Ahhh, the ‘90s, how sweet this name rolls around on the tongue, evoking many happy memories for many people who've lived their childhoods, teenage years, or spent their young adult lives throughout the decade. And though this post isn't necessarily meant as praise for the ‘90s, it will definitely take you on a merry walk down memory lane once you discover the movies we've listed here. After all, who doesn't love a good ‘90s comedy movie, especially the one that you originally watched on a videotape in horrible quality? So, if you're actively nodding right now, let us present you a thorough compendium of cool and funny ‘90s movies!
But before you go along and scroll down to our top ‘90s comedies, let's talk about why exactly the flicks from this decade were so good and made such an impact on the evolvement of the industry. For one, this era saw a significant improvement in the technologies used for watching movies at home. Though DVDs came later in the decade, the VHS tapes grew better and better in quality, renting them was easy (Blockbuster, anyone?), and some Hollywood movies went straight to tapes or disks for your watch-at-home pleasure. In addition, a more accessible form of entertainment meant growing income for those who made it, thus perpetuating faster movie-making.
The ‘90s movies also saw vastly improved special effects, the rise of Hollywood superstar actors, indie filmmakers gaining the audience's respect, and loads of fresh ideas from seasoned directors. Mix all that with the innocence and simplicity of the ‘90s, and there you have it - a string of blockbusters, classic, and iconic movies, that have outlived the era.
But let's go back to the main topic here - comedy movies. Just a few scrolls down below, and you'll have the pleasure to be reminded of such classic comedies as The Groundhog Day, Dumb and Dumber, Mrs. Doubtfire, and many, many more. We're sure that this list will make you run to your attic, scramble for the dusty VHS player and shuffle around the videotape collection. Or finding the best movie streaming service with a comprehensive ‘90s movies library, that is. Tell us which flicks are the funniest or the most nostalgic to you, don't forget to vote for the best movies, and share this article with your friends!
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Home Alone
If there ever was a Christmas staple movie, Home Alone is it. Call it distasteful for adult bashing or stretched-thin; Home Alone is a truly iconic film of the ‘90s. To us die-hard fans, the gags are hilarious, the premise is unexpected (how is it possible to forget your own child?), and Macaulay Culkin is adorable beyond words.
Mrs. Doubtfire
There are very few actors as widely beloved as the late Robin Williams. Every movie he starred in warmed audiences' hearts and made them laugh, creating a wholesome movie-watching experience. Such is the case with Mrs. Doubtfire too, a goofy, lighthearted movie that, in the end, touches you profoundly. And, you might not know this, but a sequel to Mrs. Doubtfire was under work. Sadly, the idea was dropped right after the untimely death of everyone's favorite Williams.
This would have to be my favourite movie with Robin Willams. RIP
My Cousin Vinny
Name at least one movie starring Marisa Tomei that's not funny or iconic. Or both. Anyway, we always love ourselves a sharp courtroom comedy, and besides being genuinely amusing, My Cousin Vinny was also lauded for being quite accurate on court procedures. A movie you can snort at and learn something valuable? Sign us up!
A League Of Their Own
What's a sports comedy without broken bones, noses, and bruises during filming? Well, even though you couldn't tell that by watching the glorious all-girls baseball team (including a performance from Madonna!) on screen, but the making of A League Of Their Own did involve plenty of physical sacrifices from the cast. However, it isn't the thing that made this movie an iconic one. Instead, a thoroughly charming cast, non-soppy sentimentality, and lightheartedness are why this movie is still beloved even decades after its release.
Groundhog Day
Now, this is an iconic movie one might actually call time-defying (get it?). This movie is so impactful that even its name, Groundhog Day, became a widely-used phrase to reference a repetitive and monotonous situation. Groundhog Day's innovative use of the time loop made it popular with general audiences and was since repeated in several movies, TV shows, and video games. And though a direct sequel was quickly ruled out upon the original film's release, you can always relive Groundhog Day by watching a musical by the same name.
Men In Black
Men In Black, an adaptation of a comic book of the same name by Lowell Cunningham and Sandy Carruthers, was a bonafide blockbuster hit. Thanks to its original story, charismatic performances, and tasteful jokes, Men In Black secured itself three sequels, animated series adaptation, and spawned six video games.
Friday
As stated by the Friday director F. Gary Gray, working with Ice Cube in a comedy "scared the sh*t out of me." Yet we say it was funny as hell! Throw the "toughest man in America" into comedic situations on a buddy stoner film, and it is instantaneously hilarious. So if you're a fan of hood comedies, give this 1995 movie a look-see.
Liar Liar
A simple premise doesn't always mean a simplistic movie. And though the main idea of a lawyer that's forced to tell nothing but the truth might seem like an incomplex one, the movie Liar Liar comes out as nothing but. With another stellar Carrey performance, this comedy gained favorable acclaim from audiences and cemented Carrey's comedian career.
The Big Lebowski
Though a more 'serious' movie than others on our list, Big Lebowski by the Coen brothers has gained a cult-like following and even inspired a whole new philosophy called Dudeism. Peppered with hilarious and memorable performances from supporting actors (Turturro's Jesus is by far one of the greatest supporting characters ever), The Big Lebowski is a real adventure to watch. And if you haven't already, we strongly recommend it!
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
I won't even start counting the memes existing purely because of this hilarious 1994 movie. Yet, the most crucial point is proven once again - everything Jim Carrey stars in turns right into comedy gold. And who else, if not mister Carrey, would've made a bottlenose dolphin rescue such an uproarious affair.
The Sandlot
A coming-of-age sports comedy that's so nostalgic it'll make you cry-laugh? Yes, it's The Sandlot in its full glory. As with most movies on our list, this comedy film found itself out of favor with the critics, but who are they to judge a comedy, right? And if one Sandlot just doesn't cut it for you - there are two sequels to this 1993 gem.
There's Something About Mary
Starring Cameron Diaz, a legitimate It Girl of the era, There's Something About Mary was a wildly successful film. Listed in the American Film Institute's roster of 100 best comedies of all time, There's Something About Mary will always be funny due to its universal sense of humor, enjoyable performances, and lighthearted tone.
Happy Gilmore
The aniseed of the movie industry, Adam Sandler is one of those guys whose movies and performances you love or loathe. But, no matter which side you are supporting on the aniseed debate, Happy Gilmore was a huge commercial success, gaining nominations for such sought-after awards as the Golden Raspberry Awards and Stinkers Bad Movie Awards! Not many movies in our list can beat that, for sure.
Clueless
There are many cases when a book-based movie turns sour, but Clueless is a stellar example of how such a movie should look and feel, I daresay. Loosely based on Jane Austen's 1815 novel Emma, Clueless is considered to be one of the greatest teen movies ever made. The film's success propelled young Alicia Silverstone's career, had us all swooning for Paul Rudd, adopting the "As if!" and wishing for the dazzling outfits from Cher's and Dionne's closets.
Dumb And Dumber
Relentlessly stupid yet highly entertaining, Dumb and Dumber is truly an iconic comedy of the era. If not for the glorious partnership of everyone's beloved actors - Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels - we're sure this buddy comedy film wouldn't have been as successful in the box office as it was upon its release.
Love this movie, can't count how many times I've seen it. And will watch it many more.
Wayne's World
Born out of a Saturday Night Live sketch, Wayne's World was the highest-grossing of 11 movies spawned from SNL. With a feature film debut performance from Mike Myers and such supporting cast as Dana Carvey, Rob Lowe, and Lara Flynn Boyle, Wayne's World was acclaimed critically and enjoyed great success among audiences. Filled with memorable catchphrases and original jokes, Wayne's World cemented itself as one of the best comedy movies of the ‘90s.
Tommy Boy
Though met with very lukewarm reviews, Tommy Boy has gained itself a spot on the cult movies list. Definitely not because of its predictability or jokes you've probably heard too many times, but because of the superb and loveable performances of Saturday Night Live colleagues David Spade and Chris Farley. So, if you're looking for a movie that'll surely induce a real-life ROFL, try Tommy Boy.
Office Space
A commercial flop upon its release, Office Space later did so well with selling on home video and DVDs that it gained a cult-like following just a couple of years later. Several elements of the film are still reused as memes to this day - remember the one about working on Saturday? Curiously enough, a red Swingline stapler became a staple of the movie, and the manufacturers started offering such a non-existent-before stapler for purchase.
Toy Story
Though it might seem like an unlikely contender, we think Toy Story is absolutely worthy of being on our list of the best ‘90s comedies. Not only is it one of the most impactful animated movies, but it's also probably the only film with a cast member that went on a real space mission. Well, okay, not really a cast member, but a figurine of Buzz Lightyear taken on a Space Shuttle mission STS-124 in 2008 that was used for experiments in zero-g. Still quite an impressive achievement, I might say!
I think they should have just stuck with the first two movies.
Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery
There's nothing better than a light-hearted, psychedelic parody of something as serious as the James Bond franchise. And Austin Power's frontman Mike Myers delivered it! A goofy spy, Bondesque gags, flocks of beautiful ladies clad in skimpy ‘60s attire, and iconic one-liners - everything you could've wished for in a comedy is here!
again, this is mildly funny as a short bit, not a whole movie let alone a trilogy.
The Wedding Singer
Surprisingly romantic, sweet, and beguiling, The Wedding Singer is consistently named one of the best Adam Sandler comedies. And you know what, we might just agree - everything's better with a bit of romance and an awesome soundtrack in it. It's also one of the few movies on our list that got a Broadway remake, and though it wasn't a massive success, The Wedding Singer musical has become popular with community theaters and high schools.
I like the Adam Sandler movies that feature Drew Barrymore the most. I think they work well together.
American Pie
Five high school guys on a deflowering quest can only mean lots of embarrassment, hilarity, mishaps, and raunchy jokes. And if that's what you're looking for in a comedy, American Pie is a bullseye shot. This teenage drama-comedy-romp was so hugely successful that it spawned three direct sequels and five spin-off movies.
The Mask
"Sssomebody stop me!" before I run and get myself a Milo from a dog shelter and try to mimic all the legendary scenes from The Mask. Loosely based on the comics by the same name, The Mask stars comedy icon Jim Carrey with a debuting Cameron Diaz by his side. Call it either fantastic or bombastic; this movie made us hee-haw throughout its whole 101 minutes run time and left us wishing for more of The Mask's shenanigans.
The Waterboy
Ah, Adam Sandler and his never-ending portrayals of somewhat mentally challenged personas. So here's one more to add to this list - The Waterboy. And as with basically all the other Sandler movies from the era, this one was also nominated for Golden Raspberries and Stinkers Bad Movies. Still, to us, it encapsulates the naivete and simple way of living of the ‘90s better than anything.
What About Bob?
A dark comedy starring Bill Murray can only mean success in our book. What About Bob? follows a relationship (of sorts) between an irritating patient and his psychotherapist. With such a premise, jokes can only get dark and the situations amusing. Interestingly enough, it might have been Woody Allen in the role of Dr. Leo Marvin and in the director's chair. However, he refused as he always worked on projects generated by himself.
Billy Madison
Still not had enough of Adam Sandler? No probs, here's another movie of his, portraying a dimwitted adult as per usual! However, if you watch this movie keeping in mind that Sandler's persona is meant to be an irritating one, the laughs will definitely come, as some of the sequences in this movie are beyond hilarious.
Toy Story 2
A sequel to the 1995 Toy Story, it opened to wild box office success and just as its predecessor did, it gained a rare 100% rating on the website Rotten Tomatoes. But, if not for Galyn Susman, Toy Story 2 might've perished without us ever seeing it. See, in 1998, two years into making this animated film, one of the animators accidentally deleted all the material created up to date. But thanks to Galyn, who was working from home while taking care of her newborn baby, backup files were kept, and the production moved on.
Pretty Woman
There aren't many romantic comedies on our list, but it wouldn't be complete without Pretty Woman. Though it is filled with slick humor and charisma supplied by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, the critics weren't too enthralled about Pretty Woman's premise, and the reviews were quite average. Average or not, the movie resonated with audiences and saw the highest ticket sales for a romantic comedy ever.
Robin Hood: Men In Tights
Sister Act
The Addams Family
Bid Daddy
Another Golden Razzies and Stinkers award nominee by Adam Sandler on our list might not even come as a surprise anymore. What's surprising, though, is that it was the seventh highest-grossing movie of the year it was released and Sandler's biggest earner up until Hotel Transylvania 2. And though critics once again bashed Big Daddy, the film has an unlikely fan - director Paul Thomas Anderson (Boogie Night, There Will Be Blood) named it among his all-time favorite movies.
Cool Runnings
Death Becomes Her
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
A second installment in the Austin Powers movie series, The Spy Who Shagged Me, was an instant box office hit. Filled with theme-appropriate jokes and spy-inspired gags, this movie was even more successful than its predecessor. And there's always a spot on our list for a special agent with horrible teeth and a great sense of humor!
The Birdcage
Dogma
Romy And Michele's High School Reunion
Kindergarten Cop
Hocus Pocus
Galaxy Quest
The Truman Show
10 Things I Hate About You
Bean
The First Wives Club
Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit
Hot Shots!
So I Married An Axe Murderer
To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar
Addams Family Values
City Slickers
Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead
Omg this was amazing!!! I always thought it was so cool how Christina Applegate's character started working as a "business woman"
The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell Of Fear
Mars Attacks!
Matilda
Being John Malkovich
Rush Hour
🎶War! Whoo Yeah, what is it good for?🎶 Jackie Chan is very fun in this
Grumpier Old Men
Fierce Creatures
Clerks
Grumpy Old Men
Super cute and funny. Dead fish in the car, pranks, love story. It has everything! Lol
The Santa Clause
I thought it was funny, then I found out what an ahole this guy is, can't watch it now. Totally spoiled it.
Hot Shots! Part Deux
The Parent Trap
Curly Sue
Dazed And Confused
Home Alone 2: Lost In New York
Father Of The Bride
Mallrats
True Lies
The Little Rascals
Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult
Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas
Mermaids
Luv Wynonna Rider 90s movies! Cher was really cool in this too
Patch Adams
Now And Then
Bad Boys
Coneheads
Doc Hollywood
Dave
Don't Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood
Encino Man
Housesitter
Much Ado About Nothing
Drop Dead Fred
Last Action Hero
Kingpin
Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls
A Night At The Roxbury
Wayne's World 2
Son In Law
Never Been Kissed
Father Of The Bride Part II
Slums Of Beverly Hills
Election
Jingle All The Way
Sliding Doors
Loaded Weapon 1
Major Payne
White Men Can't Jump
Blast From The Past
Problem Child
Black Sheep
Benny & Joon
Dr. Dolittle
The Truth About Cats & Dogs
Toys
Cry-Baby
South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut
Half Baked
Vegas Vacation
The Cable Guy
Maverick
Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey
Space Jam
Heavy Weights
Only You
Detroit Rock City
Stuart Little
I liked this when it first came out, but it lost it's luster for me after that
The Out-Of-Towners
The Frighteners
And filmed in New Zealand (Peter Jackson, so not surprising lol. He did some great early black comedies too)
Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie
French Kiss
How Stella Got Her Groove Back
Grosse Pointe Blank
Analyze This
Multiplicity
Baseketball
Ed Wood
Mystery Men
House Party
Blue Streak
Serial Mom
Down Periscope
Waking Ned
Blankman
My Best Friend's Wedding
Mousehunt
Man On The Moon
Private Parts
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Greedy
Nine Months
Anywhere But Here
Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo
My Blue Heaven
Can't Hardly Wait
Varsity Blues
Nothing To Lose
Mystery, Alaska
Defending Your Life
Good Burger
Mighty Aphrodite
The Hudsucker Proxy
Career Opportunities
Only The Lonely
Soul Food
Baby's Day Out
Hero
Manhattan Murder Mystery
The Hard Way
Bye Bye Love
Barton Fink
My Fellow Americans
Mr. Destiny
Airborne
Go
All I Want For Christmas
Beavis And Butt-Head Do America
Get Shorty
Dutch
Tin Cup
Soapdish
Booty Call
That Thing You Do!
The Ref
Welcome To The Dollhouse
She sprains her finger LOL... Totally forgot about this movie!! Very odd, but kinda good
Boomerang
Bulworth
Drop Dead Gorgeous
Bébé's Kids
Swingers
Bowfinger
Money Talks
Guarding Tess
The Brady Bunch Movie
Necessary Roughness
Cb4
Def Jam's How To Be A Player
Beverly Hills Ninja
A Thin Line Between Love And Hate
Renaissance Man
Surf Ninjas
Bottle Rocket
Edtv
In & Out
Dead Man On Campus
Kicking And Screaming
The Paper
Postcards From The Edge
Dirty Work
Rushmore
Quick Change
Waiting For Guffman
Pcu
The Great White Hype
Honeymoon In Vegas
I think you need to better look up the definition of funny and not mistake it for "cringe"
Her next post will be: 26 Of My Favorite Letters Of The Alphabet.
Load More Replies...it says 90's movies lol Monty Python's Life of Brian was out in 1979 haha
Load More Replies...I'm willing to guess that after a while of voting, the bottom ones will be purged.
Load More Replies...Talk about Lazy Pandas. This is pretty much the exact list from Ranker. What a joke.
As suspected I was disappointed by this list. I like 11 of these films. Of the remaining ones, half I hate and the other half I have never seen!
My favorite part of ace Ventura definitely has to be the over the top Transphobia... it's definitely the best part. Who doesn't love their dose of transphobic ideas in their kids Movies.. I know I do. Yes this is sarcasm.
I guess I watched a lot of movies in the 90s....enjoyed remembering a lot of these, but yeah list was too long for me too
what is with the buy now amazon cart link on all these? is this new? don't recall seeing that here before
I think you need to better look up the definition of funny and not mistake it for "cringe"
Her next post will be: 26 Of My Favorite Letters Of The Alphabet.
Load More Replies...it says 90's movies lol Monty Python's Life of Brian was out in 1979 haha
Load More Replies...I'm willing to guess that after a while of voting, the bottom ones will be purged.
Load More Replies...Talk about Lazy Pandas. This is pretty much the exact list from Ranker. What a joke.
As suspected I was disappointed by this list. I like 11 of these films. Of the remaining ones, half I hate and the other half I have never seen!
My favorite part of ace Ventura definitely has to be the over the top Transphobia... it's definitely the best part. Who doesn't love their dose of transphobic ideas in their kids Movies.. I know I do. Yes this is sarcasm.
I guess I watched a lot of movies in the 90s....enjoyed remembering a lot of these, but yeah list was too long for me too
what is with the buy now amazon cart link on all these? is this new? don't recall seeing that here before