Best Anarchic Comedies
1. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
This British comedy troupe’s take on Arthurian legend is a masterclass in absurdist humor.
Why it’s great:
- Endlessly quotable dialogue
- Clever subversion of historical epics and legends
- Blend of highbrow and lowbrow humor
2. Airplane! (1980)
This disaster movie spoof is filled with rapid-fire gags and absurd situations.
Why it’s great:
- Relentless pace of jokes and visual gags
- Clever wordplay and puns
- Deadpan performances in ridiculous scenarios
3. The Big Lebowski (1998)
The Coen Brothers’ cult classic follows “The Dude” as he gets caught up in a bizarre kidnapping plot.
Why it’s great:
- Jeff Bridges‘ iconic performance as The Dude
- Surreal dream sequences and visual gags
- Quotable dialogue and memorable characters
4. Blazing Saddles (1974)
Mel Brooks‘ satirical Western pushes the boundaries of taste and political correctness.
Why it’s great:
- Biting satire of racism and Western film tropes
- Fourth-wall-breaking humor
- Stellar comedic performances, especially by Gene Wilder
5. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Will Ferrell stars as a 1970s news anchor dealing with the arrival of an ambitious female reporter.
Why it’s great:
- Absurdist take on 1970s culture and gender politics
- Quotable dialogue and memorable characters
- Over-the-top performances from a strong comedic cast.