The Coen Brothers have directed many wonderful and different flicks, from crime and comedy to drama, every movie has a different sense of adventure, humor, or mystery. Since the 1980s, these directors have entertained Hollywood with their many memorable characters.
Whether fans can’t get enough of Mattie Ross’ quick wit in True Grit or will never tire of Chad Feldheimer in Burn After Reading, it’s time to look back to all the Coen Brothers’ characters that made everyone laugh. Here are these iconic directors’ 10 funniest or most memorable characters, ranked.
Chad Feldheimer: Burn After Reading – (2008)
Brad Pitt is unfortunately cast in many serious roles, and when he finally is allowed to fall into his comedic genius – it’s so memorable. This hysterical performance of him playing a not-so-smart guy is the goofy character everyone loves.
This is certainly one of the most outrageous flicks from the Coen Brothers, and it’s been made iconic and unforgettable through Pitt’s performance. Forget the blockbusters, this is Pitt at his peak.
H.I. McDunnough: Raising Arizona – (1987)
Everyone in this flick is hilarious and Frances McDormand’s Dot deserves some nods. But its Nicolas Cage that wins the spotlight as he brings his memorable character to life in quirky and hilarious ways.
The entire premise of this film is ridiculous, but Cage’s blank and not-so-there demeanor is worthy of laughs with just a simple glance.
Wendell: No Country For Old Men – (2007)
There isn’t much that’s inherently funny about this crime drama, but there are so many dynamic and unique characters that it’s impossible not to find some humor in it.
Wendell (Garret Dillahunt) is a minor role, but is certainly the owner of one of the most hilarious and memorable lines from this popular flick – “Aw! They even shot the dog!” This police officer is definitely the comedic relief the film needed.
Buster Scruggs: The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs – (2018)
This comedy-drama is a take on an old Western, and it has all the uniqueness and quirkiness that movie lovers adore. In fact, Tim Blake Nelson makes this list twice – because he’s absolutely hilarious.
He’s blunt, but he’s also the king of long-winded monologues full of dramatic flair. As far as iconic characters go, this is one that will immediately put a smile on every viewer’s face – even if he’s got a gun in his hand.
Marge Gunderson: Fargo – (1996)
“I’m not sure I agree with you one hundred percent on your police work, Lou.” Marge is one of the most memorable characters in modern film, and certainly the main reason everyone fell in love with Frances McDormand.
While she isn’t the traditional definition of hilarious, her quirky and lovable energy is worthy of so many laughs throughout this classic film. There are many characters to laugh with, but Marge will always come out on top.
Delmar O’Donnell: O Brother, Where Art Thou? – (2000)
This crime comedy has a stellar cast, but Tim Blake Nelson’s character definitely stands out for having brilliant comedic timing, mixed perfectly with that of his co-stars.
His explanations are more than memorable, and true fans of this show will certainly never forget him trying to describe transmogrification. Of all the performances in this flick, this one is a no-brainer.
Professor G.H. Dorr: The Ladykillers – (2004)
Had this film done better with the critics, this might be one of Tom Hanks’ most memorable and hilarious roles. This crime comedy is a different role for Hanks, and it’s impossible not to crack up at his Southern accent.
In all its ridiculousness, this might not be the most iconic flick from the Coen Brothers, but Tom Hanks’ character certainly deserves a nod for making every viewer laugh.
Al Cody: Inside Llewyn Davis – (2013)
This is probably one of Coen Brother’s lesser-known films, but it’s still memorable and completely different from anything seen before.
Oscar Isaac takes the lead, but it’s Adam Driver’s quirkiness and lack of social awareness that makes the audience laugh. It’s enough to watch his singing scene with Isaac and Justin Timberlake.
Walter Sobchak: The Big Lebowski – (1998)
The Dude has undoubtedly become one of the most popular characters from this director duo, and quite possibly of all time. Jeff Bridges brings so much personality to this character, and his humor is immediately invigorating.
However, the funniest character from this classic film is probably Walter. Played by John Goodman, this character has all the one-liners that are at the root of the comedy in this film.
Rooster Cogburn: True Grit – (2010)
If Jeff Bridges didn’t make this list for The Big Lebowski, he certainly deserves to for this Western. His banter with both Matt Damon and a young Hailee Steinfeld is brilliant, but his one-liners are certainly what takes the cake.
“If they wanted a decent funeral, they should have got themselves killed in summer.” There are too many good lines to pick from, but his humor here is definitely iconic.
