Best Comedies in 2025

Billy Wilder's 'Some Like It Hot' is arguably one of the greatest comedies ever made, often topping lists for its sheer brilliance and enduring appeal. The film masterfully blends slapstick, screwball humor, and romantic comedy with a daring premise for its time: two musicians (Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon) witness a mob hit and disguise themselves as women to join an all-female band. Lemmon, in particular, delivers a performance of comedic genius, perfectly capturing the absurdity and humanity of his predicament. Monroe's Sugar Kane is iconic, radiating charisma and vulnerability. The witty screenplay is filled with memorable lines and situations, while Wilder's expert direction ensures every comedic beat lands perfectly. Its impact on cinema is undeniable, and its humor remains as fresh and funny today as it was in 1959. This film excels in nearly every selection criterion, particularly Originality and Enduring Appeal.

'Monty Python and the Holy Grail' is a landmark in comedic filmmaking, showcasing the unique, absurdist genius of the Monty Python troupe. Instead of following a conventional narrative, the film presents a series of increasingly bizarre and hilarious sketches loosely connected by King Arthur's quest for the Holy Grail. Its humor is intelligent, often satirical, and consistently unpredictable, filled with iconic lines, characters, and situations that have seeped into popular culture. The film's low-budget approach and animation segments only add to its distinctive charm. It's a masterclass in comedic originality and boasts an incredibly high rewatchability factor, with fans endlessly dissecting its layered jokes. While its surrealism might not be for everyone, those who 'get it' consider it an absolute classic, a testament to its enduring appeal and impact on comedy.

Rob Reiner's 'When Harry Met Sally...' isn't just a romantic comedy; it's *the* romantic comedy against which all others are often measured. Nora Ephron's brilliant screenplay navigates the complexities of male-female friendship and love with wit, realism, and profound insight. The film's strength lies in its deeply human characters, brought to life by the unparalleled chemistry between Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. Their banter, heartfelt conversations, and the legendary diner scene are etched into cinematic history. It’s a film that asks profound questions about relationships in a consistently funny and relatable way, avoiding easy clichés. The pacing is expertly handled, allowing for both comedic highs and moments of genuine emotional depth. 'When Harry Met Sally...' remains a touchstone for its genre, demonstrating exceptional scriptwriting and performance, ensuring its enduring appeal.

The Farrelly Brothers' 'Dumb and Dumber' is a seminal work in the realm of crude, physical, and relentlessly silly comedy. Starring Jim Carrey at the peak of his physical comedy prowess and Jeff Daniels in a perfectly calibrated straight-man role, the film follows two dim-witted friends on a cross-country road trip. Its genius lies in its unwavering commitment to absurdity, delivering non-stop sight gags, shocking gross-out humor, and surprisingly endearing character interactions. While critics were initially divided, audiences embraced its unapologetic silliness, turning it into a beloved cult classic. The film's quotability and the sheer audacity of its humor have ensured its lasting legacy, making it a benchmark for 'dumb' comedies. It brilliantly executes on the promise of its title, providing endless laughter through its unique blend of performance and comedic originality.

Adam McKay and Will Ferrell's 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' became an instant cult classic and a defining comedy of the 2000s. Ferrell's portrayal of Ron Burgundy is a masterclass in clueless arrogance, supported by an equally brilliant ensemble cast including Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, and David Koechner. The film cleverly skewers the entrenched sexism and theatricality of 1970s local news through a series of increasingly absurd situations and unforgettable one-liners. Its improvisational style contributes to its spontaneous feel, making many scenes burst with unexpected humor. 'Anchorman' excels in comedic originality and ensemble chemistry, creating a world so bizarre yet familiar that it has spawned countless imitators. Its enduring appeal lies in its infectious silliness and constant stream of quotable dialogue, making it a frequent rewatch for comedy fans.

'Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story' is a prime example of a consistently funny and rewatchable sports comedy. The film pits Vince Vaughn's slacker gym owner, Peter La Fleur, against Ben Stiller's megalomaniacal health club mogul, White Goodman, in a winner-take-all dodgeball tournament. Stiller's portrayal of Goodman is legendary, creating one of comedy's most hilariously villainous characters. The ensemble cast, including Jason Bateman and Justin Long, contributes significantly to the film's charm and comedic success. 'Dodgeball' is packed with memorable lines, absurd situations, and a satisfying underdog narrative that makes it incredibly enjoyable. Its humor is broad but effectively executed, leading to widespread critical and audience acclaim. It checks boxes for strong performances, quotable dialogue, and enduring appeal as a go-to comedy for many.

Olivia Wilde's directorial debut, 'Booksmart,' is a breath of fresh air in the coming-of-age comedy genre. It follows two academically brilliant but socially awkward best friends, Amy and Molly (Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever), on their last night of high school as they try to cram four years of missed partying into one epic night. The film's strength lies in its incredibly sharp and contemporary script, which delivers laughs while also offering a genuinely heartfelt exploration of female friendship and the anxieties of growing up. Feldstein and Dever have electric chemistry, making their bond feel incredibly real and endearing. 'Booksmart' has been widely praised for its originality and for updating the high school comedy for a new generation, earning high marks for its scriptwriting, performances, and overall critical reception. It’s a smart, funny, and surprisingly poignant film that stands out as a modern comedy classic.