Are you tired of scrolling through the same old comedy movies on your streaming services? It’s easy to feel like you’ve watched all the good ones. But there’s a treasure trove of hilarious films out there that haven’t gotten the love they deserve.
These hidden gems can make your movie nights way more entertaining.
In this list, we’re shining a light on 30 underrated comedies from over the years. From laugh-out-loud adventures to quirky tales with heart, these flicks have flown under the radar for too many movie fans.
Whether you’re into classic humor or modern satire, there’s something here for everyone. Ready to find your next favorite movie? Keep reading!
Exploring the Comedy Genre
Comedy films are like a good laugh with friends; they make everything better. They come in all shapes and sizes, from slapstick that makes you roll on the floor to witty lines that have you chuckling under your breath.
Stars like Will Ferrell and Melissa McCarthy turn into our best pals, making us laugh with their crazy antics. Directors like Adam McKay show us the funny side of life, even when things seem rough.
These movies take us on wild rides through odd adventures or cozy tales close to home.
Life is better when you’re laughing.
From silent classics where Charlie Chaplin made us laugh without saying a word to modern stories filled with jokes about today’s world, comedy has something for everyone. Each film is a slice of joy, showing life’s funny moments in ways we might not expect.
Next up, let’s dive into some underrated laughs that deserve more spotlight.
Top Underrated Comedies to Watch in 2024
Get ready for a laugh! We’ve dug deep to find comedy treasures that flew under the radar. From movies that tickle your funny bone with high school antics in “Booksmart” to wild adventures like “Hunt for the Wilderpeople”, there’s so much to enjoy.
These films might not have made big splashes when they first came out, but trust us—they’re golden. With humor, heart, and a bit of silliness, these picks are perfect for movie lovers looking for some hidden gems.
So grab some popcorn and discover your next favorite comedy!
“Booksmart” (2019): A Modern Take on High School Comedy
“Booksmart” (2019) shakes up the high school comedy scene. This film shows two smart girls who find out they missed out on fun times by always hitting the books. They decide to catch up on all the fun in one night before graduation.
Critics and fans love it for its fresh story and great acting. It’s funny, bold, and a bit wild.
Next up is “Hot Rod” (2007), where stunts mix with laughs and family drama.
“Hot Rod” (2007): Stunts, Laughs, and Family Drama
“Hot Rod” (2007) is a movie full of surprising stunts, big laughs, and heartfelt family moments. It takes you on a wild ride with Rod Kimble, a stuntman with big dreams but not much skill.
He plans an epic jump to raise money for his stepdad’s surgery—so he can beat him in a fight fair and square. Yes, it’s as funny as it sounds.
Hot Rod is where silliness meets heart—a rare combo.
The film does more than just make you laugh; it touches your heart. With its mix of action spoofs and real family issues, “Hot Rod” isn’t like other comedies. It stands out by mixing the ridiculous with the touching in ways that catch you off guard.
If you’re into movies that bring both action figures and tissues into play, this one’s for you.
“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016): An Adventure in the Wild
Moving from the quirky family drama of “Hot Rod” to the lush greenery of New Zealand in “Hunt for the Wilderpeople,” we find a tale that tugs at both heartstrings and funny bones. This movie, which Taika Waititi directed, does comedy and adventure in a unique way.
It tells the story of a young boy and his foster uncle who end up on the run in the wilds, turning into the targets of a massive search party. Their journey is not just about dodging authorities; it’s also about forming an unlikely bond amidst hilarious mishaps.
The beauty of New Zealand serves as more than just a backdrop; it’s almost like another character, adding depth to our duo’s escapades. “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” stands out because it balances humor with moments that hit close to home.
This movie doesn’t just make you laugh; it makes you feel part of something larger—an adventure where every turn could lead to either trouble or triumph. So, if you’re up for laughs blended with breathtaking views and heartwarming tales, this underrated gem deserves your attention.
“Support the Girls” (2018): Life Behind the Bar
After a wild adventure through the forests of “Hunt for the Wilderpeople,” we slide into a different kind of jungle: the bustling, chaotic world that is “Support the Girls.” This hidden gem takes us behind the scenes at a sports pub.
Regina Hall shines as the manager who keeps everything running smoothly. She juggles friendships, work drama, and personal challenges with humor and heart.
“Support the Girls” stands out for its real-life laughs and touching moments. It tells a big story about day-to-day life in places we often overlook. The film is celebrated for showing strong women making it through tough days with grace and laughter.
Give this comedy a watch to see life from their side of the bar; you’ll be glad you did!
“Midnight Run” (1988): The Ultimate Bounty Hunter Road Trip
Shifting gears from bar life to a wild chase across the country, “Midnight Run” takes you on a ride unlike any other. This film pairs up Robert De Niro, a grumpy bounty hunter, with Charles Grodin, an accountant who has stolen millions.
Their journey becomes a race against time, filled with unexpected friendships and crazy adventures.
This isn’t just a trip across the country; it’s a road to self-discovery.
Along the way, they meet all sorts of folks—cops, con artists, and even rival hunters—trying to capture Grodin first. The magic comes not just from laughter but from seeing two very different people learn about each other.
Fun fact: despite their clashes on screen, De Niro and Grodin pull off one of comedy’s most memorable duos. It’s this mix of sharp wit and heartwarming moments that makes “Midnight Run” stand out as an underrated gem in comedy history.
“Playtime” (1967): A Visual Comedy Masterpiece
“Playtime” (1967) brings a world where humor jumps from every corner. This movie turns simple sights, like buildings and streets, into jokes without even saying a word. Its magic lies in showing us laughter through things we see, not just hear.
The man behind the camera, Jacques Tati, uses clever tricks to make us giggle and wonder how he thought of that!
This film stands out because it’s different from other laughs you find at the movies. “Playtime” doesn’t just tell jokes; it makes the whole city one big punchline with its visual gags.
Imagine watching scenes so playful you can’t help but smile at their creativity. It’s like finding hidden treasures in what looks plain on the surface. This is why many say “Playtime” deserves more attention—for being brave in comedy and leaving a mark that still feels fresh today.
“Swingers” (1996) takes us through the bright lights of L.A.’s social spots. This gem shines with its sharp wit and spot-on look at young adults trying to make it big. The movie, a favorite pick by Martin Paez-Sanchez, tells the story of friends diving into the buzzing nightlife.
They’re all looking for love or their next big break. It’s funny because it shows real struggles in a city known for dreams and heartbreak.
This comedy stands out for its clever use of hidden cameras to catch raw moments. It feels like you’re right there with them, laughing at their jokes and feeling their awkward pains.
Fans and critics both praised “Swingers” for showing a different side of L.A., away from the usual glitz. It’s not just laughs; it’s about chasing what you want, even when things get tough.
“Get Duked!” (2019): A Hilarious Wilderness Journey
“Get Duked!” is a movie that makes you laugh hard. It tells the story of four boys who go on a trip in the wilderness. They think it will be just a fun adventure, but things get really wild and funny.
Ninian Doff directed this film. He did a great job making us laugh and enjoy the ride.
The cast is amazing, and their acting brings more laughs. This film got lots of love from people watching at home on Netflix. If you like comedy movies with lots of jokes, this one’s for you.
A journey full of laughs – ‘Get Duked!’ turns a wilderness adventure into comedy gold.
“Safety Last!” (1923): Silent Film Humor
From wild outdoor misadventures in “Get Duked!” we move back in time to a classic that still makes folks laugh today. “Safety Last!” from 1923 is a silent movie that’s all about laughs and surprises.
Imagine seeing someone hanging from a clock high up on a building! This real heart-stopper is what puts Harold Lloyd, the star, into comedy history books. He did his own stunts, which were both funny and thrilling.
This film has more than just one man’s dangerous climb up a building for laughs. It uses smart visual jokes and slapstick like no other movie from its time. Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, it shows us that comedy doesn’t need words to be hilarious or tell a good story.
So, get ready for some old-school fun with “Safety Last!”. It proves true humor never gets old.
“The Trip” (2011): Gastronomy and Gags
“The Trip” takes viewers on a hilarious journey with two friends who love food and making jokes. They travel through beautiful places, eating in fancy restaurants. While they eat lots of amazing dishes, they also make each other laugh non-stop.
Their adventure is full of funny moments that keep you smiling.
This movie shows off some incredible places to visit and will make you wish for a food-filled road trip of your own. The stars’ back-and-forth banter feels real and adds to the charm of their travels.
“The Trip” is perfect for anyone who enjoys laughter, good eats, and stunning views all rolled into one story.
“The Great Dictator” (1940): Chaplin’s Political Satire
Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator” is a comedy that pokes fun at serious issues. Chaplin acts as a funny dictator, making people laugh while showing the bad side of dictators.
This movie came out in 1940 and was bold for its time. It mixes silliness with smart jokes about politics.
People still watch “The Great Dictator” because it’s funny and makes you think. It stands out among comedies for having both laughs and a message. If you enjoy watching movies that are both amusing and clever, this one is worth your time.
“To Be or Not to Be” (1942): A War-Time Comedy
“To Be or Not to Be” (1942) is a hidden gem in the world of comedies. Set during World War II, this film mixes humor with serious themes. The story follows a group of actors in Poland who use their skills to fool the Nazis.
With Carole Lombard and Jack Benny in the lead roles, Ernst Lubitsch’s film is a mix of comedy and drama that gets you thinking.
The most wasted day of all is that on which we have not laughed.
Critics back then didn’t give it much love, but today, it stands out for its clever storytelling and witty dialogue. It shows us how comedy can shine light on dark times, reminding us why we need to laugh more often.
“Top Secret!” (1984): Espionage and Absurdity
“Top Secret!” (1984) is a comedy movie that mixes spy stories with silly jokes. It’s like watching a cartoon, but with real actors doing funny things. The people who made this film—the same ones behind “Airplane!” and “The Naked”Gun”—know how to make you laugh until your sides hurt.
They use dumb puns, silly songs, and even cows wearing boots to get those laughs.
In this movie, an American rock star finds himself in the middle of a Cold War mess in East Germany. He has to deal with secret agents, weird scientists, and massive Swedish booksellers.
It sounds crazy because it is! This film does not play by the rules of normal spy movies. Instead, it throws out all seriousness for slapstick humor and over-the-top gags that will surprise you at every turn.
“A Matter of Life and Death” (1946): Romance and Fantasy
“A Matter of Life and Death” (1946) is a film that mixes love with fantasy in a way you don’t see much. It tells the story of a pilot who survives a crash and must argue for his life in a heavenly court.
This movie stands out because it blends serious themes with light-hearted moments, making it both touching and amusing. The visuals are stunning for its time, using color to separate earth from the afterlife.
The actors bring depth to their roles, making you care about what happens next. This gem has romance that feels real and fantasy elements that spark the imagination. It’s not just another old movie; it’s an experience that sticks with you, blending various storytelling methods to keep things interesting.
Movie lovers looking for something different will find this film both entertaining and thought-provoking.
“Step Brothers” (2008): A Tale of Two Adult Slackers
“Step Brothers” stars Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly as two lazy men who still live with their parents. Their life take a funny turn when their mom and dad get married, making them stepbrothers.
The movie is filled with jokes, pranks, and silly fights that make you laugh out loud. In a tale about family, dreams, and finding your way, Adam McKay’s comedy highlights the excellent acting abilities of Ferrell and Reilly.
This film stands out because it’s not just about laughs; it also has heart. As these two grown-ups act like kids, they learn important lessons about life and themselves. It’s one of those movies that gets better every time you watch it.
So if you love comedies with a bit of silliness and lots of fun moments, “Step Brothers” is perfect for you.
“Eurovision” (2020): The Dream of Music Competition
“Eurovision” (2020) brings the big stage of the Eurovision Song Contest to your screen but with a twist. It’s packed with fun, songs, and a bit of heart. This movie tells the story of musicians who have one big dream: to win at Eurovision.
They face funny problems and meet quirky people on their journey. Fans and critics liked this film for its laughs and sweet story after it came out on Netflix.
Next up, we take a trip back in time with “Sherlock Jr.” (1924). Here, we explore an early detective tale mixed with laughter in a world where dreams come true in the most unexpected ways.
“Sherlock Jr.” (1924): A Detective in Dreamland
Moving on from the dreamy tunes of “Eurovision” (2020), we shift gears to a classic: “Sherlock Jr.” This film is like a time machine to 1924. Buster Keaton directs and stars in this treasure.
He plays a movie projector operator who dreams big—he wants to be a detective. And guess what? In his dream, he gets to live out that adventure.
This silent comedy didn’t make waves at the box office when it first came out. Yet, over time, people found it and loved it. Now, many say it’s a gem of silent cinema comedy. It’s clever with its tricks and effects that make you think, “How did they do that?” So if you love movies where the hero goes on wild rides and figures things out in cool ways, “Sherlock Jr.” should be next on your list!
“Mr. Hulot’s Holiday” (1953): A Vacation of Mishaps
After exploring the dreamy world of “Sherlock Jr.,” we land in the comical chaos of “Mr. Hulot’s Holiday.” This film takes us on a vacation where everything that can go wrong does, but in the most hilarious ways.
Jacques Tati directs and stars as Mr. Hulot, a man whose simple seaside trip turns into a series of slapstick disasters. The movie shines with clever visual jokes that make you laugh without needing words.
This comedy gem didn’t get much fame when it first came out, but its charm and timeless humor have won hearts over time. It stands out for its simplicity and proves you don’t need fancy effects to create laughter—just a well-meaning guy like Mr.
Hulot stumbling through his holiday adventures. It’s the kind of film that reminds us that joy can be found in life’s mishaps, making “Mr. Hulot’s Holiday” a must-watch for anyone who loves to laugh at the quirky side of life’s unplanned moments.
“Kind Hearts and Coronets” (1949): A Darkly Comic Revenge
“Kind Hearts and Coronets” is a movie from 1949 that many people have missed, but it’s a real gem. It tells the story of a man who wants to get back at his rich family for turning their backs on him.
To do this, he comes up with a sneaky plan to take out his relatives one by one. This film mixes dark humor with smart storytelling in a way that keeps you hooked.
It’s set in England and gives us a funny peek at high-society life back then. The main character uses clever tricks and disguises to achieve his goals, making us laugh while we wonder what he’ll do next.
Critics love this movie because it’s so well done and different from most comedies we see today. So, if you enjoy movies that mix laughter with some darkness, make sure to check this one out.
“In Bruges” (2008): Hitmen and Redemption
“In Bruges” is a laugh-packed film that tells the story of two hitmen hiding in Belgium. It stands out because it mixes dark jokes with big feelings like guilt and finding purpose.
The stars, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, bring their characters to life in ways that stick with you. Ralph Fiennes, who plays their boss, sends them on this unexpected journey full of surprises.
This movie got thumbs up from people who watch films and those who write about them for its different way of telling a story. It’s not just funny; it makes you think and feel, too.
Next up is “What’s Up, Doc?” ready to tickle your funny bone even more!
“What’s Up, Doc?” (1972): A Screwball Comedy Classic
Shifting gears from the gritty tales of “In Bruges”, we move to a movie bursting with laughs and chaos. “What’s Up, Doc?” takes us on a wild ride through screwball comedy at its best.
Imagine running around, full of energy, in scenes that keep you laughing out loud. This film is like a hidden treasure in the world of funny movies; not everyone knows about it, but they should.
This movie throws back to the humor style of the 1930s and 1940s but adds its own twist. It’s all about mix-ups and crazy chases, with characters that make you shake your head and smile at the same time.
People have come to love this film over the years because it never gets old, no matter how many times you watch it. If you like movies where everything goes bonkers in the most hilarious ways, this one’s definitely for you.
“Waiting for Guffman” (1996): Small-Town Theatrical Dreams
“Waiting for Guffman” is a 1996 film that tells the funny story of people in Blaine, Missouri. They are getting ready for a big show to celebrate their town’s 150th birthday. The movie didn’t make a lot of money when it first came out.
Yet, over time, lots of people began to love it for its smart and unusual jokes. You’ll see actors like Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy bring quirky characters to life with great humor.
This comedy shows how funny and odd community theater can be. People in the movie have big dreams about putting on the best show ever. Even if they live in a small place, their hopes are huge.
After hearing about “Waiting for Guffman,” you might want to watch other underappreciated comedies that will make you laugh just as much. Next up: “Hot Fuzz.”.
“Hot Fuzz” (2007): Action and Laughter in a Small Town
“Hot Fuzz” (2007) is a movie where action meets lots of laughs in a small town. In a setting where things start to get strangely out of control, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost play two police officers under Edgar Wright’s direction.
This film has everything: mystery, chases, and jokes that will make you laugh out loud. Fans love it so much that it’s become a classic with a large group of followers.
This flick stands out because it mixes fun with thrilling scenes in ways not many movies do. Set in a quiet area, the story follows as things take wild turns, proving even small towns have big secrets.
Moving on from “Hot Fuzz”, let’s get ready for more surprises with the next comedy gem on our list.
“Forgetting Sarah Marshall” (2008): A Romantic Comedy with Heart
“Forgetting Sarah Marshall” is a movie that makes you laugh and feel all warm inside. It stars Kristen Bell, Jason Segel, Paul Rudd, and Mila Kunis. These actors bring life to a story about love, breakups, and finding yourself again.
The film did really well with audiences and critics alike. Over 300,000 people voted for it on IMDb, showing just how much they enjoyed it.
This film takes us on a journey with Jason Segel’s character, who tries to get over his ex-girlfriend by going on vacation. There, he meets new friends and learns more about what he wants in life.
What’s special is how the movie mixes funny moments with real feelings. With Nicholas Stoller directing this show of laughter and love lessons learned the hard way—plus making $63 million at the box office—it shows that sometimes comedy can hit right in the feels too.
“Rushmore” (1998): The Eccentricities of Youth
From a love story with heart, we shift gears to the quirks of being young with “Rushmore.” This film shines because of its unique take on adolescence. Wes Anderson directs it, and you can see his special style all over it.
Jason Schwartzman plays a quirky teen who develops feelings for Olivia Williams’s teacher in the movie. Bill Murray adds to the fun as a sad but funny rich guy.
“Rushmore” is more than just laughs; it’s about dreams, growing up, and dealing with life in your own way. It shows how being different is what makes us special. You’ll find yourself rooting for these characters, even when they make mistakes.
So, if you’re into movies that aren’t just about jokes but also have heart and uniqueness, give “Rushmore” a watch.
“The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” (1994): A Road Trip of Self-Discovery
“The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” tells a fun story about three drag performers who hit the road in an old bus. They head across Australia and end up stuck in a tiny place when their ride breaks down.
It’s cool because, back then, movies hardly ever showed LGBTQ+ folks in a big way. Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce, and Terence Stamp are amazing as they show us laughter, drama, and everything in between.
This movie also has great music that lots of people love. It talks about finding out who you are, being okay with it, and accepting others too. It’s funny but also makes you think and feel good after watching.
Plus, seeing how these characters face their problems can teach us all something about courage and friendship. If you’re into movies that mix comedy with deep thoughts on life, this one’s for you! Next up is “The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain”.
“The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain” (1995): A Quaint Village’s Big Story
This movie tells the funny tale of an English map maker who arrives in a small Welsh town. He has to break the news that their beloved mountain is just a hill. The townsfolk, not taking this lightly, come up with a plan to make their hill into a mountain again.
The cast includes Hugh Grant, Tara Fitzgerald, and others who bring laughter and charm to this adventure.
With only 18,686 people voting for it and earnings of $10.90 million, this film might not have caught your eye yet. But here’s why it should: the story mixes humor with determination as the villagers tackle seemingly impossible odds to protect their pride.
It’s one of those comedies that wraps you up in its world, where maps aren’t just tools but symbols of hope and challenge. So if you’re ready for laughs mixed with heartwarming moments, give this underrated comedy gem a watch.
“Liar Liar” (1997): The Consequences of Total Honesty
“Liar Liar” stands out in the sea of comedies. Jim Carrey plays a lawyer who can’t lie for 24 hours because of his son’s birthday wish. Imagine that! A lawyer who always tells the truth.
This movie takes you on a wild ride through his day, from court cases to personal life chaos. It’s hilarious to see him try to navigate life without lies.
Fans and critics love this film for its humor and unique story. Carrey is at his best, making faces and falling over things in ways only he can. “Liar Liar” shows us how messy but funny total honesty can be in real life.
It’s definitely a must-see for those looking for laughs with a bit of heart thrown in too.
“The Addams Family” (1991): A Gothic Family Comedy
“The Addams Family” is a movie that mixes spooky with funny in a special way. Barry Sonnenfeld directed it, and it stars famous people like Anjelica Huston and Raul Julia. The movie tells the story of con artists trying to trick a strange family by using someone pretending to be their long-lost uncle.
Its dark jokes and odd look at the Addams family made many people love it. Over time, this film has gathered fans who see it as a top pick in dark comedies.
This comedy stands out because it’s not just about laughs; it brings gothic vibes into play. With unique characters living in an unusual mansion, every moment is filled with surprises.
Whether dealing with family troubles or facing tricky outsiders, they stick together, showing what makes them different also makes them strong. This blend of eerie charm and humor has made “The Addams Family” a must-see for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary in comedies.
“HouseSitter” (1992): Deception and Romance
“HouseSitter” grabs your attention with a quirky story of mistakes and false love. Goldie Hawn acts as Steve Martin’s pretend wife, creating a mix-up that leads to laughter and unexpected feelings.
They find themselves tangled in a web of lies, making us laugh at every turn. Their acting brings the movie to life, showing off their talent for comedy.
The movie did well, earning $58.50 million and getting praise for being original and funny. It stands out because it mixes humor with soft-hearted moments brilliantly. Next up, let’s talk about “The Addams Family.”.
Conclusion
So, you’ve got a list of 30 funny movies that many people don’t talk about much. These films might make you laugh, think, and maybe even cry a little. They come from all over the world and from different times.
Some are new; some are old. But they all have one thing in common: they’re really good at making us smile. So grab some popcorn, find these movies online or on DVD, and get ready for a good time.
Who knows? You might just find your new favorite comedy among them!
