In terms of prestige, comedy films are usually last on the totem pole; they never seem to receive the praise and attention they deserve from critics or audiences. With the advent of streaming services such as Netflix, however, finding worthwhile, high quality, and diverse comedies is easier than ever.
It is worth noting that the sheer number of movies Netflix has available does make such a task daunting. Unfortunately, plenty of well-made movies do get lost among the seemingly endless shuffle of viewing material. For one reason or another, these comedies flew under the radar of most viewers but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth a watch.
The Death of Stalin (2017)
Despite its star-studded ensemble cast including the likes of Steve Buscemi and receiving critical acclaim, The Death of Stalin failed to garner a wide audience, which is understandable considering the film’s controversial subject matter. This pitch-black comedy takes a satirical look at the death and downfall of one of history’s most infamous dictators, Joseph Stalin, depicting the events through an absurdist lens. History buffs and average moviegoers alike can appreciate the pitch-perfect performances and even gain a deeper understanding of today’s chaotic political climate from viewing this under-appreciated gem of a satirical romp.
The Disaster Artist (2017)
It is difficult to believe this biographical dramedy went largely unnoticed by major award shows but just serves to reaffirm the discrimination comedies face from groups like the Academy. James Franco starred in, produced, and directed this retelling of the making of one of cinema’s most notoriously bad movies: The Room.
Franco costars with his brother Dave Franco and their chemistry together is one of the highlights of the film. The Disaster Artist also deserves recognition for the way it is able to humanize a man like Tommy Wiseau, someone who many people claim behaves like someone from another planet. What shines through the most is the pure love and passion for cinema felt by Wiseau, a feeling sure to be passed on to audiences.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Any fan of Taika Waititi needs to seek out this heartwarming adventure comedy about foster kid Ricky Baker and his quest to find a true family. Ricky has developed a hardened, cynical outlook on life after having spent his entire childhood being moved from foster home to foster home. When he moves into the home of an elderly couple on a farm in the New Zealand bush, Ricky doesn’t expect things to be any different and so runs away, setting off a nationwide search for the teenage boy. What follows is a touching and quirky story filled with Taika Waititi’s signature brand of offbeat, eccentric humor.
The Pirates! Band of Misfits (2012)
Aardman Animations is most well known for their stop motion animated films featuring the beloved duo Wallace and Gromit but this 2012 animated adventure comedy deserves plenty of recognition as well. The Pirates! Band of Misfits boasts a stellar cast full of a who’s who of British acting royalty as well as a script filled to the brim with razor-sharp wit and laugh-out-loud funny visual gags.
Hugh Grant headlines the cast as the pompous Pirate Captain, an inept swashbuckler desperate to make a name for himself and his crew by winning the highly coveted Pirate of the Year award. The chaos and comedy that ensues are sure to delight viewers of all ages.
Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
Eddie Murphy made what many considered to be a career comeback by taking on the lead role of Rudy Ray Moore in the biographical comedy Dolemite Is My Name. Murphy portrays Moore, a fixture of 1970s blaxploitation films and an extremely influential figure in rap, comedy, and Black cinema. Moore’s biopic depicts his life and humble beginnings in Los Angeles to his eventual success as the star of Dolemite, a film starring his most beloved character. Audiences were drawn to Murphy’s magnetic performance and critics felt he was robbed of a Best Actor Oscar. At the very least, Dolemite Is My Name was able to introduce Rudy Ray Moore to a much wider audience.
Little Evil (2017)
This delightfully offbeat horror-comedy manages to both revel in and subvert the tired “evil child” horror movie trope by injecting it with a comedic twist. Adam Scott of Parks and Recreation fame headlines Little Evil, portraying Gary, a newly married man who gains a little more than he bargained for with his new stepson Lucas. Despite clear evidence, no one seems willing to believe Gary when he claims little Lucas is the spawn of Satan. Little Evil offers a refreshing, satirical take on films like The Omen and also explores more complex themes related to fatherhood and marriage, offering something for cinephiles of all kinds.
Rango (2011)
When Rango hit theaters a decade ago, it did find an audience but not exactly with its target demographic. Being predominantly a Western film, Rango attracted a mostly older audience with a love for these more classic movies; as a result, younger children were unable to fully appreciate or even grasp the witty and nuanced homages paid to films of yesteryear such as Blazing Saddles.
With that being said, older children and adolescents, as well as their parents, can certainly enjoy the painstakingly detailed and beautiful animation and riotous performances given by the likes of Johnny Depp and Isla Fisher, even if the existentialist themes fly over some of their heads.
My Entire High School Sinking Into the Sea (2016)
Comic book artist turned filmmaker Dash Shaw made his feature film debut in 2016 with My Entire High School Sinking Into the Sea, a shining example of contemporary hand drawn animation executed in an exciting, inventive way. The plot is rather simple: two high school sophomores discover their precariously placed school building is in danger of serious damage due to an oversight in the building’s safety codes. A minor earthquake then causes the entire high school to begin sinking into the Pacific Ocean and is the catalyst for much of the film’s events. The sheer creativity and artistry jumping off the screen is what distinguishes this film from any other. Shaw imbues every scene with eye-catching, bold colors and psychedelic undertones that make it difficult to look away from the screen.
Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)
Now regarded as a cult classic, Killer Klowns from Outer Space is not exactly everyone’s cup of tea but is definitely a must-watch for anyone even remotely interested in over-the-top B movies. This science-fiction horror-comedy is noteworthy for its laughably outlandish premise and memorable visual and practical effects. Aliens that resemble demented circus clowns invade a small town and wreak havoc on its citizens by ensnaring them in cotton candy cocoons to be harvested for food. Killer Klowns from Outer Space knows exactly the type of movie it is and doesn’t attempt to be anything else; it delights in the subpar performances of its actors and campy visual style. All of these elements combine harmoniously to make an extremely enjoyable watch.
The Incredible Jessica James (2017)
The Incredible Jessica James certainly didn’t break any new ground when it premiered at Sundance in 2017 but the romantic comedy provides enough laughs and undeniable charm to garner a watch. Jessica Williams is a breath of fresh air as Jessica James, a 25-year-old woman trying to find success and love in New York City. The story is incredibly familiar but the performances and genuine laughs more than make up for its lack of originality. The movie injects new life into a tired genre by showcasing a diverse cast and including painfully relatable situations that also happen to be laugh-out-loud hilarious. The Incredible Jessica James is a must-watch for rom-com fans.
