Finding the best comedies on Amazon Prime is a tough task. While the catalogue is huge, there are so many films that are not worth watching. I’ve gathered all of the comedy movies that I’ve watched and can recommend, including the synopsis, my take and trailers so you can decide for yourself if it’s the right comedy for you.
I’ve ranked the comedies in order of how much I laughed, but the star ratings are based on the WYALAN rating for the movie as a whole and if I would rewatch it.
WYALAN star rating explained:
- 5 stars – Highly enjoyed and would highly recommend as a must watch
- 4 stars – Enjoyed and would watch again in the future
- 3 stars – Glad I watched it once, but I’ll probably never watch it again
- 2 stars – Watched to the end, but I wouldn’t watch it again
- 1 star – DNF (did not finish)
Click the three dots on the left hand side to open the table of contents and quickly jump to a series or movie you haven’t seen.
You might be interested in my other best comedy lists:
- Best Comedies On Apple TV+
- Best Comedies on Disney+
- Best Comedy Series On Sky Comedy & Now TV
- Best Comedies on BBC iPlayer
- Best Comedy Podcasts
- Best Stand Up Comedy Albums & Specials on Spotify & YouTube
Table of contents
The Big Sick
WYALAN Rating: 5/5
Created by: Emily V. Gordon (Little America, The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail) and Kumail Nanjiani (Silicon Valley, Eternals).
Stars: Kumail Nanjiani (Silicon Valley, Eternals), Zoe Kazan (Ruby Sparks, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs), Holly Hunter (The Piano, Broadcast News), Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond, The Irishman), and Anupam Kher (Hotel Mumbai, Bend It Like Beckham).
Synopsis:
The Big Sick is a heartfelt romantic comedy inspired by the true story of Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon. Kumail, a Pakistani-American stand-up comedian, is pursuing his career in Chicago while navigating his traditional family’s expectations for an arranged marriage. During one of his performances, he meets Emily (Zoe Kazan), a graduate student with a witty and vibrant personality, and the two quickly fall for each other. However, their budding romance is tested as cultural differences and familial pressures threaten to pull them apart.
When Emily suddenly falls gravely ill and is placed in a medically induced coma, Kumail finds himself forming an unexpected bond with her fiercely protective parents, Beth (Holly Hunter) and Terry (Ray Romano). As they spend time together in the hospital, Kumail begins to reconcile his identity, family expectations, and his feelings for Emily.
The Big Sick received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay and a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Comedy.
Tim’s Take: Topping the list is one of my favourite rom coms, not just of the last decade, but of all time. I feel like The Big Sick doesn’t get talked about enough. It’s funny, heartfelt and bittersweet in equal measures. There is some great dry humour and great lines where the leads poke fun at each other.
Snatch
WYALAN Rating: 4.5/5
Created by: Guy Ritchie (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Sherlock Holmes).
Stars: Brad Pitt (Fight Club, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), Jason Statham (The Transporter, Crank), Benicio del Toro (Sicario, Traffic), Vinnie Jones (X-Men: The Last Stand, Gone in 60 Seconds), and Dennis Farina (Get Shorty, Out of Sight).
Synopsis:
Snatch is a fast-paced crime comedy set in the gritty underworld of London. The film intertwines two main plots: the search for a stolen diamond and the misadventures of a small-time boxing promoter. Turkish (Jason Statham) and his partner Tommy (Stephen Graham) find themselves entangled in the world of illegal boxing when they recruit Mickey O’Neil (Brad Pitt), a charismatic but unpredictable Irish gypsy, to fight in a rigged match. Meanwhile, a stolen diamond attracts the attention of various criminals, including the ruthless Brick Top (Alan Ford) and the eccentric Boris the Blade (Rade Šerbedžija).
Tim’s Take: Snatch highlights Jason Statham and Stephen Graham’s comedy chops and they were always destined for bigger projects in the future. The intertwining of storylines should be taught in film school. It’s masterfully done with several characters and moving parts, keeping you engaged throughout. For me, this was Guy Richie’s last great film. If you liked Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, you’ll probably like Snatch.
21 Jump Street
WYALAN Rating: 5/5
Created by: Michael Bacall (Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Project X).
Stars: Jonah Hill (Superbad, The Wolf of Wall Street), Channing Tatum (Magic Mike, The Lost City), Brie Larson (Room, Captain Marvel), Ice Cube (Friday, Ride Along), and Dave Franco (Neighbors, The Disaster Artist).
Synopsis:
21 Jump Street is a modern comedy reboot of the classic 1980s TV series. The film follows Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum), two mismatched police officers whose high school experiences were worlds apart – Schmidt was a socially awkward overachiever, while Jenko was the popular jock coasting on charm. After graduating from police academy, their aspirations of living out action-packed cop fantasies fall flat when they’re assigned to an undercover program. Their task: infiltrate a high school and bust a drug ring distributing a dangerous synthetic drug known as H.F.S.
The film earned several accolades, including the Teen Choice Award for Best Comedy and Best Actor awards for Hill and Tatum.
Tim’s Take: I think the plot alone is hilarious. Sure, there are very similar plotlines in other films and TV shows, not to mention a ton of buddy cop movies, but the comedy duo between Hill and Tatum makes the film a cut above the rest. They’re both hilarious as awkward high schoolers plus there are lots of scenes with physical comedy too.
The Commitments
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: Alan Parker (Evita, Mississippi Burning), Dick Clement (The Bank Job, Porridge), and Ian La Frenais (The Likely Lads, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet).
Stars: Robert Arkins (The Commitments), Andrew Strong (The Commitments), Maria Doyle Kennedy (Orphan Black, The Tudors), Glen Hansard (Once, The Swell Season), and Bronagh Gallagher (Pulp Fiction, The Personal History of David Copperfield).
Synopsis:
The Commitments is a vibrant musical comedy-drama set in the working-class neighborhoods of Dublin, Ireland. The film follows Jimmy Rabbitte (Robert Arkins), a young music enthusiast with big dreams of managing a soul band. Determined to bring the sounds of Motown to Dublin, Jimmy assembles a ragtag group of musicians and singers, dubbing them “The Commitments.” Despite their lack of experience, the band quickly gains local fame for their electrifying performances of soul classics like “Mustang Sally” and “Try a Little Tenderness.”
As the band rises in popularity, tensions among its members threaten to tear them apart. Egos clash, romances spark, and personal ambitions collide. The film captures the struggles and triumphs of chasing dreams in a gritty, humorous, and deeply human way. With its unforgettable soundtrack and authentic portrayal of Dublin life, The Commitments won four BAFTA Awards, including Best Film and Best Direction.
Fargo
WYALAN Rating: 5/5
Created by: Joel Coen (No Country for Old Men, The Big Lebowski) and Ethan Coen (Burn After Reading, Inside Llewyn Davis).
Stars: Frances McDormand (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Nomadland), William H. Macy (Shameless, Boogie Nights), Steve Buscemi (Reservoir Dogs, Boardwalk Empire), Peter Stormare (The Big Lebowski, John Wick: Chapter 2), and Harve Presnell (Saving Private Ryan, Flags of Our Fathers).
Synopsis:
Fargo is a darkly comedic crime thriller set in the snow-covered landscapes of Minnesota. The story begins with Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy), a financially desperate car salesman who hires two bumbling criminals, Carl (Steve Buscemi) and Gaear (Peter Stormare), to kidnap his wife. Jerry’s plan is to extort a hefty ransom from his wealthy father-in-law, but things quickly spiral out of control when the criminals leave a trail of violence in their wake.
Enter Marge Gunderson (Frances McDormand), a pregnant and sharp-witted police chief who begins investigating the murders linked to the kidnapping. Marge’s unassuming demeanor hides her keen intellect as she pieces together the clues leading to Jerry and his accomplices. Fargo won two Academy Awards, including Best Actress for McDormand and Best Original Screenplay.
Tim’s Take: Fargo remains one of the Coen Brothers’ best movies (the other being The Big Lebowski). The plot is incredibly silly and the setting and characters of Minnesota adds to the comedy in spades. I’ve watched Fargo around five times now and enjoy it as much as the first viewing.
The Other Guys
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Adam McKay (Anchorman, Step Brothers), with a screenplay by Adam McKay and Chris Henchy (Land of the Lost, The Campaign).
Stars: Will Ferrell (Elf, Talladega Nights), Mark Wahlberg (The Fighter, Ted), Eva Mendes (Hitch, Training Day), Michael Keaton (Batman, Birdman), and Steve Coogan (Philomena, Tropic Thunder).
Synopsis:
The Other Guys is a buddy cop action-comedy that follows two mismatched detectives in the New York City Police Department. Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell) is a mild-mannered forensic accountant who prefers paperwork over fieldwork, while Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg) is a hot-headed detective sidelined after accidentally shooting Derek Jeter during the World Series. The duo is overshadowed by the precinct’s superstar cops, Highsmith (Samuel L. Jackson) and Danson (Dwayne Johnson), whose reckless heroics dominate the spotlight.
When Highsmith and Danson meet an untimely demise, Allen and Terry seize the opportunity to step up and prove themselves. Their investigation into a scaffolding permit violation leads them to uncover a massive financial conspiracy involving billionaire David Ershon (Steve Coogan).
Tim’s Take: Wahlberg, Ferrell and Adam McKay is a strong comedy combination, together with cameos from Jackson and Johnson, The Other Guys is a fun buddy comedy clocking in just under 2 hours. Wahlberg is at his best as a hot-head which contrasts perfectly to Ferrell’s meek character.
Plus One
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: Jeff Chan (Pen15, Dating & New York) and Andrew Rhymer (Pen15, The Mindy Project).
Stars: Maya Erskine (Pen15, Wine Country), Jack Quaid (The Boys, Scream VI), Beck Bennett (Saturday Night Live, Sing 2), Rosalind Chao (The Joy Luck Club, Mulan), and Ed Begley Jr. (Better Call Saul, St. Elsewhere).
Synopsis:
Plus One is a charming romantic comedy that follows Ben (Jack Quaid) and Alice (Maya Erskine), two longtime friends navigating the chaos of wedding season. Both perpetually single, they make a pact to be each other’s “plus one” at every wedding they’re invited to, hoping to survive the endless toasts, awkward dances, and family interrogations.
As they attend wedding after wedding, their friendship deepens, and they begin to question their own feelings for each other. The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature.
Tim’s Take: Plus One does a great job of exploring the ‘maybe we’re more than friends’ cliche but adds huge amounts of humour from the great lead casting.
Role Models
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: David Wain (Wet Hot American Summer, The Ten), Paul Rudd (Ant-Man, This Is 40), Ken Marino (Party Down, The Other Two), and Timothy Dowling (Pixels, Just Go with It).
Stars: Paul Rudd (Ant-Man, Clueless), Seann William Scott (American Pie, Goon), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Superbad, Kick-Ass), Bobb’e J. Thompson (30 Rock, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl), and Jane Lynch (Glee, Best in Show).
Synopsis:
Role Models is a buddy comedy that follows Danny (Paul Rudd) and Wheeler (Seann William Scott), two energy drink salesmen whose reckless behavior lands them in trouble with the law. Instead of jail time, they are sentenced to 150 hours of community service at Sturdy Wings, a mentorship program pairing adults with kids. Danny is assigned to Augie (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), a socially awkward teenager obsessed with live-action role-playing games, while Wheeler is paired with Ronnie (Bobb’e J. Thompson), a foul-mouthed and mischievous young boy.
As the mismatched pairs navigate their differences, chaos and hilarity ensue. Danny struggles to connect with Augie, who is immersed in his fantasy world, while Wheeler tries to keep up with Ronnie’s wild antics. Role Models was a box office success and received a Critics’ Choice Movie Award nomination for Best Comedy.
Tim’s Take: Role Models is surprisingly heart warming for a film which includes Seann William Scott as a lead. Bobb’e J. Thompson is hilarious in the role as a foul mouthed young boy.
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Jake Kasdan (Bad Teacher, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story), with a screenplay by Chris McKenna (Spider-Man: No Way Home), Erik Sommers (Ant-Man and the Wasp), Scott Rosenberg (Venom), and Jeff Pinkner (The Amazing Spider-Man 2).
Stars: Dwayne Johnson (Fast & Furious, Black Adam), Kevin Hart (Ride Along, Central Intelligence), Jack Black (School of Rock, Kung Fu Panda), Karen Gillan (Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Who), and Nick Jonas (Midway, Camp Rock).
Synopsis:
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a reimagining of the beloved 1995 classic. The story begins in 1996, when a teenager named Alex Vreeke discovers the Jumanji board game, which mysteriously transforms into a video game cartridge overnight. Upon playing it, Alex is sucked into the game, disappearing from the real world. Fast forward 20 years, four high school students—Spencer, Fridge, Bethany, and Martha—are sent to detention, where they stumble upon the same video game console. Curious, they decide to play, only to find themselves transported into the jungle world of Jumanji, inhabiting the bodies of their chosen avatars.
Spencer becomes the fearless Dr. Smolder Bravestone (Dwayne Johnson), Fridge transforms into the diminutive zoologist Franklin “Mouse” Finbar (Kevin Hart), Martha takes on the role of the agile Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan), and Bethany hilariously ends up as Professor Shelly Oberon (Jack Black), a middle-aged cartographer. Together, they must navigate the treacherous jungle, complete a series of challenges, and return a magical jewel called the “Jaguar’s Eye” to its rightful place to lift the curse on Jumanji. Along the way, they encounter Nigel (Rhys Darby), a helpful NPC, and face off against the villainous Professor Van Pelt (Bobby Cannavale), who controls the jungle’s wildlife.
The film was a massive box office success, grossing over $962 million worldwide and becoming the fifth-highest-grossing film of 2017. It received praise for its humor, performances, and inventive twist on the original concept. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle won several awards, including a Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite Movie and an MTV Movie + TV Award nomination for Best On-Screen Team.
Tim’s Take: Reboots are always tricky, but Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is an excellent modern day example. While the films share the same premise, there are huge differences elsewhere which keeps the 2017 version fresh and very much separate from the original. The casting is perfect too.
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Mike Myers (Wayne’s World, Shrek) and Jay Roach (Meet the Parents, Bombshell).
Stars: Mike Myers (Shrek, Wayne’s World), Elizabeth Hurley (Bedazzled, The Royals), Michael York (Cabaret, Logan’s Run), Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and Mindy Sterling (The Grinch, Con Man).
Synopsis:
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery is a spy comedy that parodies the James Bond franchise and 1960s spy films. The story follows Austin Powers (Mike Myers), a groovy British secret agent frozen in 1967 and thawed out in the 1990s to combat his nemesis, Dr. Evil (also played by Myers). Dr. Evil has returned from space with a diabolical plan to hold the world ransom for one million dollars – a sum hilariously outdated in the modern era.
Austin, with his flamboyant personality and outdated sensibilities, teams up with Vanessa Kensington (Elizabeth Hurley), a sharp and capable agent, to stop Dr. Evil’s scheme. The film is packed with absurd humor, memorable catchphrases, and over-the-top characters, including Dr. Evil’s quirky henchmen and Austin’s unrelenting charm.
Tim’s Take: While parody spy films are a dime a dozen, Austin Powers has to be in the top 10. If you like other slapstick comedies such as Naked Gun or the lesser known Spy, you’ll probably like Austin Powers.
Ted
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, American Dad!).
Stars: Mark Wahlberg (The Fighter, Boogie Nights), Mila Kunis (Black Swan, That ’70s Show), Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, The Orville), Joel McHale (Community, The Great Indoors), and Giovanni Ribisi (Avatar, Sneaky Pete).
Synopsis:
Ted is a raunchy comedy that tells the story of John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), a man whose childhood wish brings his teddy bear, Ted (voiced by Seth MacFarlane), to life. While Ted initially becomes a beloved companion, the duo’s friendship evolves into a hilarious and chaotic bond as they grow older. Now in his 30s, John struggles to balance his relationship with his girlfriend Lori (Mila Kunis) and his irresponsible antics with Ted, who has become a foul-mouthed, party-loving troublemaker.
Tim’s Take: If you like any of Seth Farlane’s other creations, you’ll probably like Ted. This reminds me I need to create a list of the best comedy films starring Mark Wahlberg because I need people to see them.
Palm Springs
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Max Barbakow (The Duke, Mother of the Maid) and Andy Siara (The Resort, Lodge 49).
Stars: Andy Samberg (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping), Cristin Milioti (How I Met Your Mother, Made for Love), J.K. Simmons (Whiplash, Spider-Man), Meredith Hagner (Search Party, Vacation Friends), and Camila Mendes (Riverdale, Do Revenge).
Synopsis:
Palm Springs is a refreshing romantic comedy with a sci-fi twist. The story begins at a wedding in Palm Springs, where carefree Nyles (Andy Samberg) and reluctant maid of honor Sarah (Cristin Milioti) meet. After a strange encounter in a mysterious cave, Sarah finds herself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again – just like Nyles. The two form an unlikely bond as they navigate the absurdity of their predicament, indulging in reckless adventures and grappling with existential questions about life and love.
As their relationship deepens, Sarah becomes determined to break free from the loop, while Nyles is content to remain in their consequence-free bubble. Palm Springs received critical acclaim and won the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Comedy, along with two Golden Globe nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
Tim’s Take: I’ll watch anything with Andy Samberg because I love Brooklyn 99 and Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (although I think Hot Rod and The Lonely Island are only okay). I’d put Palm Springs somewhere in between. It was a gentle watch and an interesting take on the rom com genre plot wise (I also love sci-fi).
Jerry Maguire
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: Cameron Crowe (Almost Famous, Vanilla Sky).
Stars: Tom Cruise (Top Gun, Mission: Impossible), Renée Zellweger (Bridget Jones’s Diary, Judy), Cuba Gooding Jr. (Boyz n the Hood, The People v. O.J. Simpson), Kelly Preston (Twins, For Love of the Game), and Bonnie Hunt (The Green Mile, Cheaper by the Dozen).
Synopsis:
Jerry Maguire is a sports dramedy that follows the titular character (Tom Cruise), a high-powered sports agent who experiences a moral epiphany. After writing a mission statement advocating for fewer clients and more personal attention, Jerry is fired from his agency. Determined to start fresh, he forms his own agency with the help of Dorothy Boyd (Renée Zellweger), a single mother who believes in his vision.
Jerry’s only client is Rod Tidwell (Cuba Gooding Jr.), an outspoken and underappreciated football player who demands to be shown the money. As Jerry struggles to rebuild his career, he also navigates a budding romance with Dorothy and learns the true meaning of success. The film is packed with iconic moments and lines, including “You complete me” and “Show me the money!” Jerry Maguire was a critical and commercial success, earning five Academy Award nominations and winning Best Supporting Actor for Gooding Jr.
Tim’s Take: What a run of movies Tom Cruise had in the 90’s. I think Jerry Maguire is one of my favourite Tom Cruise movies overall. It has a great mixture of comedy and sincerity which makes this a rewatchable feel good movie. The iconic scenes make watching Jerry Maguire worth your time alone.
Legally Blonde
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: Robert Luketic (The Ugly Truth, 21), with a screenplay by Karen McCullah Lutz (10 Things I Hate About You) and Kirsten Smith (Ella Enchanted).
Stars: Reese Witherspoon (Big Little Lies, Walk the Line), Luke Wilson (Old School, Idiocracy), Selma Blair (Cruel Intentions, Hellboy), Jennifer Coolidge (The White Lotus, Best in Show), and Victor Garber (Titanic, Alias).
Synopsis:
Legally Blonde is a delightful comedy about Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon), a fashionable and bubbly sorority queen who is dumped by her boyfriend, Warner Huntington III (Matthew Davis), for not being “serious” enough. Determined to win him back, Elle applies to Harvard Law School and surprises everyone by getting accepted.
As Elle navigates the competitive and judgmental world of law school, she proves that she is more than just a pretty face. With her intelligence, charm, and unique perspective, Elle takes on a high-profile murder case and earns the respect of her peers and professors. The film is a celebration of self-confidence, perseverance, and breaking stereotypes. Legally Blonde was a box office hit and earned Reese Witherspoon a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.
Tim’s Take: I’ll be honest, I avoided watching Legally Blonde as I didn’t think it was ‘my type of movie’. But along with other films like Mean Girls, I have realised I need to give all comedies a try. Add Legally Blonde to the feel good easy watch pile.
Step Brothers
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Adam McKay (Anchorman, The Big Short), with a story by Will Ferrell (Elf, Talladega Nights) and John C. Reilly (Chicago, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story).
Stars: Will Ferrell (Anchorman, Elf), John C. Reilly (Boogie Nights, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story), Mary Steenburgen (Parenthood, The Proposal), Richard Jenkins (The Visitor, Burn After Reading), and Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation, Big Little Lies).
Synopsis:
Step Brothers follows Brennan Huff (Will Ferrell) and Dale Doback (John C. Reilly), two middle-aged men who still live with their respective single parents. When Brennan’s mother, Nancy (Mary Steenburgen), marries Dale’s father, Robert (Richard Jenkins), the two are forced to live together as stepbrothers. Initially, Brennan and Dale despise each other, but their shared love for absurd hobbies and juvenile antics eventually brings them closer.
As the duo wreaks havoc on their family and neighborhood, their parents demand that they grow up and find jobs. Brennan and Dale reluctantly attempt to navigate adulthood, leading to hilariously disastrous interviews and schemes.
Tim’s Take: I remember when Step Brothers was first released, I loved it along with other Will Ferrell movies of this era like Zoolander and Anchorman (both are still among my favourite comedies today). But having watched Step Brothers in recent years, it doesn’t quite hold up. The slapstick is a little too silly, in a different way to Naked Gun which the latter remains one of my favourite comedies. Still, I think Step Brothers is worth watching if you’re a fan of Will Ferrell or John C. Reilly.
Silver Linings Playbook
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: David O. Russell (American Hustle, The Fighter), based on the novel by Matthew Quick (The Silver Linings Playbook).
Stars: Bradley Cooper (A Star Is Born, The Hangover), Jennifer Lawrence (The Hunger Games, Joy), Robert De Niro (Taxi Driver, The Irishman), Jacki Weaver (Animal Kingdom, Stoker), and Chris Tucker (Rush Hour, Friday).
Synopsis:
Silver Linings Playbook is a romantic dramedy that follows Pat Solitano Jr. (Bradley Cooper), a man with bipolar disorder who is released from a psychiatric hospital and moves back in with his parents, Patrizio Sr. (Robert De Niro) and Dolores (Jacki Weaver). Determined to win back his estranged wife, Nikki, Pat meets Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence), a young widow with her own struggles. Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with Nikki if he agrees to partner with her in a dance competition.
As Pat and Tiffany train together, their bond deepens, and they begin to confront their personal challenges and insecurities. Silver Linings Playbook was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Academy Award nominations and winning Best Actress for Lawrence. It also won a BAFTA Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and several Critics’ Choice Awards.
Tim’s Take: What I love about Silver Linings Playbook is it manages to intersperse comedic moments whilst tastefully portraying mental health and its impact on relationships. It’s incredibly heartfelt and showed Bradley Cooper’s versatility.
The Goonies
WYALAN Rating: 5/5
Created by: Richard Donner (Superman, Lethal Weapon), with a screenplay by Chris Columbus (Home Alone, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone), based on a story by Steven Spielberg (E.T., Jurassic Park).
Stars: Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings, Stranger Things), Josh Brolin (No Country for Old Men, Avengers: Endgame), Corey Feldman (Stand by Me, The Lost Boys), Ke Huy Quan (Everything Everywhere All at Once, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom), and Martha Plimpton (Raising Hope, The Mosquito Coast).
Synopsis:
The Goonies is a beloved adventure-comedy that follows a group of misfit kids from the “Goon Docks” neighborhood of Astoria, Oregon. Facing the foreclosure of their homes, Mikey (Sean Astin), his older brother Brand (Josh Brolin), and their friends stumble upon an old treasure map in Mikey’s attic. The map leads them on a thrilling quest to find the long-lost fortune of One-Eyed Willy, a legendary 17th-century pirate.
Their journey takes them through a series of underground tunnels filled with booby traps, puzzles, and danger, all while being pursued by the Fratelli crime family, who are also after the treasure. Along the way, the kids form unbreakable bonds and discover their own courage and resourcefulness. The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” and won a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress (Anne Ramsey).
Tim’s Take: Before Stranger Things, there was The Goonies. One of a handful of films on this list that are family friendly, there is enough here for adults to love. If you like National Treasure, you’ll probably like The Goonies.
Beetlejuice
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Tim Burton (Edward Scissorhands, Batman), with a screenplay by Michael McDowell (The Nightmare Before Christmas) and Warren Skaaren (Top Gun).
Stars: Michael Keaton (Batman, Birdman), Winona Ryder (Stranger Things, Edward Scissorhands), Alec Baldwin (30 Rock, The Departed), Geena Davis (Thelma & Louise, A League of Their Own), and Catherine O’Hara (Schitt’s Creek, Home Alone).
Synopsis:
Beetlejuice is a gothic dark comedy that tells the story of Adam (Alec Baldwin) and Barbara Maitland (Geena Davis), a recently deceased couple who find themselves trapped as ghosts in their own home. When a new family, the Deetzes, moves in and begins remodeling their beloved house, the Maitlands attempt to scare them away but fail miserably. Desperate for help, they summon Betelgeuse (Michael Keaton), a mischievous and chaotic “bio-exorcist” whose antics quickly spiral out of control.
As Betelgeuse wreaks havoc, the Maitlands form an unlikely bond with Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), the goth teenage daughter of the new homeowners. Together, they must find a way to banish Betelgeuse and restore peace to their home. It won the Academy Award for Best Makeup and three Saturn Awards, including Best Horror Film and Best Supporting Actress (Sylvia Sidney).
Tim’s Take: I think the aesthetic of Beetlejuice (and Tim Burton films in general) scared me as a child. But having watched more Tim Burton films as an adult, I’ve gained greater appreciation for his catalogue of work (even Batman). Not one of my favourites of Tim Burton’s, but worth a watch still.
Semi-Pro
WYALAN Rating: 4/5
Created by: Kent Alterman (The Daily Show, A Futile and Stupid Gesture), with a screenplay by Scot Armstrong (Old School, Road Trip).
Stars: Will Ferrell (Anchorman, Elf), Woody Harrelson (True Detective, Zombieland), André Benjamin (Four Brothers, Idlewild), Maura Tierney (ER, The Affair), and David Koechner (The Office, Talladega Nights).
Synopsis:
Semi-Pro is a sports comedy set in 1976 during the final season of the American Basketball Association (ABA). The film follows Jackie Moon (Will Ferrell), a former one-hit wonder who uses the profits from his song “Love Me Sexy” to purchase the Flint Tropics, a struggling ABA team. Jackie serves as the team’s owner, coach, and starting power forward, bringing his eccentric personality and outrageous promotional stunts to the court.
When the ABA announces a merger with the NBA, only the top four teams will make the cut, leaving the Tropics at risk of dissolution. Determined to save his team, Jackie trades a washing machine for Ed Monix (Woody Harrelson), a washed-up point guard with championship experience. Under Monix’s guidance, the Tropics improve their performance, but Jackie’s antics continue to create chaos. Semi-Pro won the ESPY Award for Best Sports Movie and received nominations at the Teen Choice Awards and Golden Trailer Awards.
Tim’s Take: Similar to Step Brothers, rewatching Semi-Pro as an adult I think some of the slapstick humour doesn’t hold up. It’s still worth watching for the chemistry of Ferrell, Harrelson and André Benjamin.
Not Another Teen Movie
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Joel Gallen ( Zoolander), with a screenplay by Mike Bender (The Sweetest Thing), Adam Jay Epstein (Extreme Movie), and Andrew Jacobson (Extreme Movie).
Stars: Chris Evans (Captain America, Knives Out), Chyler Leigh (Grey’s Anatomy, Supergirl), Jaime Pressly (My Name Is Earl, Joe Dirt), Eric Christian Olsen (NCIS: Los Angeles, The Hot Chick), and Mia Kirshner (The L Word, 24).
Synopsis:
Not Another Teen Movie is a parody of popular teen films from the 1980s and 1990s, set in the fictional John Hughes High School. The story centers on Jake Wyler (Chris Evans), a stereotypical jock who bets he can transform Janey Briggs (Chyler Leigh), the “pretty ugly girl,” into prom queen. The film hilariously exaggerates tropes from movies like She’s All That, 10 Things I Hate About You, and American Pie, while weaving in absurd characters like the token black guy, the overly sexual cheerleader, and the clueless foreign exchange student.
As Jake attempts to win over Janey, he faces interference from his scheming ex-girlfriend Priscilla (Jaime Pressly) and his bizarre sister Catherine (Mia Kirshner).Not Another Teen Movie received nominations at the MTV Movie Awards and Teen Choice Awards.
Tim’s Take: Not Another Teen Movie is an excellent parody on teen comedies. It takes all the best tropes and cliches and even though you know what’s going to happen next, the comedy still pays off. I might be biased because I love rom coms, but I think Not Another Teen Movie is worth watching if you also love this genre.
Harold & Kumar Get the Munchies
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Danny Leiner (Dude, Where’s My Car?, The Great New Wonderful), with a screenplay by Jon Hurwitz (American Reunion) and Hayden Schlossberg (Cobra Kai).
Stars: John Cho (Star Trek, Searching), Kal Penn (House, Designated Survivor), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother, Doogie Howser, M.D.), Anthony Anderson (Black-ish, The Departed), and Paula Garcés (The Shield, Clockstoppers).
Synopsis:
Harold & Kumar Get the Munchies is a stoner comedy that follows Harold Lee (John Cho), a Korean-American investment banker, and Kumar Patel (Kal Penn), an Indian-American pre-med student, as they embark on a wild and absurd adventure to satisfy their craving for White Castle burgers. After smoking marijuana on a Friday night, the duo sets out on what should be a simple trip to the nearest White Castle. However, their journey quickly spirals into chaos as they encounter bizarre obstacles, including racist cops, a disfigured tow truck driver, and a cheetah they befriend along the way.
Tim’s Take: Harold & Kumar Get the Munchies reminds me of absurdist comedies like The Mighty Boosh and Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace due to the oddball characters they meet along the way (without the British humour of course).
My Old Ass
Created by: Megan Park (The Fallout, What If).
Stars: Maisy Stella (Nashville), Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation, The White Lotus), Maddie Ziegler (The Fallout, West Side Story), Percy Hynes White (Wednesday, Pretty Hard Cases), and Kerrice Brooks (How We Roll, The Good Doctor).
Synopsis:
My Old Ass is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows Elliott (Maisy Stella), an 18-year-old girl living on her family’s cranberry farm in Muskoka Lakes, Ontario. On her birthday, Elliott takes mushroom tea with her friends and experiences a psychedelic trip that brings her face-to-face with her 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza). The older Elliott offers advice and warnings about her future, urging her to treasure her time with family and avoid certain mistakes.
As Elliott navigates her transformative summer, she reevaluates her relationships, ambitions, and identity. My Old Ass premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received critical acclaim, winning the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Young Performer (Maisy Stella) and earning nominations at the Independent Spirit Awards and Gotham Awards.
Tim’s Take: My Old Ass has just enough of a spin on the coming-of-age genre and that makes it worth watching at least once.
Frances Ha
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Noah Baumbach (Marriage Story, The Squid and the Whale) and Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird, Barbie).
Stars: Greta Gerwig (Little Women, 20th Century Women), Mickey Sumner (The Borgias, Low Winter Sun), Adam Driver (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Marriage Story), Michael Zegen (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Boardwalk Empire), and Grace Gummer (Mr. Robot, The Newsroom).
Synopsis:
Frances Ha is a black-and-white comedy-drama that follows Frances Halladay (Greta Gerwig), a 27-year-old aspiring dancer living in New York City. Frances shares a close bond with her best friend and roommate, Sophie (Mickey Sumner), but her life is upended when Sophie decides to move out and live with her boyfriend. Struggling to make ends meet, Frances bounces between temporary living situations, including crashing with friends Lev (Adam Driver) and Benji (Michael Zegen).
As Frances grapples with setbacks in her dance career and her evolving friendship with Sophie, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. From a spontaneous trip to Paris to reconnecting with her family in Sacramento, Frances learns to embrace her imperfections and find her own path. Frances Ha received critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical (Greta Gerwig) and an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Feature.
Tim’s Take: Maybe I came into this with high expectations due to its cult status, which affected my feelings towards the movie. I can definitely see why its highly regarded and it worth watching at least once.
Kneecap
WYALAN Rating: 3.5/5
Created by: Rich Peppiatt (One Rogue Reporter), with contributions from Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh.
Stars: Naoise Ó Cairealláin, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, JJ Ó Dochartaigh, Michael Fassbender (12 Years a Slave, X-Men), and Simone Kirby (Jimmy’s Hall, His Dark Materials).
Synopsis:
Kneecap is a semi-biographical comedy-drama that chronicles the rise of the Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap, set in the Gaeltacht Quarter of West Belfast. The story follows Liam (Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh) and Naoise (Naoise Ó Cairealláin), two young men from the “ceasefire generation,” who channel their frustrations and creativity into music. With the help of their teacher-turned-collaborator JJ (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), they create a unique blend of Irish-language rap that challenges societal norms and sparks a cultural revival.
As the trio gains popularity, they become unlikely figureheads for a movement to preserve the Irish language, navigating the challenges of fame, identity, and community. Kneecap premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won the NEXT Audience Award, and went on to win seven British Independent Film Awards, including Best British Independent Film and Best Joint Lead Performance for its stars.
Tim’s Take: Kneecap is much more than just a band coming together and gaining popularity plotline like The Commitments. The importance of Irish-language rap separates this from other similar films making it much more than just a comedy.