Comedy has been a beloved genre in cinema for over a century, offering audiences endless laughter and escapism. While there are timeless classics, there’s also a treasure trove of hilarious yet underrated comedy movies that haven’t received the attention they deserve. Reddit’s movie community, r/AskReddit, recently shared their picks for the funniest movies that many might have missed. Let’s dive into these hidden comedy gems!
10. ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ (1999)
Drop Dead Gorgeous IMDb Rating
Drop Dead Gorgeous Trailer
Set in a small Minnesota town, ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ is a mockumentary that delves into peculiar and deadly incidents leading up to a highly competitive beauty pageant. Despite initial underwhelming reviews, the film has gained a cult following, boasting a fantastic cast including Kirsten Dunst, Allison Janey, Ellen Barkin, Denise Richards, Kirstie Alley, and Amy Adams in her acting debut.
While ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ may not have made a significant splash upon its release, it has found a special place in the hearts of comedy aficionados. Its completely over-the-top satirical mockumentary style, combined with stellar performances, has contributed to its enduring appeal. As Reddit user Lala5789880 aptly put it, “The acting is amazing.”
9. ‘Johnny Dangerously’ (1984)
Johnny Dangerously IMDb Rating Hilarious movies
Johnny Dangerously Trailer
‘Johnny Dangerously’ is a hilarious ’80s comedy that pays homage to gangster flicks of the 1930s. Michael Keaton stars as Johnny Kelly, a man who moonlights as mobster Johnny Dangerously to support his family. The film, directed by Amy Heckerling, is a sharp and absurd delight, praised for its impressive comedy cast.
This underrated gem combines witty humor with a touch of absurdity, making it a standout in the ’80s comedy landscape. The fast-paced wit and off-kilter humor have contributed to its status as a cult classic. Reddit user wanderer3131 couldn’t help but praise the film, calling it “freaking hilarious.”
8. ‘Strange Brew’ (1983)
Strange Brew IMDb Rating underrated comedy movies
Strange Brew Trailer
‘Strange Brew’ is a simple yet endearing Canadian comedy film that helped launch Rick Moranis’ career in Hollywood. An extension of SCTV’s Bob and Doug McKenzie skit, the film loosely follows the story of Hamlet, with the two bumbling brothers landing jobs at their favorite brewery, where they uncover an evil scheme.
The film’s charm lies in its sheer ridiculousness and the chemistry between Bob (Rick Moranis) and Doug (Dave Thomas). As they attempt to save humanity while indulging in copious amounts of beer, hilarity ensues. Reddit user kwixta’s mention of ‘Strange Brew’ on the forum struck a chord with many, who responded with their favorite quotes, celebrating the film’s quirky Canadian humor.
7. ‘Kung Fu Hustle’ (2004)
Kung Fu Hustle IMDb Rating Hilarious comedy movies
Kung Fu Hustle Trailer
‘Kung Fu Hustle,’ a critically acclaimed martial arts comedy, gained a cult following but remained relatively under the radar due to its specific audience target. Directed by Stephen Chow, the film parodies martial arts movies and follows two con men entangled in a feud with kung fu masters. It offers not only hilarity but also impressive action sequences.
Coming from China, ‘Kung Fu Hustle’ became a sensation and a box office success, but its genre-specific focus meant it didn’t achieve widespread recognition. Nevertheless, those who discovered it were treated to a unique blend of humor and martial arts. Reddit user HugeAppeal2664 praised the film, noting that it’s “not just hilarious but also has very good action sequences.”
6. ‘The Nice Guys’ (2016)
The Nice Guys IMDb Rating underrated movies
The Nice Guys Trailer
As a major Hollywood comedy, ‘The Nice Guys’ may not be the most obscure film ever made, but it hasn’t become the landmark success it should have been given it was arguably the best comedy of the 2010s. Set in 1977 Los Angeles, the crime-comedy follows a private investigator and a violent enforcer investigating a missing girl linked to the death of a porn star.
‘The Nice Guys’ stands out not only for its comedy but also for its masterful storytelling and impeccable chemistry between stars Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe. It blends humor and neo-noir mystery elements seamlessly, resulting in a comedic gem that deserves more recognition. Reddit user SuperArppis expressed their surprise at the film’s underwhelming box office performance, highlighting its consistent humor and effective detective storyline.
5. ‘Dirty Work’ (1998)
Dirty Work IMDb Rating according to reddit
Dirty Work Trailer
‘Dirty Work’ is an off-kilter buddy film filled with black comedy and starring Norm McDonald and Artie Lange. It follows two friends who start a revenge-for-hire business to cover medical expenses. While admittedly juvenile, Norm McDonald’s performance has garnered a cult following, making ‘Dirty Work’ a comedy classic for many.
Norm McDonald’s irreverent humor shines in ‘Dirty Work,’ making it a must-watch for fans of his comedy. Despite initial mixed reviews, the film has found a special place in the hearts of comedy enthusiasts. Reddit user bastardo1313 simply expressed, “Dirty Work. I miss Norm,” a sentiment shared by many who appreciate the film’s comedic charm.
4. ‘Palm Springs’ (2020)
Palm Springs IMDb Rating funny movies
Palm Springs Trailer
‘Palm Springs,’ a romantic comedy set in a time loop, draws inspiration from ‘Groundhog Day’ while charting its own unique path. Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti star as two wedding guests trapped in a temporal loop, forming an extraordinary connection as they relive the same day repeatedly. One of the most hilarious movies.
Despite facing challenges in its cinematic release due to the pandemic, ‘Palm Springs’ garnered acclaim for its innovative take on the time-loop concept. Reddit user Patricio_Guapo commended the film’s distinctive approach, noting that while it shares a fundamental premise with ‘Groundhog Day,’ it veers in an entirely new direction. This departure from the expected conventions elevates it to the status of a modern comedy hidden gem.
3. ‘Rat Race’ (2001)
Rat Race IMDb Rating Reddit movies
Rat Race Trailer
It is frankly staggering that a film stacked with talent like Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese, Whoopi Goldberg, Seth Green, and Cuba Gooding Jr., among many others, went almost completely unrecognized. ‘Rat Race’ did just that, though, as negative critical reviews and competition with American Pie 2 and Rush Hour 2 undermined its comedic punch at the time and undoubtedly contributed to the film being overlooked.
The film’s premise revolves around a Las Vegas casino magnate who organizes a race for people to find $2 million in a storage locker in New Mexico. As contestants compete for the prize, hilarious situations and chaotic moments ensue, making ‘Rat Race’ a comedic rollercoaster. It’s one of the most funny movies. Reddit user benzilla04’s nomination of the film garnered significant attention, with many chiming in to celebrate iconic scenes like the Hitler car sequence.
2. ‘Tucker & Dale vs. Evil’ (2010)
Tucker & Dale vs. Evil IMDb Rating
Tucker & Dale vs. Evil Trailer
‘Tucker & Dale vs. Evil’ masterfully combines slasher horror elements with uproarious comedy. The storyline revolves around two brothers who embark on a peaceful vacation at a remote cabin, only for their plans to go awry when a group of vacationing teenagers misinterpret them as dangerous killers. In their panicked attempts to escape what they believe to be a deadly threat, the teenagers inadvertently find themselves in hilariously perilous situations, turning traditional horror clichés into comedic triumphs.
The film employs a clever blend of humor, parody, and a fresh take on familiar horror tropes, resulting in a cinematic experience that resonated with both critics and general audiences alike. It’s one of the most hilarious comedy movies. Among Reddit users, there’s a consensus that ‘Tucker & Dale vs. Evil’ is a hidden comedy gem, deserving of greater recognition, as echoed by the sentiments shared by user TreeShoeBeating and others on the subreddit.
1. ‘Top Secret!’ (1984)
Top Secret IMDb Rating
Top Secret Trailer
Starring Val Kilmer in his cinematic debut, ‘Top Secret!’ is an ambitious musical comedy that lampoons everything from Elvis Presley’s movies to old-timey war and spy films. The plot follows an American rock star as he performs in East Germany, falls in love with a resistance fighter, and becomes embroiled in the underground movement’s plot to rescue his lover’s scientist father from the Germans who plan on using him to create a dangerous weapon.
As frenetic as it is wild, ‘Top Secret!’ excels as a genuinely hilarious spoof movie. While it was a moderate hit for the time, it sadly has not endured in the public eye. Nevertheless, many Redditors agreed with the user Pristine_Solid9620 about its unappreciated brilliance.
These 10 comedy gems may not have received the widespread recognition they deserve, but they have left an indelible mark on those who have discovered them. From mockumentaries to absurd ’80s comedies, these films offer a comedic experience like no other. If you’re in the mood for laughter and hidden cinematic treasures, these movies should be on your watchlist. Don’t miss the chance to explore the unique humor and wit that these hidden comedy gems have to offer.
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