“Dumb” comedies often feature absurd situations, slapstick humor, and characters making foolish decisions for comedic effect. 1. Dumb and Dumber (1994) Two dimwitted friends embark on a cross-country trip to return a briefcase full of money. Why it’s great: 2. Zoolander (2001) A dimwitted male model becomes involved in a plot to assassinate the Prime […]

Crime/caper comedies focus on elaborate heists or criminal schemes, often with a humorous twist or bumbling criminals. 1. The Sting (1973) Two con men attempt an elaborate scheme to swindle a mob boss in 1930s Chicago. Why it’s great: 2. Ocean’s Eleven (2001) A charismatic ex-con assembles a team to rob three Las Vegas casinos […]

Classic comedies have stood the test of time, showcasing timeless humor and often influencing subsequent generations of comedy films. 1. Some Like It Hot (1959) Two musicians disguise themselves as women to escape the mob in this Billy Wilder classic. Why it’s great: 2. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love […]

Coming of age films focus on the emotional and social growth of young protagonists as they transition from childhood to adulthood. 1. The Breakfast Club (1985) John Hughes‘ classic follows five high school students from different cliques who bond during Saturday detention. Why it’s great: 2. Stand By Me (1986) Based on a Stephen King […]

Comic criminal films focus on the humorous exploits of lawbreakers, often portraying them as likable anti-heroes or bumbling fools. 1. 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: 2. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) Guy Ritchie‘s […]

Comedy thrillers blend elements of suspense and humor, creating a unique genre that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats while making them laugh. 1. Charade (1963) This Hitchcock-inspired film stars Audrey Hepburn as a widow pursued by several men who are after her late husband’s fortune. Why it’s great: 2. The Nice Guys […]

Black comedies tackle dark or taboo subjects with humor, often using satire to comment on serious issues or human nature. 1. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) Stanley Kubrick‘s satirical take on Cold War politics and nuclear annihilation. Why it’s great: 2. Fargo (1996) The Coen Brothers’ […]

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: 2. Airplane! (1980) This disaster movie spoof is filled with rapid-fire gags and absurd situations. Why it’s great: 3. The Big Lebowski (1998) The Coen Brothers’ cult classic follows “The […]

Action comedies blend thrilling action sequences with humorous elements, often featuring unlikely heroes or comedic situations in high-stakes scenarios. 1. Hot Fuzz (2007) Edgar Wright‘s homage to action films follows a top London cop transferred to a seemingly quiet rural town. Why it’s great: 2. Rush Hour (1998) This buddy cop film pairs a motor-mouthed […]

Women in prison films, often exploitative in nature, focus on the experiences of female inmates in correctional facilities, frequently highlighting issues of power, survival, and rebellion. 1. Caged (1950) This noir-influenced drama follows a young woman’s transformation in prison. Why it’s great: 2. Orange Is the New Black (2013-2019) While a TV series, this Netflix […]