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: 2. Stripes (1981) Two friends join the Army on a whim and cause chaos during basic training. Why it’s great: 3. […]

These films feature chance encounters that lead to romantic entanglements, often with witty dialogue and comedic misunderstandings. 1. When Harry Met Sally… (1989) Two friends grapple with the question of whether men and women can be just friends over the course of 12 years. Why it’s great: 2. Notting Hill (1999) A famous American actress […]

Mafia comedies blend the world of organized crime with humor, often playing with gangster movie tropes for comedic effect. 1. Analyze This (1999) A mob boss seeks help from a psychiatrist to deal with panic attacks. Why it’s great: 2. Married to the Mob (1988) A mob wife tries to escape her husband’s criminal lifestyle […]

Lampoon films are satirical comedies that mock or ridicule specific targets, often exaggerating characteristics for comedic effect. 1. Airplane! (1980) This disaster movie spoof is filled with rapid-fire gags and absurd situations. Why it’s great: 2. Blazing Saddles (1974) Mel Brooks‘ satirical Western pushes the boundaries of taste and political correctness. Why it’s great: 3. […]

Horror comedies blend elements of horror with humor, often parodying horror tropes or using scary situations as a backdrop for comedy. 1. Shaun of the Dead (2004) A slacker must lead a group of survivors through a zombie apocalypse in London. Why it’s great: 2. Ghostbusters (1984) A team of eccentric parapsychologists start a ghost-catching […]

Gross-out comedies push the boundaries of taste, often featuring crude humor, bodily functions, and outrageous situations for shock value and laughs. 1. There’s Something About Mary (1998) A man hires a private detective to track down his high school crush. Why it’s great: 2. American Pie (1999) Four high school friends make a pact to […]

Fish-out-of-water comedies place characters in unfamiliar environments or situations, deriving humor from their attempts to adapt and navigate their new circumstances. 1. Coming to America (1988) An African prince travels to Queens, New York to find a wife. Why it’s great: 2. Elf (2003) A human raised as an elf at the North Pole travels […]

Farce films feature exaggerated, improbable situations, often involving mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and physical comedy. 1. A Fish Called Wanda (1988) A jewel heist goes awry when the criminals double-cross each other and become involved with a barrister. Why it’s great: 2. Noises Off (1992) This film adaptation of the stage play follows the on and […]

Family comedies aim to entertain audiences of all ages, often featuring relatable family dynamics and humor suitable for children and adults alike. 1. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) A divorced actor disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children. Why it’s great: 2. The Incredibles (2004) A family of superheroes must come out […]

Fairy tale films adapt classic stories or create new ones in the style of traditional fairy tales, often featuring magical elements and moral lessons. 1. The Princess Bride (1987) This beloved adaptation of William Goldman‘s novel combines romance, comedy, and swashbuckling adventure. Why it’s great: 2. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) Guillermo del Toro‘s dark fantasy follows […]