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Comedy films excel at lightening the weight of life’s challenges, often providing a more approachable way to address significant issues. Whether it’s the political satire of Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb,” tackling Cold War paranoia, or the exploration of para-social relationships in “Ingrid Goes West,” comedy proves to be a versatile genre for delving into complex themes. However, there are moments when we simply crave a good laugh without delving into deeper meanings. Not every film has to be an allegory or metaphor, and sometimes we just want entertainment that doesn’t touch on politics or social issues. In essence, there are times when we just want to enjoy a light-hearted comedy. The following twenty movies deliver humor without any serious undertones, providing easily accessible and entertaining laughs, regardless of their release dates.
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20 Best Comedy Movies With No Serious Undertone
Airplane! (1980)
A parody of disaster films, Airplane! follows Ted Striker, who boards a flight to win back his ex-girlfriend. The plane faces chaos when everyone falls ill from rotten fish, compelling Ted to conquer his fear and take charge. Despite seemingly serious elements, the film is a comedic masterpiece, blending slapstick, surrealism, and satire. Packed with memorable one-liners like “Don’t call me Shirley” and “Looks like I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue,” it lacks any serious tone, making it ideal for casual viewing. The cast, including Leslie Nielsen, Julie Hagerty, Robert Hays, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, delivers standout performances. Even after 40 years, critics still applaud the film, evident in its 97% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Dirty Work (1998)
Dirty Work follows childhood friends Mitch (played by Norm Macdonald) and Sam (played by Artie Lange) as they launch a revenge-for-hire business to fund a life-saving heart surgery for Sam’s father. When they are betrayed by a business executive, the duo embraces their skills to craft the ultimate revenge plan, aiming to save Sam’s father and help Mitch win the affection of a girl. Although the film initially struggled upon release, it has since gained a cult following from the ’90s era.
What sets Dirty Work apart is Norm Macdonald’s deadpan delivery and matter-of-fact comedic style, which adds a light touch to the otherwise weighty premise. The movie cleverly blends heartfelt moments with absurdity, focusing on pranks and the camaraderie between the buddies. Additionally, the inclusion of SNL alumni like Chris Farley and Adam Sandler adds a nostalgic layer, connecting the film to one of the most cherished periods of the iconic sketch comedy show.
Wrong Cops (2013)
Centered around a group of corrupt and incompetent police officers in Los Angeles, Wrong Cops weaves together multiple storylines with an ensemble cast. The officers engage in activities such as selling drugs, unjustly imprisoning a man based on his music preferences, and harassing citizens. The plot thickens when one of the officers discovers a duffle bag filled with cash in his backyard, leading the cops to scheme for the unclaimed money.
What sets Wrong Cops apart is its dark humor, taking the exploration of police corruption to absurd and over-the-top levels. The film is highly quotable and perfect for repeat viewings, offering a fast-paced experience enhanced by the energetic electronic score from director Quentin Dupieux, also known as the musical pseudonym Mr. Oizo. Comedy enthusiasts will appreciate the excellent performances by Arden Myrin, Steve Howey, Jonathan Lajoie, and Eric Wareheim.
Female Trouble (1974)
“Female Trouble” chronicles the tumultuous life of Dawn Davenport, a rebellious teenager who flees home when denied the cha-cha heels she covets. The narrative unfolds as Dawn takes on peculiar jobs and encounters a couple fascinated by her beauty and criminal tendencies. They propel Dawn into the world of fashion, where glorifying extreme criminal behavior becomes the epitome of beauty.
This film is a noteworthy inclusion in any list due to its association with John Waters, the renowned “Pope of Trash” and a key figure in the midnight movie scene in New York. Waters, known for his eccentric comedic style and influence on punk-queer culture, deliberately incorporates crass and gross elements into the film, making it an acquired taste. Fans of edgy comedy will find “Female Trouble” particularly appealing, and it features the legendary drag icon Divine, recognized by viewers of Ru Paul’s Drag Race.
Black Dynamite (2009)
“Black Dynamite” follows the story of a former CIA agent who takes justice into his own hands, cleaning the streets in response to his brother’s death and the rise of a new drug. Uncovering his brother’s connection to the CIA’s efforts against an evil organization selling heroin to orphanages, Black Dynamite declares war and rallies the community to bring down the corrupt drug operation.
What sets the film apart is its homage to Blaxploitation classics like Shaft, Foxy Brown, and Dolemite. Michael Jae White’s portrayal of Black Dynamite is a clever nod to the genre, blending homage with humor as it playfully pokes fun at its clichés. The script demonstrates a keen understanding of the genre while embracing a lighthearted and self-aware approach. Renowned critic Roger Ebert praised the film, noting that “Black Dynamite” not only captures the essence of the genre but also purposefully incorporates humor, making it a standout in its own right.
Greener Grass (2019)
“Greener Grass” stands out as a uniquely surreal and absurd portrayal of suburban life, brought to life by the creative minds of Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe, who not only directed the film but also played the lead roles. The storyline takes a peculiar turn when one of the characters’ sons transforms into a dog, and another child, influenced by the controversial show ‘Kids with Knives,’ becomes determined to wreak havoc. In the midst of this bizarre narrative, the film explores the competitive dynamics between two soccer moms, Lisa and Jill, as they strive to embody the ideal suburban housewife.
What sets “Greener Grass” apart is its skillful exaggeration of every moment, creating a whimsical atmosphere while still maintaining a connection to underlying truths about suburban existence. The film, while not the first to satirize suburban life, distinguishes itself through its unparalleled quirkiness. Critics, like Andee Tagle from NPR, have praised the movie for its portrayal of female domesticity at its most peculiar. Tagle aptly describes it as “gloriously nonsensical” yet acknowledges that beneath the absurdity, the film resonates with an eerie truth about the complexities of suburban living.
Bad Trip (2020)
Bad Trip is a unique blend of a prank show and a buddy comedy, featuring Eric Andre and Lil Rel Howery as friends on a road trip to confess love to Chris’ high school sweetheart. The twist comes with the addition of Tiffany Haddish as Bud’s criminal sister, who chases them after they steal her car. The film seamlessly combines scripted moments with hidden camera pranks. For fans of The Eric Andre Show, it follows a similar formula, resembling a mix of Jackass and Impractical Jokers. It offers a hilarious ride with awkward social interactions and a crass twist, making it perfect for those seeking dumb, entertaining fun with a loose plot.
Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (2022)
In a hilarious take on biopics, “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” takes a loosely inspired dive into the life of parody song maestro Weird Al Yankovic. From his accordion beginnings to chart-topping hits and scandalous liaisons with the elite (including a made-up romance with Madonna), the film hilariously unravels the eccentricities of Yankovic’s life.
What sets it apart is its unabashed embrace of silliness, perfectly in line with Weird Al’s persona. For those who grew up with his tunes, it’s a delightful trip down memory lane. Daniel Radcliffe steals the show with a memorable performance, showcasing his comedic prowess. The film, much like a Weird Al song, revels in absurdity, inviting viewers to switch off their brains and bask in the entertaining chaos.
Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie (2012)
Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim, known for the unconventional humor of Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!, find themselves in a financial mess after a big-budget studio movie failure. To repay their debts, they buy a failing mall, inhabited by eccentric shop owners like a toilet paper recycler, a cult leader, and a sword seller. As they strive to revive the mall, challenges pile up, putting a strain on their friendship. Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie stands out for its offbeat comedy style, appealing to those who enjoy a departure from conventional humor.
The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra (2001)
Lost Skeleton of Cadavra is a humorous parody of 1950s monster movies, centered around a group of characters on a quest for the elusive “atmospherium” element. The film captures the innocence of 50s sci-fi cinema, featuring oversized models and quirky extraterrestrial beings. Despite its occasional slow pace and cheesy dialogue, these elements contribute to the charm of emulating the B-movie era. The low-budget production, made with just $100,000, adds a charismatic touch, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew.
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Space Cop (2016)
In the sci-fi comedy “Space Cop,” a renegade cop from the year 2058, known for disregarding the rules, accidentally gets transported back to 2007 through a time portal. In his quest to return to his time, he unwittingly awakens a cryogenically frozen cop from the past. Despite their differences, the two unlikely allies join forces to thwart an impending alien invasion. The film benefits from the creators’ background in B-movies, as seen in their popular YouTube channel, Red Letter Media. With a touch of insider humor, “Space Cop” delivers memorable moments of absurdity, drawing on the team’s extensive experience with so-bad-they’re-good movies.
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
“Dumb and Dumber,” a classic ’90s comedy, follows the hilarious escapades of best friends Lloyd Christmas (Jim Carrey) and Harry Dunne (Jeff Daniels) as they embark on a road trip to return a suitcase to a woman Lloyd instantly fell in love with. Despite their constant bumbling and misfortunes, their enduring friendship helps them navigate through various challenges, including encounters with criminals seeking the suitcase.
The film’s greatness lies in its status as a quintessential lighthearted comedy, achieving significant financial success by grossing $247.3 million worldwide against a $17 million budget. Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels deliver memorable performances, infusing the characters’ stupidity with an endearing charm. While the popularity of such mindless comedies has waned over time, it’s essential to acknowledge The Farrelly Brothers for their accomplishments. Revisiting their best work, like “Dumb and Dumber,” serves as a fitting tribute to their contributions to the genre.
This is Spinal Tap (1984)
In this iconic mockumentary, the fictional English heavy metal band Spinal Tap embarks on a major tour to the United States to promote their latest album, “Smell the Glove.” Presented in a documentary style that follows the tour, the movie captures the band’s various antics, from internal conflicts and turbulent relationships to disastrous performances, all set against the backdrop of their unique history.
What sets it apart: This is Spinal Tap is a timeless comedy classic, known for its memorable humor that satirizes the supposedly glamorous rock lifestyle. The film’s brilliance is further elevated by outstanding performances, particularly from Harry Shearer, who later voiced over 20 characters in The Simpsons. The clever script concocts humorous scenarios for the overly serious figures in the realm of metal. With a 96% approval rating from critics and a 92% audience score, the film enjoys widespread acclaim and affection from viewers.
New Kids Turbo (2010)
In the aftermath of an economic downturn in their small town, five friends decide to abandon traditional work and forge their own unconventional path in life. Despite possessing minimal skills beyond a penchant for heavy drinking and partying, they unexpectedly become unlikely heroes as they navigate through life in their unique way.
What sets this film apart is its refusal to delve into serious social commentary on economic disparities, despite the initial economic crash premise. The Dutch comedy “New Kids Turbo” embraces sheer absurdity, featuring five friends who are comically inept yet remarkably self-assured. The movie appeals to those who enjoy humor centered around wild parties and drunken escapades, reminiscent of the cult classic “Fubar.” The success of “New Kids Turbo” led to a sequel, “New Kids Nitro,” both originating from a popular TV show, with the former being the preferred choice for guaranteed hilarity.
Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
“Wet Hot American Summer depicts the final days at a summer camp for teenage counselors, featuring a cast of adult comedians. The film weaves multiple stories with crass and over-the-top humor reminiscent of classic comedies like Porky’s and Meatballs. Despite its initial poor reception and a 37% Rotten Tomatoes score, the movie has developed a cult following due to its entertaining ensemble cast and unapologetically dumb approach. While critics may have disapproved of its throwback to juvenile and sex-focused comedies, fans of this style will appreciate it as a hilarious homage to the crude humor of past decades.”
Freaky Farley (2007)
“Freaky Farley” follows the story of Farley Wilder, a locally known peeping tom in a small New England town. When he encounters a bold young woman interested in learning about his peculiar ways, Farley finds the courage to confront his father and make a name for himself. The plot takes a twist when the mayor calls on Farley, along with a local ninja and a psychic, to solve a murder mystery in the town.
What sets the film apart is comedian Matt Farley’s involvement, known for his extensive music database creating personalized songs for various occasions. Alongside director Charles Roxburgh, Farley and his friends have crafted a collection of micro-budget films under the Motern Media banner. Despite its roots in the horror genre and a protagonist with unconventional tendencies, “Freaky Farley” surprises audiences with its subtle and almost innocent delivery. The film’s charm lies in its sincere love for cinema and clever writing, turning it into a comedic gem.
What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
This hilarious mockumentary revolves around a film crew documenting the lives of three vampires sharing a house in Wellington, New Zealand. The movie, featuring Jemaine Clement, Jonny Brugh, and the renowned Taika Waititi, delves into the history of each vampire, their attempts to fit into the modern world, and their unique social circle. Notably, Taika Waititi later gained global recognition for directing projects like Thor: Love and Thunder and the popular TV comedy Our Flag Means Death.
The brilliance of the film lies in the collaboration between Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, both celebrated comedy writers and performers. Clement, known for his role in the comedic music duo Flight of the Conchords, and Waititi, the creator of beloved movies and TV series, bring their comedic expertise to create a mockumentary that is incredibly witty and filled with memorable quotes. The film maintains a lighthearted tone throughout, with the occasional splash of gore for comedic effect.
BASEketball (1998)
Two childhood buddies, lacking ambition and prospects, stumble upon the creation of a novel sport called BASEketball—tailored for those lacking athleticism but skilled at hoops. The game gains immense popularity due to its accessibility and the entertaining psych-outs players engage in. However, as fame beckons, tensions rise when external interests seek to buy their team. The friends must reconcile to secure the Championship and retain ownership of The Beers team. Matt Parker and Trey Stone took on the film role amid uncertainty about the renewal of their hit show, South Park. This led to a somewhat chaotic experience as they juggled filming and animating. Fans of the early, crass, and offensive humor of South Park will find a familiar tone in this film.
The Wrong Guy (1997)
In the chaotic hustle of his daily life, Nelson Hibbert, played by Dave Foley, is striving to climb the corporate ladder. However, his world turns upside down when he stumbles upon his deceased boss. Mistakenly believing he’s the prime suspect, Nelson goes on the lam, unaware that he’s not even under suspicion. His comical attempts to evade the police inadvertently place him in the midst of the actual culprits. “The Wrong Guy” brilliantly embraces the absurdity of a comedy of errors, with Foley’s character fumbling through a series of ridiculous situations. This overlooked Canadian comedy, despite lacking a Rotten Tomatoes critic score, resonates with audiences, boasting an 84% approval rating.
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