Best Military Comedies
Military comedies find humor in the structure, absurdities, and characters within military life and warfare.
1. MAS*H (1970)
Army surgeons use humor to cope with the horrors of the Korean War.
Why it’s great:
- Blend of dark humor with anti-war sentiment
- Strong ensemble cast led by Donald Sutherland and Elliott Gould
- Influential on subsequent war comedies and TV series
2. Stripes (1981)
Two friends join the Army on a whim and cause chaos during basic training.
Why it’s great:
- Bill Murray‘s irreverent performance
- Memorable supporting characters and quotable lines
- Blend of slapstick and anti-authority humor
3. Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)
A radio DJ is sent to Vietnam to bring humor to the troops.
Why it’s great:
- Robin Williams‘ tour-de-force performance, including improvised radio broadcasts
- Balance of comedy with the realities of war
- Exploration of the power of humor in difficult circumstances
4. Tropic Thunder (2008)
A group of actors filming a Vietnam War movie find themselves in a real conflict.
Why it’s great:
- Satirical take on Hollywood and method acting
- Memorable performances, especially Robert Downey Jr.’s controversial role
- Blend of action-comedy with industry satire
5. Private Benjamin (1980)
A spoiled woman joins the Army after her husband dies on their wedding night.
Why it’s great:
- Goldie Hawn‘s charming performance as she transitions from pampered civilian to soldier
- Fish-out-of-water humor as Benjamin adjusts to military life
- Exploration of female empowerment themes.