The Best 20 Comedy Hollywood Movies

The Best 20 Comedy Hollywood Movies 

Comedy has always been an integral part of Hollywood. From slapstick antics to witty dialogues, comedy movies have delighted audiences for decades. Below is a curated list of some of the best comedy movies ever produced, along with details about their directors, lead actors, and revenue generated. Let’s dive into this laugh-filled journey through cinematic history.

                         

1. Some Like It Hot (1959)

• Director: Billy Wilder
• Lead Actors: Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon
• Revenue Generated: $40.7 million (adjusted for inflation: over $400 million)

This classic comedy revolves around two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape from gangsters. The film's clever writing and performances made it a timeless masterpiece. It’s often regarded as one of the funniest movies ever made.

 

2. Airplane! (1980)

• Directors: Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, Jerry Zucker
• Lead Actors: Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Leslie Nielsen
• Revenue Generated: $158 million

A parody of disaster movies, Airplane! brought absurd humor and a string of iconic one-liners to the big screen. Leslie Nielsen’s deadpan delivery became legendary.

 

3. The Pink Panther (1963)

• Director: Blake Edwards
• Lead Actor: Peter Sellers
• Revenue Generated: $10.9 million (adjusted for inflation: approximately $100 million)

Peter Sellers’ portrayal of the bumbling Inspector Clouseau became an iconic character in film history. The film’s mix of slapstick and sophisticated humor ensured its place among the greats.

 

4. Ghostbusters (1984)

• Director: Ivan Reitman
• Lead Actors: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Sigourney Weaver
• Revenue Generated: $295 million

This supernatural comedy about a group of eccentric scientists turned ghost hunters captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The memorable theme song and witty performances made it a pop culture phenomenon.

 

5. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

• Director: Chris Columbus
• Lead Actor: Robin Williams
• Revenue Generated: $441.3 million

Robin Williams’s performance as a father who disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children is both heartwarming and hilarious. This film showcased Williams’ incredible comedic and dramatic range.

 

6. The Big Lebowski (1998)

• Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
• Lead Actors: Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore
• Revenue Generated: $46.7 million

A cult classic, The Big Lebowski tells the quirky tale of "The Dude," a laid-back slacker who gets entangled in a bizarre kidnapping plot. The Coen Brothers’ sharp wit and unique storytelling shine throughout.

 

7. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

• Director: Adam McKay
• Lead Actors: Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Christina Applegate
• Revenue Generated: $90.6 million

Will Ferrell’s portrayal of an eccentric news anchor in the 1970s is both ridiculous and charming. This satire of the news industry has become a favorite among comedy lovers.

 

8. Bridesmaids (2011)

• Director: Paul Feig
• Lead Actors: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy
• Revenue Generated: $288.4 million

Breaking stereotypes about women in comedy, Bridesmaids became a milestone in Hollywood. Melissa McCarthy’s standout performance earned her an Academy Award nomination.

 

9. The Hangover (2009)

• Director: Todd Phillips
• Lead Actors: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis
• Revenue Generated: $469.3 million

This chaotic comedy about a bachelor party gone wrong became an instant hit. The trio’s antics and Zach Galifianakis’ eccentric character made the movie unforgettable.

 

10. Superbad (2007)

• Director: Greg Mottola
• Lead Actors: Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
• Revenue Generated: $170.8 million

A coming-of-age comedy, Superbad resonated with audiences for its authentic portrayal of teenage life. Its humor, heart, and memorable characters made it a modern classic.

 

11. Dumb and Dumber (1994)

• Directors: Peter Farrelly, Bobby Farrelly
• Lead Actors: Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels
• Revenue Generated: $247.3 million

Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels’s over-the-top performances as two dim-witted friends on a cross-country trip left audiences in splits. The Farrelly Brothers’ knack for physical comedy is on full display.

 

12. Groundhog Day (1993)

• Director: Harold Ramis
• Lead Actor: Bill Murray
• Revenue Generated: $105 million

A unique blend of comedy and philosophical musings, Groundhog Day follows a weatherman stuck in a time loop. Bill Murray’s sardonic humor drives this ingenious film.

 

13. Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)

• Director: Larry Charles
• Lead Actor: Sacha Baron Cohen
• Revenue Generated: $262.6 million

Sacha Baron Cohen’s mockumentary-style comedy shocked and entertained audiences with its outrageous humor and biting social commentary.

 

14. Shrek (2001)

• Directors: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
• Lead Voice Actors: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
• Revenue Generated: $491.8 million

This animated fairy tale parody appealed to both kids and adults with its clever jokes and memorable characters. Eddie Murphy’s Donkey stole the show.

 

15. Tropic Thunder (2008)

• Director: Ben Stiller
• Lead Actors: Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black
• Revenue Generated: $195.7 million

A satirical take on Hollywood’s film industry, Tropic Thunder features stellar performances, especially Robert Downey Jr.’s controversial but critically acclaimed role.

 

16. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

• Director: John Hughes
• Lead Actor: Matthew Broderick
• Revenue Generated: $70.1 million

This iconic teen comedy follows Ferris Bueller as he skips school for a day of adventure. John Hughes’s heartfelt storytelling paired with witty humor makes this a perennial favorite.

 

17. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

• Director: Joel Zwick
• Lead Actors: Nia Vardalos, John Corbett
• Revenue Generated: $368.7 million

A charming rom-com about cultural differences and family dynamics, this indie hit became a surprise box office success.

 

18. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)

• Directors: Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones
• Lead Actors: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle
• Revenue Generated: $5 million (adjusted for inflation: approximately $25 million)

This absurd take on the Arthurian legend is a cult classic. Its clever and surreal humor has influenced countless comedians and filmmakers.

 

19. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

• Director: Wes Anderson
• Lead Actors: Ralph Fiennes, Tony Revolori, Adrien Brody
• Revenue Generated: $172.9 million

Known for its quirky storytelling and visually stunning cinematography, this comedy features Ralph Fiennes in a standout comedic role.

 

20. Mean Girls (2004)

• Director: Mark Waters
• Lead Actors: Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tina Fey
• Revenue Generated: $130 million

This high school comedy, written by Tina Fey, combines sharp humor with relatable teenage experiences. Its witty dialogue has cemented its place as a cultural touchstone.

 

These films represent the evolution of comedy in Hollywood, showcasing different styles and eras. Each movie has contributed to the genre’s legacy, proving that laughter truly is universal. Whether you prefer slapstick, satire, or heartfelt humor, there’s something here for everyone.