Intelligent comedies really aren't too easy to come by—or they're at least far less common. Simply put, most people want constant laughter, regardless of content. In other words, what most consider the be the best comedies of all time don't typically fall under the intelligent category. Be that as it may, it's not to say smart and clever comedies don't exist, or that they aren't funny. It's just the fact we all love dumb humor, and there's nothing wrong with that. That doesn't mean we can't enjoy a witty, intellectual, or sarcastic comedy movie every now and then.
Because, a great movie can certainly intertwine comedy and intelligence - or even take on social concerns - and it happens all the time. Even quintessential comedies can incorporate such elements sometimes. Whether it be a solid storyline, a strong setting, or even high-brow jokes, some of the big screen's top comedies do more than just make us laugh. The Truman Show is a prime example. While funny, the film also makes us feel emotion and think. The same goes for other funny flicks like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Groundhog Day and Burn After Reading, among many others. So, of all the clever and intelligent comedies out there, which are the best?
Check out the list of comedies below and vote up those you feel incorporate a little more into the story and ultimately warrant themselves a smart comedy. Feel free to add more to the list as well.
- 1
An eccentric band of medieval knights, led by the ever-resolute King Arthur, embark on a hilariously improbable quest for a fabled relic amid wild encounters - from bloodthirsty rabbits to limb-losing swordsmen. This witty romp through a ludicrous rendition of history will have you howling with laughter as the stellar troupe delivers their signature absurdity and sharp wit. John Cleese's uproarious depiction of Sir Lancelot steals the show in this timeless comedy landmark.
- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones
- 2
When an easygoing, unemployed bowler is mistaken for a millionaire philanthropist, he's thrust into a convoluted scheme involving kidnapping, ransom, and German nihilists. Jeff Bridges effortlessly embodies slackerdom as he abides by his own lackadaisical rules while dealing with eccentric characters, including John Goodman's hot-headed Walter Sobchak. Directed by the Coen brothers, this cult classic's situational humor and unforgettable one-liners elevate it to comedic greatness.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Joel Coen
- 3
Set in biblical times, an average man finds himself living in the shadow of a celebrated leader, fighting against oppression from both the Romans and his own people, while battling the silly dogmas, inflated egos, and bureaucratic headaches set on ruining his life.
- Released: 1979
- Directed by: Terry Jones
- 4
Bill Murray stars as a weatherman doomed to live the same day over and over again in this intelligent comedy that explores themes of existentialism, self-improvement, and the nature of time. As Phil Connors navigates his inescapable loop, the film brilliantly experiments with the comedic possibilities of each iteration of events. Harold Ramis's sharp direction elevates Groundhog Day to more than just a gimmick, as it captures the audience's imagination with its clever blend of humor and heart.
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Harold Ramis
- 5
In this wry commentary on the mundanity of corporate life, a software engineer undergoes hypnotherapy and awakens with a newfound disregard for his tedious job and the oppressive environment it engenders. Ron Livingston delivers a pitch-perfect performance, resonating with disgruntled workers everywhere, while Jennifer Aniston shines as a like-minded waitress looking for something more. Mike Judge's uproarious satire cleverly lampoons the daily grind, offering a cathartic escape for those trapped in a similar bureaucratic purgatory.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Mike Judge
- 6
Taking to the skies has never been so absurdly comedic as an ensemble of eccentric passengers aboard a doomed flight discover when they're confronted with bizarre dilemmas, sight gags aplenty, and recurring spoofs of classic disaster film tropes in this irreverent send-up.
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, Jerry Zucker
