Laughter, they say, is the best medicine, and on those gloomy days when the world seems a bit too grey—as it has been in most of the Northern Hemisphere lately, a hearty dose of comedy is just what the doctor would order. Fortunately, Netflix is a treasure trove of comedic gems that can turn your frown upside down. From quirky adventures to satirical masterpieces, the streaming giant has something for every sense of humour.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a heartwarming yet hilarious tale directed by Taika Waititi. Set against the stunning backdrop of the New Zealand wilderness, this film follows the misadventures of a rebellious foster child and his cantankerous foster uncle. Waititi’s unique blend of wry humour and touching storytelling creates a cinematic experience that is both side-splitting and emotionally resonant.
Venturing into the world of period comedies, The Favourite is now on Netflix. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, this is a darkly humorous exploration of power and manipulation. The film’s witty dialogue and the stellar performances of its cast, including Emma Stone, Olivia Colman, and Rachel Weisz, elevate it to a level of comedic brilliance rarely seen in historical dramas.
In the realm of conventional comedies, Legally Blonde stands tall. Directed by Robert Luketic, the film takes us on a pink-hued journey with Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, as she defies stereotypes and tackles law school with a style that’s as endearing as it is funny. On the other end of the spectrum, the raucous antics of Todd Phillips’s bro comedy The Hangover takes bachelor party mayhem to a whole new level. Lest you forget, this was Bradley Cooper’s breakout role, what with Maestro being celebrated at the awards season this year.
There is also Monty Python and the Holy Grail, which is a comedic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Directed by Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones, this irreverent take on the Arthurian legend is a testament to the power of absurdity.
Rocking its way onto our list is School of Rock, a musical comedy directed by Richard Linklater. Jack Black’s infectious energy takes centre stage as he transforms a group of kids into a rock band. This one is for audiences of all ages.
There is also the horror-comedy Zombieland, directed by Ruben Fleischer, for fans of zombie films and apocalypse. This one takes a lighthearted approach to the apocalypse genre, delivering laughs alongside the gore. Queenpins, directed by Aron Gaudet and Gita Pullapilly, is a crime comedy that blends humour with a dash of rebellion. Inspired by a true story, the film follows two friends, played by The Good Place stars Kristen Bell and Kirby Howell-Baptiste, who orchestrate a coupon scam.
Delhi Belly, directed by Abhinay Deo, offers a refreshing take on the crap comedy genre. Filled with irreverent hilarity and unexpected twists, the film navigates the chaotic landscape of urban India with a wit that shocked the mainstream Bollywood audience when it was released in 2011.
In the meta-comedy realm, we have AK vs AK, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane. The 2020 film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, as the Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor and Gangs of Wasseypur director Anurag Kashyap play exaggerated versions of themselves in a film that’s as unconventional as it is inventive.
So, whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming adventures, satirical wit, or outright absurdity, Netflix has you covered with these ten comedy films that promise to turn even the gloomiest day into a laugh-out-loud affair.
10 best comedy films to watch on Netflix:
- Hunt for the Wilderpeople
- The Favourite
- Monty Python and the Holy Grail
- School of Rock
- The Hangover
- Queenpins
- Delhi Belly
- AK vs AK
- Zombieland
- Legally Blonde
