Nothing feels as good as a deep, genuine laugh. It’s an expression of joy! It’s a workout. It’s a sign that you’re having a good time.
Netflix has a dazzling selection of comedy movie that put that good-time feeling on demand. Whether you’re craving action-spiked shenanigans, quirky coming-of-age adventures, awkward humor, stranger-than-fiction silliness, madcap musical numbers, or crime with a dash of comedy, there’s a perfect pick for you. And we’ve made singling it out all the easier by highlighting the most hilarious below.
Note: We’ve ranked Netflix’s best stand-up specials and romantic comedies separately.
Here, in no particular order, are the 20 funniest movies now streaming on Netflix.
20. Bullet Train
If you like your comedy with in-your-face action, you should race to check out this 2022 romp from Deadpool 2 director David Leitch. It’s a high-octane film that asks the classic question: “What happens if you pile a bunch of assassins onto one bullet train through Japan?” The answer is delightfully daffy carnage.
Brad Pitt leads a star-studded cast as a merc who’s lost his bloodlust. What’s supposed to be a simple snatch-and-go job turns dangerously complicated as he crosses paths with a cavalcade of curious characters, all of whom are rocking code names like Tangerine, Lemon, Wolf, The Prince, The Hornet, and White Death. Rapid-fire wit is wielded by the likes of Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Michael Shannon, Bad Bunny, Andrew Koji, Hiroyuki Sanada, Joey King, Zazie Beetz, and Sandra Bullock. Also wielded? Every form of weapon you can imagine, from guns and knives to poison, wild animals, and even a well-traveled water bottle. Sound cool? Catch it while you can. —Kristy Puchko, Film Editor
How to watch: Bullet Train is now streaming on Netflix.
19. The ‘Burbs
Seeking something that taps into the unique brand of outrageousness that takes root in the suburbs? Then, you’ll want to revisit this 1989 gem from Gremlins director Joe Dante.
Tom Hanks stars as a stressed-out family man who is desperately trying to relax, but his neighbors won’t let that happen on their watch. First comes speculation about the new family on the block. Then comes conspiracy theories, an MIA grouch, and… Is that a femur in your backyard!? This kooky horror-comedy comes alive with a crackerjack cast that includes Bruce Dern, Corey Feldman, Carrie Fisher, and B-movie icon Dick Miller. Together, they deliver a romp that is as twisted as it is entertaining. —K.P.
How to watch: The ‘Burbs is now streaming on Netflix.
18. 21 Jump Street
It seemed highly unlikely that anyone could update a ludicrous TV show where grown-ass adult cops go fight crime in high schools into anything resembling a good movie. Yet, somehow Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs helmers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s live-action debut was equal parts hilarious, smart, bro-ishly sweet (as all Channing Tatum flicks should be), and packed full of action.
With a goofily propulsive script by co-star Jonah Hill — back when he was still getting typecast as that Superbad dork — and Michael Bacall, and strong supporting performances by Dave Franco, Rob Riggle, Brie Larson, Holly Robinson Peete, and yes, Ice Cube, 21 Jump Street had its very own mid-aughts moment worth revisiting. And keep your eyes peeled for a now-controversial cameo. —Jenni Miller, Freelance Contributor
How to watch: 21 Jump Street is now streaming on Netflix.
17. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Credit: Universal pictures
First off, Scott Pilgrim’s friends are right to give him shit for dating a high schooler, even if they haven’t even held hands. He is 23 and she is 17, and much too cool for him anyway. With that out of the way, Edgar Wright’s whip-smart adaptation of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s beloved graphic novels is riotous fun, and makes a freezing winter in Toronto’s indie rock slacker scene come colourfully alive.
It’s packed right to the margins with stars — from a pre-Marvel Chris Evans and Brie Larson, to an early-career Aubrey Plaza at her glorious meanest and a note-perfect Kieran Culkin performance that now reads as a proto-Roman Roy — soundtracked by original songs from Beck and other indie favourites, and punctuated by a series of over-the-top fights that put your favorite arcade games to shame. It’s endlessly rewatchable, quotable, and loveable. —Caitlin Welsh, Australian Editor
How to watch: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is now streaming on Netflix
16. Between Two Ferns: The Movie
Credit: Adam Rose/NETFLIX
Zach Galifianakis’s awkward celebrity interview web series Between Two Ferns might not seem like fodder for a full-length movie, but Between Two Ferns: The Movie goes double meta by presenting his success on Funny or Die as an insult to the actor’s intention to host a “serious” interview show. Galifianakis the character sets off to correct the assumption that his original show is a joke by interviewing even more celebrities, like John Cho, Keanu Reeves, Gal Gadot, Tiffany Haddish, and more. —Alexis Nedd, Senior Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: Between Two Ferns: The Movie is now streaming on Netflix
15. Do Revenge
Credit: Netflix
Looking for a revenge flick that pays tribute to teen classics like Mean Girls, Heathers, Cruel Intentions, and more? Then check out Do Revenge, a dark comedy sure to join the canon of iconic high school movies. Students Drea (Camila Mendes) and Eleanor (Maya Hawke) couldn’t be more different… apart from the fact that both have major bones to pick with people who ruined their reputations. They decide to team up and execute one another’s revenge plans, which leads down a winding road of morally dubious choices, snappy one-liners, and excellent outfits.
Mendes and Hawke have great chemistry, but it’s Sophie Turner who damn near steals the show in a bit part that simply must be seen to be believed.* —Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: Do Revenge is now streaming on Netflix.
14. A Knight’s Tale
Credit: Moviestore/Shutterstock
Hot off the success of the contemporary Shakespearean adaptation 10 Things I Hate About You, Heath Ledger returned to the spotlight in another anachronistic mash-up of love and romance. And it had plenty of action to boot!
Born a humble thatcher’s son, Will (Ledger) seems destined to live a life of poverty and no consequence. Well, that is until he masquerades as a knight with a little help from his friends (Alan Tudyk, Mark Addy, and Paul Bettany). Together, they build a legend of a champion, pitching Will into jousting competitions for money and love. Because of course amid scenes of horse-striding battle, there’s also time for romance with a devastatingly chic princess (Shannyn Sossamon).
Written and directed by Brian Helgeland, A Knight’s Tale blends a medieval fable with modern sensibilities, a rockin’ soundtrack, and the vibes of a teen comedy with a rousing sports epic. It’s an intoxicating blend that’s sure to make your heart race and your belly rock with laughter. –K.P.
Where to watch: A Knight’s Tale is streaming on Netflix.
13. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Credit: Piki Films/Kobal/Shutterstock
This 2016 adventure about bad egg Ricky Baker (Julian Dennison) and his curmudgeonly foster father Hec (Sam Neill) is the kind of eccentric delight that writer/director Taika Waititi specializes in (this time co-writing with Barry Crump, who wrote the original book).
After losing his foster mother, Ricky flees into the forests of New Zealand; Hec pursues him, only to realize he doesn’t feel the need to return to civilization either. Together, they become the wilderpeople, living off the land and evading capture from authorities, including Thor: Ragnarok‘s Rachel House. Wilderpeople is equal parts stirring, hilarious, and absurd — a silly yet sentimental story of found family and adventure that can be loved by all. —Proma Khosla, Senior Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: Hunt for the Wilderpeople is now streaming on Netflix
12. Always Be My Maybe
What if the one who got away got a second chance? Back in the day, Sasha and Marcus were tight as a slap bracelet. But one fumbled night in a sweaty backseat seemed to shatter their future together.
15 years later, she’s a world-renowned chef and he’s — well — he’s working for his dad’s HVAC business and playing with his band on the side. Still, fate arranges for them to reconnect, which could mean Marcus (Randall Park) has a shot to show Sasha (Ali Wong) how he feels. Comedy ensues as the stakes get high when Keanu Reeves crashes the party, being all weird and hot and having the audacity to be Keanu Reeves! This Nahnatchka Khan-helmed laffer also boasts appearances by James Saito, Charlyne Yi, Karan Soni, Daniel Dae Kim, and Michelle Buteau.* —K.P.
How to watch: Always Be My Maybe is now streaming on Netflix.
11. Sorry To Bother You
There really is nothing like Sorry To Bother You, which is a damn rare thing to say about a film these days. Writer/director Boots Riley’s 2018 comedy remains one of the most unique visions, both in style and in social commentary, that we’ve seen in years.
A blistering satire about a Black telemarketer (LaKeith Stanfield) who soars to success at work by using his “white voice,” Sorry To Bother You is as funny as it is outrageously surreal. It’s also horrifying in the way Riley so acutely captures the reality of living under capitalism and white supremacy. If you enjoyed the surrealist social commentary of Atlanta Season 3 and can get on board with a movie that’s unafraid to go fully off the rails, please treat yourself to Sorry To Bother You ASAP.* —Oliver Whitney, Freelance Contributor
How to watch: Sorry to Bother You is now streaming on Netflix.
10. Dolemite Is My Name
Credit: François Duhamel/NETFLIX
Chronicling the true story of late comedian Rudy Ray Moore — also known as Dolemite — this Eddie Murphy vehicle is worth every minute of viewing.
An outrageous showbiz comedy, Dolemite Is My Name is at once a poignant look at the life of an underdog and an unbelievably good time. With supporting performances by Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Wesley Snipes, Craig Robinson, and more, this biopic offers more beat-for-beat joy than many fictional laughers. Sensational, aspirational, and electric, you’ll love it. —Alison Foreman, Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: Dolemite Is My Name is now streaming on Netflix.
9. Hail, Caesar!
Credit: Alison Cohen Rosa/Universal/Working Title/Kobal/Shutterstock
This star-stuffed, Golden Age Hollywood-set farce has a bit of a rep as a second-tier Coen brothers joint. But “Not as good as The Big Lebowski” is both a high bar and still a better time than most of the movies you’ll ever see.
Following a colorful collection of kooky characters, it’s a lush and loopy good time. Channing Tatum does his best Gene Kelly in a truly spectacular musical number that puts the naughty in nautical. Tilda Swinton plays rival gossip columnists who are twins to boot. There’s Alden Ehrenreich and Ralph Fiennes’s instant classic “Would that it were so simple” bit. Then, of course, the Coens bring the best out of George Clooney, with a fresh opportunity to do that self-serving buffoon schtick. Altogether, it’s a hoot. —C.W.
How to watch: Hail, Caesar! is now streaming on Netflix
8. The Polka King
Credit: Netflix
Sometimes true crime can lead to some pitch-perfect dark comedy. This is the case for this outrageous offering, which stars Jack Black as infamous scammer/local celebrity Jan Lewan. Black brings all the rock star panache you need to understand how Lewan could be so beguiling to the Pennsylvanian retirees who surrendered their savings to the self-proclaimed Polka King.
Screenwriters Maya Forbes and Wallace Wolodarsky gave this story of fraud and showmanship shape. But they wisely trusted in the local flare of the terrific 2009 documentary The Man Who Would Be Polka King to provide some of the wildest lines of dialogue. Plucking directly from interviews with the friends, family, and victims of Jan Lewan, this comedy feels stranger than fiction but is jaw-droppingly real. Salty supporting turns from Jenny Slate, Jacki Weaver, and Jason Schwartzman bring added fun.* —K.P.
How to watch: The Polka King is now streaming on Netflix.
7. The Breaker Upperers
This hidden gem comes from New Zealand, the fertile comedy ground that gave us Taika Waititi, Flight of the Conchords, and What We Do in the Shadows. Waititi collaborators Jackie van Beek, James Rolleston, and Jemaine Clement team up for a deeply quirky buddy comedy about two long-time besties with a bonkers — but brilliant — business model.
Need someone to dump your partner so you can avoid a messy confrontation? Call on Jen and Mel (co-writers/co-directors/co-leads van Beek and Madeleine Sami). For a reasonable fee, these fearless Breaker Upperers will impersonate police officers, play pregnant, or even fake your death to help you ghost an ex. Whatever the shenanigans, van Beek and Sami sparkle. Booming with wild humor and big heart, this comedy is guaranteed to leave you cackling.* —K.P.
Where to watch: The Breaker Upperers is streaming on Netflix.
6. The Mitchells vs. The Machines
Credit: NETFLIX
Sony Pictures Animation has given audiences such daring and dynamic animated movies as Surf’s Up, Hotel Transylvania, and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. This zany 2021 release centers on a family who’s battling back the robo-apocalypse with togetherness, internet savviness, and a wall-eyed pug named Monchi (voiced by social media icon Doug The Pug).
The Mitchells’ adventure into chaos begins when daughter Katie (Abbi Jacobson) is poised to go off to college. Desperate for one last family-unifying road trip, her dad (Danny McBride) piles the whole family into his beater of a vehicle, unknowingly charting a fateful route into heroics. Director Mike Rianda infuses Katie’s excitable perspective throughout the film by working in internet memes, social media-style reactions, and blitz of bonkers visuals. It’s a bold move that might alienate some viewers but has largely won the acclaim of critics and kiddos.* —K.P.
How to watch: The Mitchells vs. The Machines is streaming on Netflix.
5. The Nice Guys
If you’re a sucker for black comedy, witty dialogue, ’70s style, and/or odd-couple comedic duos, it doesn’t get much nicer than The Nice Guys. Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling play a pair of washed-up private investigators who reluctantly join forces to search for a missing woman (Margaret Qualley) in 1977 Los Angeles — with occasional assistance from the former’s clever teenage daughter, played by Angourie Rice.
Though the mystery takes the gang to the farthest reaches of the city, burrowing deep into rabbit holes and brushing up against all manner of eccentrics, it’s the unexpected chemistry between Crowe and Gosling that really keeps this engine running, and it’ll leave you wishing for more where that came from.* — Angie Han, Deputy Entertainment Editor
How to watch: The Nice Guys is now streaming on Netflix.
4. Paddington
Credit: Moviestore/Shutterstock
Inspired by Michael Bond’s beloved children’s books, Paddington is a critically heralded romp that blends a crackerjack live-action cast (Hugh Bonneville! Sally Hawkins! Julie Walters! Peter Capaldi!) with an adorable CGI bear (voiced by Ben Whishaw) who wears a blue coat and cherishes marmalade.
Traveling from the jungles of Peru to London, the titular bear is reluctantly taken in by the Brown family. But as cultures collide, Paddington’s freedom —indeed, his very life! — are threatened by an overzealous taxidermist (a gamely over-the-top Nicole Kidman) who is ruthlessly determined to make him her next specimen! Full of whimsy, wit, and warmth, Paddington is a jolly delight that demands rewatching.* —K.P.
Where to watch: Paddington is streaming on Netflix.
3. Vampires vs. the Bronx
Credit: Netflix
Want a movie that’s got excitement, comedy, a scorching message about the evils of gentrification, and is a kid-friendly romp? Then take a bite out of Vampires vs. the Bronx.
Oz Perkins’s PG-13 horror-comedy centers on Afro-Latino teens who recognize that a flurry of missing person posters and an influx of rich white folks with tote bags means bad news for the neighborhood. Together, they team up Monster Squad-style to take down the bloodsuckers and save their community. With a sharp wit, a warm heart, a rich sense of atmosphere, and an equal appreciation for the Blade movies and ’80s Amblin, Vampires vs. the Bronx is an easy watch full of rewards.* —K.P.
How to watch: Vampires vs. the Bronx is now streaming on Netflix.
2. Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga
Credit: John Wilson/NETFLIX
With its reputation for wacky musical numbers, the Eurovision Song Contest is ripe for parody. Luckily for Eurovision lovers, the contest gets the send-up it deserves in this gloriously goofy flick starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams. They play the Icelandic musical duo Fire Saga, who find themselves in the Eurovision spotlight. There, they discover that the famed competition is a world of cutthroat competitors, glitzy costumes, and many, many bops.
Eurovision Song Contest is full of larger-than-life characters and ridiculous humor, but it’s also teeming with Eurovision references that will have fans laughing and cheering. For every “Jaja Ding Dong,” there’s a joyful Song-A-Long — and both are great! Pair all that with pitch-perfect comedic performances from Ferrell and McAdams, and you have a comedy that will have both have you in stitches and win your heart. (Best of all, if you weren’t a Eurovision fanatic before seeing this movie, you’ll definitely be one by the time it ends.)* —B.E.
How to watch: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is now streaming on Netflix.
1. Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Credit: FilmPublicityArchive/United Arch
Made up of Graham Chapman, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, John Cleese, Michael Palin, and Terry Gilliam, the comedy troupe Monty Python are the uncontested kings of comedy, so it’s only fitting that we raise a glass to their most popular film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Sure, Life of Brian has iconoclastic fun with Bible stories — and a toe-tapping sound number to boot! But many of the crew’s most memorable characters tumble forth in this parody of Arthurian lore.
From the Knights Who Say “Ni!” to the dreaded Rabbit of Caerbannog to a taunting Frenchman to the Black Knight who’ll never say die, Holy Grail is overflowing with madcap comedy. It’s endlessly quotable, stupidly funny, and captures everything that made this comedy team spectacular. Not to mention, it forever changed how we see coconuts, swallows, hamsters, and elderberries. —K.P. & A.F.
How to watch: Monty Python and the Holy Grail is now streaming on Netflix.
Asterisks (*) indicate the entry comes from a previous Mashable list.
UPDATE: Jan. 5, 2023, 11:51 a.m. EST This story was originally published in March 2020, updated in August 2021, and refreshed in January 2023 to reflect the current selection on Netflix.
