Coming up with a list of the top 100 best comedy movies of all time was no easy task. Just the last decade alone has produced scores of uproariously funny movies. However, filmmakers haven’t only recently begun to make moviegoers laugh. For close to a century comedies have been a staple in Hollywood. I tried to balance my list between contemporary stuff without forgetting about the legendary films that made the industry what it is today. With that little disclaimer out of the way, let’s get too it. Here are my picks for the top 100 funniest movies of all time:
 


100 – Fletch

Though his best known character is undoubtedly Clark Griswold from National Lampoon’s Vacation series of movies, Chevy Chase has played several memorable characters over the years. Fletch, a sarcastic journalist who acts more like a private detective is one of his best. I recently re-watched this film, and though it is now 25 years old it has withstood the test of time admirably.

99 – The Jerk

Another former Saturday Night Live cast member makes my #99 spot. Steve Martin is brilliant in the lead role, as an utter moron that would have fit in nicely along with Harry Dunne and Lloyd Christmas in Dumb and Dumber. Despite his mental deficiencies he manages to invent something that makes him rich beyond his wildest dreams.

98 – Fubar

Being Canadian I always like to include a little Canuck content on these lists. That being said, Fubar doesn’t squeak onto the list because of personal bias. It is an absolutely hilarious movie. The adventures of Terry and Dean – two headbangers who live to party and drink Pilsner – will have you laughing non-stop.

97 – The Heartbreak Kid (Original)

Though I quite liked Ben Stiller’s recent remake of this film I think I am in the minority. As much as I enjoyed the raunchy humor of the remake I have to admit the original, starring Charles Grodin and Cybill Shepherd, is the superior film.

96 – Mrs. Doubtfire

Yes, there is no shortage of movies where a man has dressed up as a woman in order to get laughs. However, few have been done as well as Robin Williams’ turn as Euphegenia Doubtfire. Williams plays a divorcee who takes desperate measure – dressing up as a female housekeeper – in order to spend time with his kids.

95 – The Great Outdoors

The late John Candy is an absolute comedy legend and you’ll find his work interspersed through this list. He teams up with fellow funnyman Dan Akroyd in this funny camping adventure. There is a ton of classic scenes in this film, and Candy’s attempt at the Ol’ 96er always cracks me up.

94 – Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle

The list of the top 100 comedies of all time wouldn’t be complete without a few stoner buddy movies. The plot is simple. Harold and Kumar get baked then spend the remainder of the movie trying to reach a White Castle in order to obtain the sliders that will calm their munchies. They have plenty of strange encounters along the way, including an encounter with Neil Patrick Harris who nearly manages to steal the movie during his brief screen time.

93 – Beetle Juice

Though in the latter part of his career Michael Keaton has become known for his dramatic work, in the early days he was one of the funniest actors in the business. His signature role is undoubtedly that of Beetle Juice, a ghostly exterminator who is hired by two recently deceased newlyweds who want their house cleared out. Unfortunately they didn’t read the fine print and Beetle Juice becomes the biggest pest of all.

92 – Good Morning Vietnam

Robin Williams makes another appearance on the list of the funniest movies ever with this war time comedy. Williams is perfectly cast as Adrian Cronauer, an energetic radio DJ who defies every high authority in an effort to bring a little joy into the lives of men and women caught in a dismal situation.

91 – Stepbrothers

If you like your comedy low brow then this is the film for you. Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly show great chemistry once again as a pair of 40ish year old losers who are forced to bunk together when their respective “single parents” marry one another.

90 – Porky’s

Speaking of low brow humor, it doesn’t get any lower than this. Porky’s is an 80s cult classic, and every teenage boy wanted to rent this film back in the day. The acting is terrible and the plot is laughable, but the classic scenes in this movie – particularly the shower scene with Miss Balbricker – earn it a spot on the list.

89 – Trading Places

Fellow SNL cast members, Eddie Murphy and Dan Akroyd team up in this classic about a con artist and an investor forced to switch personas. The film is a forgotten gem on Murphy’s resume and was a springboard that really helped take his career from SNL sketch artist to big screen comedy legend.

88 – Big

Like Michael Keaton, Tom Hanks was once best known as a comedic actor. Though he already had several roles under his belt at the time, it can be argued that 1987′s Big was his coming out party, and the role that launched him into the stratosphere of A-list leading man.

87 – Best in Show

This “mockumentary” might not appeal to everyone reading this list, but if you can the right kind of sense of humor this hilarious take on the world of dog show competitors will have you laughing out loud throughout. Writers Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy also star, lending their tremendous comedic talents to the film.

86 – Shaun of the Dead

There have been plenty of horror movie spoofs over the years, but few have parodied the genre as well as this British comedy. Simon Pegg is at his goofy best as a man who decides to turn his life around in one fell swoop, and woe to any brain-eating zombies who get in the way.

85 – Team America: World Police

Easily offended? You might want to steer clear of this film. Trey Parker and Matt Stone – creators of South Park – pull no punches in this puppet-based comedy that pokes fun of just about every race, religion, and political belief out there.

84 – Knocked Up

Seth Rogen is now one of Hollywood’s biggest comedic leading men, and he has this role to thank for it. Technically, this is a romantic comedy, but one guys can enjoy too! Rogen plays Ben Stone, a pot-smoking slacker who hooks up with a career driven TV personality for one drunken night and eight weeks later discovers he’s going to be a father.

83 – Happy Gilmore

Granted, Adam Sandler seems to play the same character in just about every movie, but he plays that character well. One of his most memorable personas was that of Happy Gilmore, a washed out hockey player who discovers a talent for golf, and uses that ability to try and save his grandmother’s house. This is one of those movies with a ton of quotable lines, and the scene with Bob Barker is one of the most iconic in the comedy genre.

82 – City Slickers

Though I’ll admit to lean towards the raunchy comedy end of the spectrum I had to make sure to recognize the place of the family comedy when creating this list of funny movies. City Slickers, starring Billy Crystal, is perfect family fare. Crystal, Bruno Kirby and Daniel Stern are all funny as three city guys who decide that an old west style cattle drive would be the answer to their midlife crises. Jack Palance steals the show as the hard-bitten rancher Curly, and his personality conflicts with Crystal’s character Mitch make the movie.

81 – What About Bob?

You knew it was only a matter of time until Bill Murray appeared on the list. Another SNL alum, Murray has been one of the funniest men in TV and movies for more than three decades. He’s superlative as an obsessive-compulsive who tracks down his therapist – on holiday with his family – and torments him with his behavior.

80 – Talladega Nights

Arguably the biggest name in comedy movies right now, Will Ferrell has been churning out one hit after another since making the transition from TV to the big screen. Talladega Nights is a fantastic spoof of the racing film, Days of Thunder. John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen and Gary Cole are all terrific in support.

79 – Wayne’s World

Though most people watching this movie for the first time now would find the humor goofy and irrelevant, at the time of its 1992 it had audiences howling with laughter. Mike Myers and Dana Carvey are perfect as Wayne and Garth, a pair of metal-heads who gain notoriety by hosting their own public access TV show.

78 – Cheech and Chong: Up in Smoke

I mentioned above their would be some stoner buddy movies on this list, and this one challenges as a shining example of that particular comedy sub-genre. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong are stellar as a pair of stoners who unwittingly smuggle a van made of marijuana – not containing, but made of marijuana – from Mexico to Los Angeles.

77 – The Wedding Singer

Another romantic comedy that both guys and girls can enjoy, The Wedding Singer will hold particular appeal for those who grew up in the 80s. Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler have great onscreen chemistry, and the culmination of the film will have the girls reaching for the Kleenex box.

76 – Three Amigos

Not exactly Oscar-winning fare, but few films on this list meet that criteria, Three Amigos stars three of the biggest names in comedy from the 80s: Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short. The three play unemployed actors who are duped into working for a Mexican gang leader. Once they figure out they are not on TV the three bumbling actors take on the role of heroes, defending oppressed Mexican villagers from the cruel gang leader.

75 – Pineapple Express

Seth Rogen nabs another spot on the list of funniest movies. This time he is teamed up with James Franco, who was a pleasant surprise in a comedic role. Though the action gets a little goofily over-the-top in the end sequence this is still a very funny movie with particular appeal to the stoner crowd.

74 – Hot Shots!

Say what you will about the train wreck that is Charlie Sheen’s personal life, this guy is a funny actor. Long before he was cracking audiences up in Two and a Half Men, Sheen was making a living as a big screen actor. This parody of the movie, Top Gun is very much in the spirit of the film, Airplane!, and while it is not quite in that league it delivers plenty of laughs.

73 – Dazed and Confused

One of the most underrated movies of the 90s, Dazed and Confused has since gained a cult following, and is finally earning the respect it deserves as both a comedy and a coming of age film. Sharp-eyed viewers will recognize big name actors like Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck, whose movie careers were just getting started back then. One more thing: best movie soundtrack of all time!

72 – Uncle Buck

John Candy stars as a grifter who gets a life lesson from his nephew and nieces when a family emergency leaves him in charge. He makes a poor father figure at first, but learns quickly thanks to the kids. A young Macaulay Culkin plays Buck’s nephew and is every bit as good as he was in Home Alone.

71 – Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy

I don’t know anyone that didn’t laugh at this movie. Classic lines like, “I want to be on you” and “60% of the time, it works every time” are still widely quoted today. Though the movie goes off the rails a bit in the second half, it is still a really funny film and the role that Will Ferrell was born to play. Great supporting work by Christina Applegate, Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd and David Koechner is just icing on the cake.

70 – My Big Fat Greek Wedding

A true underdog story, this independent film was a massive hit back in 2002 and launched writer and star Nia Vardalos into international superstardom for a time. A romantic comedy the film won’t appeal to all demographics (what film does) but even jaded viewers will enjoy the bride-to-be’s father Gus Portokalos and his conviction that Windex is a universal cure-all.

69 – Tommy Boy

Another great comedian that died before his time, Chris Farley was one of the most popular SNL actors of his era. He translated that success to the big screen, and while he churned out a few stinkers, his film Tommy Boy is a cult comedy classic. He and David Spade play off each other perfectly in this hilarious flick about a moron forced to strain his brain cells to keep the auto business he inherits out of the hands of unscrupulous competition.

68 – Super Troopers

Speaking of cult comedies, there are few more popular than this one. Comedy troupe Broken Lizard peaked with this 2001 film about a group of highway patrolmen fighting for their jobs against a group of corrupt local cops. They disdain the very laws they’ve sworn to uphold in the most hilarious fashion, and the antics of Farva, Rabbit, Thorny will have you laughing non-stop. Rumor has it that the crew is thinking about Super Troopers 2. One can only dream.

67 – Beverly Hills Cop

While Trading Places established Eddie Murphy as a big screen actor, it was this 1984 film that really thrust him into Hollywood superstardom. One of the highest grossing movies ever at the time, Beverly Hills Cop drew audiences in droves as the buzz spread. The film about a foul-mouthed, yet charismatic Detroit detective who goes to L.A. to solve a murder spawned a pair of sequels, but neither could live up to the high standard set by the original.

66 – Broadcast News

This film definitely has more critically acclaimed star power than the majority of the films on this list. With Jack Nicholson, Holly Hunter, William Hurt and Albert Brooks in the cast the acting is a notch above the usual raunchy comedy flair. Yes, this film about television news journalism may require viewers to think a little more than usual, but it is still a very funny film for those with more discerning comedic tastes.

65 – The Gods Must Be Crazy

An African Bushman’s quest to throw an evil coke bottle off the end of the world might sound like a ludicrous plot, but it works in this instance. The main character speaks in a series of clicks, but clever narration helps keeps the audience engaged as Xi takes one for the tribe, leaving behind his friends and family as he undertakes a perilous quest to dispose of this questionable “gift” from the gods.

64 – Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan

Borat is another film that you’ll want to stay far away from if you are easily offended. This movie appeals only to a small demographic, but that particular demographic will find it hilarious. Everyone else will find it reprehensible and downright stomach-turning at times.

63 – Spaceballs

Comic legend Mel Brooks directs this spoof of the popular sci-fi Star Wars franchise. Bill Pullman, John Candy, and Joan Rivers lend their talents to the film. Star Wars nuts will especially appreciate the references in the film, but one doesn’t need to have seen the original trilogy 17 times to get some laughs.

62 – Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery

Though Wayne’s World and its sequel were immensely popular movies, Mike Myers didn’t really become a household name until he starred in this film. Playing a British superspy that is awakened from cryogenic freezing to face nemesis Dr. Evil, Myers’ Austin Powers has become a true icon in comedy films. With dozens of quotable lines the movie is still referenced frequently in pop culture today.

61 – Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story

Okay, so I may have given in to some personal bias with this selection. Though this film is far from critically acclaimed, I really found it quite funny. Sports comedies are always good for a laugh, but usually center around major sports like baseball or baseball. Who’d have thought we’d ever see a major motion picture with dodgeball as its central theme. If you listened to the critics and ignored this one, give it a chance. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

60 – Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Michael Caine has made a career of starring in compelling dramas. However, arguably his best performance to date came in this con-man comedy, where he stars alongside Steve Martin. The two attempt to work together at first, but the plot gets interesting when they face off in a head to head match-up to see which one is the better con artist.

59 – Van Wilder

The career of Ryan Reynolds has certainly been on the upswing lately, but I still enjoy his early work, when it was all but the laughs for him. My favorite Reynolds movie to date is undoubtedly the college campus crack-up, Van Wilder. Very much in the spirit of Animal House, Van Wilder certainly never takes itself too seriously. I’ve rarely laughed as hard, or been as grossed out in a theater as I was when I saw this movie.

58 – The Blues Brothers

Not just a classic comedy movie, but a true film classic as well. The late, great John Belushi and fellow SNL alum Dan Akroyd take their act to the big screen as brothers Jake and Elwood in this musical comedy. Claiming to be on a “Mission from God” the pair work to save the Catholic home where they were raised, meeting several music legends including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, James Brown and Cab Calloway along the way.

57 – Slap Shot

My Canadian roots are showing again. Yes, Slap Shot is a hockey movie, but even those who are not diehard fans of the sport can enjoy this movie. Paul Newman stars in the lead role as coach Reggie Dunlop, but it is the Hanson brothers who really steal the film. This is a movie that just doesn’t seem to age, and always receives a rousing cheer when thrown on at a party.

56 – Christmas Vacation

Don’t let the Christmas moniker fool you; this movie is great any time of year. Yes, it has particular relevance during the holidays, but the misadventures of Clark Griswold are amusing year round. This time the Griswolds aren’t hitting the road, choosing to spend this vacation at home with very amusing results.

55 – Home Alone

This is another film that technically falls in with Christmas movies, but again can be enjoyed regardless of the season. Macaulay Culkin gained international fame as the world’s cutest kid for his role in this caper about a child who is mistakenly left at home when his parents travel to France for Christmas and must defend his home from a pair of would-be burglars.

54 – The 40 Year Old Virgin

Though Steve Carell is now one of the most recognizable comedians in the biz now, back in 2005 he was a surprising choice to land the lead role in this Judd Apatow film. As it turns out the choice was a very good one. Carell is brilliant as a social misfit who is completely clueless when it comes to women. Ultimately he finds love, but not before several hilarious stumbles along the way.

53 – Stripes

You wouldn’t think a movie about the military could be funny, but throw Bill Murray in the mix and you’ve got a recipe for instant humor. Murray is once again stellar in this film about a pair of buddies who decide that the cure for their work blues is to join the army.

52 – Zombieland

As great as Shaun of the Dead was in my mind this film has supplanted it as the best “Zom Com” out there. Woody Harrelson is absolutely awesome as redneck zombie killer, Tallahassee, whose only wish in the post-apocalyptic zombie-overrun world is to enjoy one more Twinkie. Jesse Eisenberg is great in the lead role as an anal retentive shut-in who uses a set of hard and fast rules to adapt to his terrifying new situation.

51 – The Thin Man

Though this list has so far had a decidedly contemporary flavor I must tip my cap to some of the classic comedies of years gone by. It is so hard to rate these movies fairly because they were made in an era long before I was alive and thus often their humor – relevant for its time – is lost on me. The Thin Man is one film that transcends the ages and this mystery/comedy will appeal to almost every viewer.

50 – Weekend at Bernie’s

On my original list the omission of this film probably drew the biggest howls of outrage from readers. So, I went back and watched it again (hadn’t seen it in years) to reevaluate, and I’ve got to say I agree. The film has aged quite well, and Bernie Lomax is undoubtedly the funniest dead guy to ever “star” in a feature film.

49 – Office Space

Anyone who’s ever worked in an office will appreciate this one. There weren’t any A-list actors in this comedy (though Jennifer Aniston might qualify now), but every one of the major characters is hilarious. The film’s dialogue, particularly that of Gary Cole’s Bill Lumbergh, is endlessly quotable, and has helped launch the movie into cult status in the years since its release.

48 – Shrek

Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy lend their tremendous comedic talents to this twisted take of the standard fairytale story. This is a near perfect movie for families – enjoyable for kids, but with enough “adult” jokes to keep the older viewers in the crowd entertained as well.

47 – The Pink Panther

While not Peter Sellers’ funniest role, it is undeniably his most famous. In the movie Sellers plays police officer, Inspector Clouseau, who bumbles and stumbles as he tries to foil the attempts of a jewel thief after the famous Pink Panther diamond.

46 – Ghostbusters

One of the best movies of the 80s, this comedy/paranormal sci-fi film was one of the highest grossing films of that decade. Bill Murray headlines an all-star cast that also includes Dan Akroyd and Sigourney Weaver. This is one of those rare films that is still as funny today as it was when viewed in the 80s.

45 – Wedding Crashers

Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson are perfectly cast as two bachelor buddies who entertain themselves on weekends by showing up uninvited to weddings, steal the spotlight, and hook up with eligible women amenable to a one night stand. The scheme hits a bump when Wilson’s character falls in love and is forced to reevaluate his life.

44 – Meet the Parents

Ben Stiller is always amusing, but it is Robert DeNiro’s surprisingly penchant for comedy that really makes this film shine. DeNiro plays Jack Byrnes, the extremely protective father of the women Stiller’s character, Gaylord Focker, hopes to marry. Armed with connections and equipment from his days as a spy he makes Focker’s life a living hell. Focker’s attempts to get into his good books continually backfire – the volleyball scene is an all-time classic – and he is ready to throw in the towel before Jack finally relents.

43 – The Princess Bride

Perhaps this movie isn’t a “pure” comedy like many others on this list, but this fairytale parody is every bit as funny. Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Billy Crystal and even Andre the Giant deliver consistent laughs through this swashbuckling epic. This is one of those movies you can watch over and over again and never tire of it.

42 – Napoleon Dynamite

One of the stranger films on the list, this is a film that won’t be to everyone’s taste. Some folks simply won’t get it, and those who enjoy this type of humor will find it hilarious. Jon Heder’s career has fizzled since, but he’ll always have this instant classic under his belt. Don’t forget to vote for Pedro.

41 – The Graduate

Though he has been known throughout his career for his strong dramatic work, Dustin Hoffman has proven over and over again that he has a talent for comedy as well. His comedic career got off to a flying start way back in 1967 when he had the great fortune of earning the role as Benjamin Braddock, a young college grad who is seduced by the wife of his father’s business partner. The role landed Hoffman an Oscar nomination, and quickly jump-started what has been one of the most successful careers of our era.

40 – American Pie

Raunchy, high school, coming of age comedies are a dime a dozen, but this film really stood out for me. Rarely have I ever laughed as hard in a theater as I did watching this film. The casting is spot on, particularly Seann William Scott as the now iconic Steve Stifler. The movie has gone on to spawn several sequels, but only the second chapter even remotely compares to this original classic.

39 – When Harry Met Sally

I am admittedly not a huge fan of the romantic comedy, but there are a few out there that give me a good chuckle. This Billy Crystal/Meg Ryan picture has some classic moments, and never gets so gooey that it makes you want to throw up in your mouth. It is a little dated now, but remains a good choice for guys wanting to score a few brownie points on date night.

38 – Monty Python’s Life of Brian

I’m a huge Monty Python fan, and though Holy Grail is my favorite film from this British comedy troupe, Life of Brian isn’t far behind. The gang pulls no punches in this religious parody, and those with thin skin may be offended. If, on the other hand, you have no problem with boundary-pushing, politically-incorrect humor then this film about a case of mistaken identity should be right up your alley.

37 – Clerks

Kevin Smith is undoubtedly one of the best comedic minds of his generation. Smith movies like Mallrats, Chasing Amy and Dogma are all cult classics, and are among the most quotable movies of the past 20 years. However, it is his low-budget, black and white film, Clerks that Smith is best known for. His first feature film, Smith’s Clerks was so great because of the fantastic dialogue and the interplay between characters. If you’ve somehow never seen this movie, or even haven’t seen it lately, definitely dust it off for another viewing. Classic stuff that never seems to get old.

36 – Young Frankenstein

Speaking of classic stuff, this 1974 Mel Brooks-directed horror comedy certainly qualifies. The legend of Frankenstein has been told countless times and in many different ways, but never with this many laughs. Gene Wilder is at his zany best as the grandson of the original Dr. Frankenstein, and Peter Boyle as the Monster and Marty Feldman as Igor are both brilliant in support.

35 – Old School

There is plenty of fodder for laughter with a college frat house comedy, but this 2003 cult classic isn’t your standard example of the genre. This time the protagonists aren’t fresh out of high school. Instead, Luke Wilson, Vince Vaughn and Will Ferrell play a trio of middle-aged guys trying to relive their glory days by starting up a college fraternity. The result? Non-stop laughs. Ferrell is particularly memorable as the iconic Frank “the Tank”.

34 – Vacation

One of the biggest stars in comedy throughout the 80s, Chevy Chase plays the goofy, but lovable patriarch of the Griswold family in this film about a man determined to get his family to Wally World.

33 – The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad

Like parodies in the style of Airplane!? You’ll love this film. Late great Canadian comedy legend Leslie Nielsen stars in the lead role as Lieutenant Frank Drebin, a bumbling cop who must foil a nefarious plot to assassinate the queen.

32 – Father of the Bride (Original)

Though the 1991 remake starring Steve Martin was pretty good, it paled in comparison to the original 1950 classic with screen legends Spencer Tracy and Elizabeth Taylor teaming up to deliver the laughs. More than 60 years old now this film is one that stands the test of time. If you were lukewarm on the remake, definitely check out this version.

31 – Ace Ventura: Pet Detective

Jim Carrey absolutely owned the 90s when it came to comedy movies. He is at his over-the-top best as a private investigator specializing in solving animal mysteries. An eclectic cast that includes Courtney Cox, Dan Marino and Tone Loc co-stars as Ace tries to solve the disappearance of a football team’s dolphin mascot.

30 – Coming to America

Few omissions on my original top 50 list were as noted by critics as this film, and to be honest, I simply forgot it. It was a favorite of mine and my friends as teenagers back in the late 1980s. Eddie Murphy is great as always, and former late night talk show host Arsenio Hall does surprisingly well in a co-starring role in this film about an African prince who travels to Queens, New York to find a bride that will challenge him.

29 – M*A*S*H

The Korean War may not seem like a natural backdrop for comedy, but this film starring Donald Sutherland and Elliott Gould dispelled that notion. The film was so popular that it spawned a television series, which also went on to become one of the most acclaimed sitcoms of all time.

28 – The Odd Couple

Two of comedy’s biggest all-time heavyweights – Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau – team up once again in this film about a pair of extremely unlikely roommates. As always they have perfect on-screen chemistry and the laughs keep coming non-stop.

27 – Arthur

Though Arthur 2: On the Rocks is widely considered one of the worst sequels of all time, it is only because the bar was set so high by the original. Dudley Moore is brilliant in the lead role as a drunken slacker who will only inherit the family fortune if he marries a bride of his family’s choosing. Things get complicated when Arthur falls in love with another woman after proposing.

26 – A Fish Called Wanda

Monty Python alumni John Cleese and Michael Palin team up with American actors Kevin Kline and Jamie Lee Curtis in this goofy caper about a quartet of robbers who conspire to double-cross one another. The cast is spectacular and Kline is particularly good, and even earned an Oscar for his supporting role in the film.

25 – Kingpin

This movie won’t be for everyone. That is typical of any film by the Farrelly brothers. Yes, much like There’s Something About Mary and Dumb and Dumber the raunch factor is definitely present in this unique take on the sport of bowling. However, if you aren’t bothered by some of the nastier bits then you will certainly get a howl out of this movie. Woody Harrelson, Bill Murray and Randy Quaid are all stellar in co-starring roles.

24 – City Lights

Old-timers might be aghast at seeing this Charlie Chaplin classic right next to a bowling spoof, but this list of the funniest movies of all time was created in an attempt to appeal to all demographics so there you go. Chaplin stars as his iconic character, The Little Tramp, who falls in love with a blind flower girls. The Tramp manages to secure the money for surgery to restore the girl’s sight, and though this is a comedy, even the most hard-bitten viewer will have a hard time keeping tears at bay during the film’s emotional final scene.

23 – Swingers

A hallmark of a great comedy movie is how quotable it is, and few films before or since have worked their way into pop culture lingo like this 1996 film. Writer Jon Favreau also stars, and Vince Vaughn co-stars in the role that really launched his career. Classic scenes abound as Trent (Vaughn) attempts to show Mike (Favreau) the ropes of the night life scene.

22 – Dumb and Dumber

Jim Carrey makes another appearance on the list of best comedy movies, and this time he has Jeff Daniels riding shotgun. The pair star as a duo of idiots whose stupidity is so extreme as to defy belief. Despite their mental deficiencies, Lloyd and Harry manage to foil a pair of criminals and save the girl. Hockey fans will really appreciate the cameo by Cam Neely in the film.

21 – Duck Soup

No list of funny movies would be complete without an appearance by the incomparable Marx brothers. Groucho and crew are as hilarious as ever in this goofy political comedy about a dictator who starts a war with a neighboring country over the love of one Mrs. Gloria Teasdale.

20 – My Cousin Vinny

This is another film that I overlooked in my original list (and got lambasted for). Joe Pesci proves that he is every bit as good in a comedic role as he is as a psychopathic gangster. This time he is expertly cast as Vinny Gambini, an unorthodox lawyer who comes to the rescue when his cousins are arrested for murder in Alabama. As great as Pesci is, he is overshadowed by the wonderful performance by Marissa Tomei, who won an Oscar for her supporting role in the film.

19 – Harold and Maude

A dark comedy if ever there was one, Harold and Maude pairs a 79 year old anarchist with a teenage rich kid with a death obsession. An unlikely friendship blooms between the pair and Harold finally finds the answers he’s been looking for.

18 – Raising Arizona

It is truly amazing just how varied films by co-directors the Coen brothers are. Someone watching the powerful 2007 drama, No Country for Old Men would be amazed to learn that the same tandem that directed that picture was responsible for this quirky 1987 comedy. Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter are both terrific as the McDunnoughs, a couple (one an ex-con, the other an ex-cop) who, unable to have children of their own, decide to steal a child – one of a set of quintuplets – from another family.

17 – Animal House

As great as Old School is, there is only one choice for the definitive college campus comedy. The legendary John Belushi stars as Bluto, and Mark Metcalf turns in a truly iconic performance as Doug Neidermeyer. There are too many classic scenes to mention. Toga, toga, toga!

16 – Groundhog Day

Bill Murray is money when it comes to delivering laughs, and this 1993 film co-starring Andie MacDowell is no exception. Murray plays a weatherman reporting on the annual Groundhog Day festival in a small U.S. town who is force to relive the same day over and over and over again. While it might seem like this premise would quickly become tiresome to viewers Murray’s stellar comedic delivery and some great writing keep the repetition fresh.

15 – Some Like it Hot

Screen legends Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis team up with sex symbol Marilyn Monroe is this hilarious tale about a pair of musicians who accidentally bear witness to a mob hit. To save their skins they are forced to dress and drag, hiding in plain sight as members of an all female band.

14 – Planes, Trains and Automobiles

John Candy’s had a lot of great starring roles in films like The Great Outdoors, Uncle Buck and Spaceballs. However, in my opinion, his best work came as the obnoxious, but well-meaning shower curtain ring salesman Del Griffith in Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Over the course of the film he drives Steve Martin’s character, Neal Page absolutely nuts as the two travel together by numerous means, trying to get home for Thanksgiving.

13 – Fast Times at Ridgemont High

It is hard to reconcile that the same actor who starred in such dramatic roles in Milk and Mystic River played the goofy stoner Jeff Spicoli in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Spicoli’s contentious relationship with disciplinary teacher Mr. Hand is one of the best character interactions in film comedy history. The film doesn’t just follow the exploits of Spicoli. Judge Reinhold, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Robert Romanus and Brian Backer also deliver plenty of comic relief in this classic high school movie.

12 – Superbad

Speaking of classic high school movies, this is one of the funniest to come along in years. Michael Cera and Jonas Hill star as a pair of high school losers looking to earn brownie points by scoring some booze for the girls they like. As great as Cera and Hill are it is the supporting cast that really steals the show. From Christopher Mintz-Plasse’s now legendary McLovin’ to Seth Rogen and Bill Hader’s law-smashing cop duo everyone in the film is funny.

11 – The Party

Though known best for his work as Inspector Clouseau in The Pink Panther, Peter Sellers has starred in numerous other comedy films and is widely recognized as one of the greatest comedic actors of all time. The Party, in my opinion, is his most underrated film, and he is gutbustingly hilarious as Hrundi V. Bakshi, a destructive film extra who gets mistakenly invited to a swanky Hollywood party. His bumbling leads him to all sorts of misadventures. This is one of those rare films that everyone in the family will enjoy.

10 – The Big Lebowski

Though not a traditional comedy movie, The Big Lebowski certainly does not lack for laughs, and while some might be surprised at its #10 ranking on the list of the funniest movies of all time, those people probably haven’t watched the film enough times to appreciate just how amusing this film is. It is the characters and the dialogue, more than the bizarre plot, that really drives this Coen brothers’ masterpiece. Jeff Bridges as the Dude, John Goodman as Walter, Steve Buscemi as Donny, and John Turturro as the unforgettable Jesus are all stellar, and the dialogue is spot on throughout each scene. If you saw this movie once and dismissed it, I implore you to go back and watch it again. It is funnier than those who’ve seen it just a single time can truly appreciate.

9 – This is Spinal Tap

I’ll admit, I’m a big fan of mockumentary. Movies like Fubar, Best in Show and the like crack me up. No other mockumentary has been as well done before or since than This is Spinal Tap. Rob Reiner directs and stars as documentarian Marty DiBergi, who takes on the difficult task of chronicling the misadventures of the world’s loudest band.

8 – The Producers

Mel Brooks might be the most legendary comedy director in film history, and thus it is little surprise to see his work liberally peppered throughout this list. One of his best works is 1968′s The Producers. Brooks’ regular Gene Wilder stars alongside Zero Mostel and the two conmen come up with a clever idea to raise way more money than they need to finance the production of a Broadway show, ensure said show is a complete flop, and pocket the money, knowing the investors will not be expecting any sort of return. With a name like Springtime for Hitler they are certainly off to a good start, but will their plan succeed?

7 – Caddyshack

Though the sports comedy genre is a popular one I wasn’t able to justify the inclusion of many sports movies on this list. However, this is one sports film that absolutely cannot be ignored. Caddyshack was an instant classic when it was released back in 1980 and it never seems to diminish in popularity. Fans of golf will certainly get the most out of it, but even if you aren’t a fan of the sport the antics of Bill Murray, Rodney Dangerfield, Ted Knight et al will definitely have you roaring with laughter.

6 – There’s Something About Mary

The Farrelly brothers get another entry on the list, this time with 1998′s There’s Something About Mary. Starring Ben Stiller and Cameron Diaz, with support from Matt Dillon, Lee Evans, Chris Elliott, and even Brett Favre, the film, like most Farrelly brothers’ fare, definitely pushes the boundaries of good taste. The “hair gel” scene will have you wincing even while laughing, and that is but one of several such gross-out scenes. This is another film that doesn’t seem to age, and is every bit as funny as it was at the time of its release a dozen years ago.

5 – Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

Peter Sellers pulls triple duty in this quirky comedy set during the height of the Cold War. The legendary Stanley Kubrick once again shows his tremendous ability to deliver a high quality film regardless of the genre. This is a film that might hold little appeal to younger viewers, but if you are a more “mature” viewer or just have more refined taste in comedy, then this is a movie that is a must-watch.

4 – Airplane!

Leslie Nielsen makes another entry on the list, this time in the classic airline disaster parody co-directed by Jim Abrahams and David Zucker. Nielsen is joined by a stellar comedic cast that includes Lloyd Bridges, Robert Hays, Robert Stack, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The film was ground-breaking in the parody genre and later films like The Naked Gun and Hot Shots! pay homage to this hilarious film.

3 – Blazing Saddles

Mel Brooks hits our number three spot with his cowboy spoof Blazing Saddles. The humor is often crude and downright offensive, particularly when viewed through the eyes of today’s much more politically correct viewer. However, once the shock wears off this tale ludicrous take on the old West will definitely have you in stitches. Yes, campfire fart humor might be lowbrow, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t funny.

2 – The Hangover

The funniest movie to come out in years The Hangover had me in tears of laughter at the theater. Ed Helms, Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifianakis are all hilarious as two buddies and one soon-to-be brother-in-law who take their friend to Vegas for one last night of bachelor fun before he gets married. However, when they wake up the next morning with no memory of what happened the night before and discover that the groom-to-be is missing they attempt to retrace their forgotten adventures from the previous night, making a series of hilarious discoveries along the way.

1 – Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Yes, The Hangover came close to challenging for the title of the best comedy movie of all time, but ultimately this Monty Python classic held on to its reign. The Python crew is at their absolute best throughout this tale of King Arthur and his quest for the legendary grail, and each scene in the film seems to top the one previous. I thought perhaps The Hangover II would have a shot of dethroning the champ but it was not to be. The Holy Grail reigns supreme!

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