”
Borat
Sacha Baron Cohen is the driving force behind Borat and its sequel, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm. He portrays a fictional Kazakh journalist who engages with real Americans in unscripted interviews. Cohen’s extensive body of work heavily relies on improvisation to amplify sharp-edged satirical humor. Prior to Borat, he was famous for his character Ali G, an English wannabe rapper who interviewed notable figures like Noam Chomsky and Donald Trump, pushing their patience with foolish questions.
Borat follows a similar approach with its fictional journalist who possesses a skewed worldview and a lack of understanding about American life. In the first film, Borat often offends the people he encounters in mostly unscripted situations and develops feelings for Pamela Anderson as he embarks on a cross-country journey to marry her. In the second film, Borat returns to a post-Trump and Covid-affected America with his daughter. Both movies blur the lines between mockumentary and shockumentary as Cohen goes to great lengths to test American progressivism, bureaucratic complicity, and the country’s evolving values.
Release and distribute your short films, web series and album songs through Shortfundly and earn monthly. Click here to learn more.
Bruno
Sacha Baron Cohen follows up his iconic character Borat with a new satirical creation, Brüno. In this installment, Cohen embodies a flamboyant Austrian fashionista named Brüno who faces backlash after disrupting a fashion show. To relaunch his career, he heads to the United States to host a celebrity interview show. Brüno cleverly uses his sexuality to highlight and criticize the prejudices and objectification faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the entertainment industry. The film is intentionally provocative and may be hard to watch at times, as it aims to challenge viewers’ comfort zones. Certain segments of the movie had to be edited for television broadcasts due to their explicit content, and it was outright banned in Ukraine.
Bridesmaids
“Bridesmaids” is another comedy featuring talented SNL comedians, ensuring numerous spontaneous and entertaining moments. Kristen Wiig portrays Annie, a young woman facing a difficult phase in her life, marked by her business setbacks and her best friend Lillian, played by Maya Rudolph, getting engaged. Things get more complicated as Lillian befriends Helen, a new acquaintance who aims to replace Annie in her life. The coveted role of the maid of honor becomes a competitive battleground. The film delves into the rivalry between Annie and Helen while also exploring the emergence of new female friendships during Lillian’s wedding.
Thanks to Melissa McCarthy, the movie is brimming with many uproarious scenes that her character, Megan, improvised. The flirtatious encounter between Megan and Air Marshal Jon on the plane, along with various other ad-libbed dialogues in the film, added to the comedic charm. Kristen Wiig also contributed her own improvised moments, both on the plane and during the engagement party. Remarkably, both actresses received Academy Award nominations in 2012, a rare recognition for a comedy led by women.
The Hangover
“The Hangover Part II” also boasts numerous unscripted and spontaneous moments. Featuring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis as three friends who inadvertently wreak havoc during their friend’s bachelor party, the movie is renowned for being one of the most expensive comedies ever made. Galifianakis contributes physical humor, while Helms delivers deadpan comedy. The trio amusingly refers to themselves as the “wolf pack,” reminiscent of the Freudian trio.
The storyline revolves around the group waking up in the aftermath of a wild party, and their subsequent efforts to retrace their steps from the previous night in order to find their missing friend. Several memorable moments, like Stu’s impromptu song and Alan’s reaction to Stu’s grandmother’s ring, were entirely improvised. The comedy in the film escalates as the night unfolds, leading to increasingly absurd and chaotic situations.
Between Two Ferns: The Movie
The movie “Between Two Ferns: The Movie” stars Zach Galifianakis in a fictionalized version of himself, based on his popular YouTube sketch show. In this show, Galifianakis humorously poses uncomfortable questions to Hollywood celebrities while playing a conceited version of himself who ridicules and teases famous actors. The film serves as an expansion of these interviews, where Zach conducts his unconventional interviews while also attempting to salvage his public image.
This comedy is known for its hilarity, with many actors nearly breaking character as Galifianakis catches them off guard with his absurd questions. The film’s blooper reel, featuring unscripted moments of actors trying to stifle their laughter during these interviews, has gained popularity on YouTube.
Reno 911!: Miami
Reno 911!: Miami is a comedic film adaptation of the popular TV series of the same name, maintaining its signature improvisational humor and featuring its beloved characters. In the movie, the Reno police officers find themselves in Miami as they seize the chance to attend a law enforcement convention in Florida. However, their vacation takes an unexpected turn when a terrorist threat puts the city in jeopardy, prompting the officers to come together to save the day.
The film’s plot primarily serves as a backdrop for the actors to relish their comedic chemistry, much like the TV series, where their spontaneous interactions within a loosely structured storyline were a key attraction of Reno 911!.
Note:
*Shortfundly is hiring for multiple roles in Chennai. Start referring your known connections to these openings*. Check it out – https://lnkd.in/erZm6rzh
About Shortfundly
Shortfundly is an OTT marketplace platform available to share the best short films and web series through global multi-platform network. Their editorial platform enables global audience to easily discover, watch, and share unique contents anywhere on their desktop, connected TV and mobile devices.
If you are planning to release and earn on an OTT platform, learn how to distribute your short film via Shortfundly.
For publishing an advertorial article about your digital news/product launch/ short film/web series/album song on our website, drop an email at [email protected]
Hey Cinephiles! We welcome guest blogging on our platform. Do share your article with us.
Check out our Shortfundly YouTube channel for other interesting podcasts & interviews with filmmakers.
To watch unlimited premium short films & web series, Download the Shortfundly mobile application now available on Google Play Store and Apple App store.
