Buzz
This list highlights some hidden comedy gems that haven’t quite received the attention or acclaim they deserve. While they may have been overlooked or forgotten, they definitely merit at least one viewing. I’ve made sure to exclude films that appear in AFI or BAFTA’s all-time lists and avoided well-loved cult classics like Office Space, The Blues Brothers, Wayne’s World, and High Fidelity. Beyond that, these picks are a personal selection, so feel free to share your feedback, suggestions, and thoughts for discussion.
10. Little Big Man 1970
This film can be considered the Forrest Gump before Forrest Gump. Featuring Dustin Hoffman, it follows a similar storyline of an extraordinary life. Hoffman plays an average white man whose life takes a dramatic shift when he is captured and later adopted by Native Americans. The film is filled with humor as he navigates the tug-of-war between his white heritage and his new Native American upbringing. It's a quiet, understated film with a subtle comedic tone.
9. Lover Come Back 1961
A classic Rock Hudson and Doris Day comedy, filled with quick wit and hilarious exchanges between Rock Hudson and Tony Randall. Doris Day plays a no-nonsense, uptight woman, while Rock Hudson is the charming, street-smart smooth talker. Tony Randall adds his comedic touch with fantastic dialogue delivery. Though less well-known than Pillow Talk, another collaboration between Rock Hudson and Doris Day, this film is, in my opinion, the better one.
8. A New Leaf 1971
One of two Walter Matthau comedies featured here. The plot largely mirrors that of Arthur, a more famous film with a similar storyline—where a rich man chooses marriage to avoid losing his fortune. Directed by Elaine May, the film had its share of behind-the-scenes struggles, with the studio reportedly altering the script and interfering with her direction. Despite these challenges, the film is a hidden gem and a testament to Walter Matthau’s underappreciated talent as an actor.
7. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels 1988
Although it’s arguably the most famous film on this list, it’s so good that it can’t be overlooked. Michael Caine plays a cunning and calculating swindler, while Steve Martin portrays a fast-talking, street-smart (yet small-time) conman. This film is a classic showdown of two legendary actors vying to outdo one another, each delivering unforgettable performances.
6. Animals are Beautiful People 1977
The only documentary on this list, directed by Jamie Uys, the same director behind The Gods Must Be Crazy. This film takes you into the African desert to explore the lives of animals. A must-watch because it’s not your typical classic film. It’s a documentary with a humorous narrative that provides a fresh urban perspective on various animals—from birds to monkeys to insects—and compares their lives with human issues. The film introduces a new comedic approach.
5. Wag the Dog 1997
How this film gets overlooked on many funniest films lists is beyond me. It’s a perfect blend of imagination, making you think while you laugh. Inspired by the Clinton scandal, it was released before the scandal even happened, making it a rare example of real life mimicking reel life. It features the second Dustin Hoffman appearance on this list, supported by an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Anne Heche, and a memorable Woody Harrelson cameo.
4. Life 1999
No great comedy list would be complete without an Eddie Murphy classic. While it may not have the same fame as Beverly Hills Cop or Coming to America, this film is far superior. Eddie Murphy himself has said it's one of his personal favorites. Both Murphy and Martin Lawrence are in peak form throughout, supported by a strong cast including Bernie Mac. It’s puzzling why this film didn’t achieve commercial or critical success, especially considering it was even nominated for an Academy Award.
3. L’argent de Poche a.k.a. Small Change 1976
This film by Francis Truffaut focuses on children in a small French town. While Truffaut is famous for many other successful films, this one stands out for me due to its lighthearted and comical portrayal of childhood innocence, which resonates with adults as well. It’s a sweet, feel-good movie that leaves you with a light-hearted, happy feeling by the end.
2. The Fortune Cookie 1966
The second Walter Matthau film on this list pairs him with his close friend Jack Lemmon. For those familiar with The Odd Couple, this movie actually came first, and their chemistry here inspired the studio executives to cast them together in that iconic film. Arguably, it’s even funnier than The Odd Couple and won Matthau an Academy Award. One reason this comedic gem is often overlooked is its black-and-white format.
1. Sonatine 1993
One of the two non-English films featured on this list, directed by Takeshi Kitano. Fans of Kitano will likely be familiar with his more serious and acclaimed works like Hana-Bi or his American debut, Brother, although this film predates both of them. Sonatine, however, is filled with a dry, subtle humor that keeps you on edge. It balances moments where you're unsure whether to laugh, fearing you might miss a crucial line, and surprises you with deep, meaningful dialogues. In my opinion, it’s an incredibly underrated film.
