13 Underrated Comedy Films That Deserve More Love

Comedy films have the power to make us laugh and forget about our worries, but some hidden gems often go unnoticed. While blockbuster comedies often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of underrated films that deserve more recognition. These movies may not have gotten the attention they deserve when they first hit theaters, but their clever writing, quirky characters, and unique humor still make them worth watching. Whether you’re a fan of dark humor, satire, or slapstick comedy, there’s something for everyone on this list.

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The Dish (2000)

This Australian comedy is based on the true story of the pivotal role a satellite dish played during the 1969 moon landing. A small town in Australia hosts a group of quirky scientists and technicians tasked with relaying the historic broadcast to the world. The film captures their struggles with technical mishaps and humorous interactions, offering a refreshing take on historical events.

While the plot has a serious backdrop, the humor comes from the lovable characters and their unexpected adventures. The film’s charm lies in its lighthearted tone and its celebration of teamwork in the face of adversity, making it a hidden gem in the comedy genre.

In the Loop (2009)

In the Loop is a political satire that follows a group of bumbling politicians and their staff as they navigate the world of diplomacy. The film’s humor is sharp, quick, and full of witty dialogue, making it a standout for fans of clever comedy. The interactions between the characters, often filled with misunderstandings and power plays, add layers to the humor.

The film thrives in its portrayal of the absurdity behind the political machine, offering a dark yet humorous lens on government decision-making. In the Loop has developed a loyal following for its unique approach, and it remains one of the most underrated comedies to date.

The Foot Fist Way (2006)

This offbeat comedy centers around a down-and-out martial arts instructor named Fred Simmons, played by Danny McBride. As Fred faces challenges in his personal life, his world unravels in the most comical and unexpected ways. The film has an absurd quality that keeps viewers engaged as Fred’s overconfidence leads him into increasingly ridiculous situations.

Despite its low budget, The Foot Fist Way showcases McBride’s unique comedic style, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into a character’s delusional confidence. It’s a perfect film for those who enjoy a bit of dark humor paired with off-the-wall absurdity.

The Station Agent (2003)

The Station Agent explores the life of a man named Finbar McBride, who seeks solace in an abandoned train station after the death of his friend. What follows is a touching, yet humorous, exploration of friendship and loneliness. While the film has its serious moments, the humor comes from the interactions between its eccentric characters and the slow burn of their connections.

The film is full of quirky, offbeat moments that bring out the charm of its cast. The Station Agent’s subtle approach to comedy and drama sets it apart from more mainstream fare, earning it a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate more thoughtful humor.

Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006)

This dark comedy follows Zia, a young man who, after taking his own life, finds himself in a bizarre afterlife filled with oddball characters. While the premise may sound heavy, the film is surprisingly light-hearted, exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption in a unique and often funny way. The film’s quirky tone and memorable characters make it a standout in the genre.

Wristcutters: A Love Story offers a perfect mix of humor and heartbreak. It brings together strange situations and tender moments, making it a comedy that touches on deeper emotions while still being entertaining and witty.

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013)

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone stars Steve Carell as a once-famous magician struggling to regain his position in the spotlight. Alongside his partner, played by Steve Buscemi, Burt faces new challenges in the form of a younger, more daring rival magician. The film brings an interesting blend of slapstick comedy with an exploration of the ridiculousness of celebrity.

The humor in the film largely comes from the absurdity of the magic world and the eccentric personalities involved. It is a surprisingly heartfelt comedy that focuses on friendship, rivalry, and personal growth, making it an underrated gem in Carell’s filmography.

The Art of Self-Defense (2019)

This dark comedy follows a man named Casey, played by Jesse Eisenberg, who decides to take up karate after being attacked on the street. What begins as an attempt to defend himself quickly turns into a deeper, more absurd journey into masculinity and identity. The film’s humor is dark and subtle, but it offers an insightful commentary on modern insecurities.

The Art of Self-Defense stands out because it cleverly mixes biting satire with deadpan humor. It’s an oddly funny exploration of self-perception, and the film offers a unique look at how absurd it can be to try and conform to societal expectations.

The Nice Guys (2016)

The Nice Guys is a buddy cop comedy that takes place in 1970s Los Angeles. Starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe, the film follows the mismatched pair as they investigate the disappearance of a young woman, uncovering a larger conspiracy. The humor comes from the contrasting personalities of the two leads, with Gosling’s neurotic character providing a perfect foil to Crowe’s stoic demeanor.

The Nice Guys is a well-crafted, hilarious movie that deserves more recognition. The chemistry between the leads, combined with the nostalgic 70s setting, makes it a unique comedy that stands out from other buddy cop films.

Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)

Safety Not Guaranteed is a quirky indie comedy that tells the story of three journalists who investigate a classified ad seeking a partner to time travel. The film blends elements of science fiction with humor as the characters navigate the eccentricities of the man who placed the ad. While the premise is strange, the film is a heartwarming exploration of relationships and self-discovery.

The humor in Safety Not Guaranteed is gentle and often reflective, with a unique balance of light-heartedness and emotional depth. It remains one of the more underrated films in recent years, with a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate its offbeat charm.

The Little Hours (2017)

The Little Hours is a bawdy, medieval comedy that takes place in a convent, where a group of nuns live their lives in a rather unorthodox manner. The film’s humor revolves around the clash of their devout vows and their absurd, often rebellious actions. It’s a refreshingly unrestrained comedy that is both raunchy and surprisingly touching.

The Little Hours offers a unique blend of humor and history, filled with absurd moments that challenge traditional portrayals of religious life. It is a film that will appeal to those who enjoy unconventional, irreverent comedy.

The House (2017)

In this comedy, Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler star as parents who start an illegal casino in their basement to pay for their daughter’s college tuition. The film combines Ferrell’s typical brand of humor with Poehler’s quick wit, creating a dynamic and fun viewing experience. The premise of two regular parents getting involved in criminal activity is both ridiculous and hilarious.

Despite receiving mixed reviews, The House offers plenty of laughs thanks to its unique concept and great chemistry between the leads. The comedic moments hit hard, especially as the stakes escalate and the family’s life spirals out of control.

They Came Together (2014)

A spoof of romantic comedies, They Came Together parodies every cliché and trope you can imagine. The film stars Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler, who play two people who meet, fall in love, and experience all the predictable ups and downs of a rom-com, but with exaggerated absurdity. The humor is fast-paced and self-aware, making it a standout for fans of satire.

While it may not have gained widespread attention, the film’s cleverness and humor make it a must-watch for anyone tired of the typical rom-com formula. It’s a laugh-out-loud satire that mocks the genre while still delivering plenty of funny moments.

A Serious Man (2009)

A Serious Man is a dark comedy from the Coen brothers that tells the story of Larry Gopnik, a Midwestern man whose life seems to be falling apart at every turn. The film’s humor is deeply existential, poking fun at the absurdity of life and the constant struggle to find meaning. It’s a quiet, offbeat comedy that may require more patience but rewards viewers with its intricate storytelling.

The film’s understated style and quirky characters make it stand out in the Coen brothers’ catalog. While the comedy may be subtle, it’s both profound and hilarious, offering a unique perspective on human nature and the complexity of existence.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.