17+ Best 1980s Comedy Movies (List)

The 1980s was a decade filled with iconic comedy movies that left a lasting impact on the genre.

From slapstick humor to witty dialogue, the 80s produced some of the most memorable and beloved comedies of all time.

Best 1980s Comedy Movies

The 1980s was a vibrant decade for comedy films, with a surge of new directors and actors bringing fresh, funny perspectives to the big screen.

Here are some of the best comedy movies from the 1980s:

“Airplane!” (1980)

Directors: Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, Jerry Zucker

A parody of the disaster film genre, particularly the 1957 Paramount film “Zero Hour!”.

“Caddyshack” (1980)

Director: Harold Ramis

A sports comedy about the staff and guests of a golf club, featuring memorable performances by Bill Murray and Rodney Dangerfield.

“The Blues Brothers” (1980)

Director: John Landis

A musical comedy about a band’s mission to save the Catholic orphanage where they were raised.

“Tootsie” (1982)

Director: Sydney Pollack

A romantic comedy-drama about an unemployed actor who disguises himself as a woman to land a role in a soap opera.

“Trading Places” (1983)

Director: John Landis

A comedy about a snobbish investor and a wily street con artist who find their positions reversed as part of a bet by two callous millionaires.

“Ghostbusters” (1984)

Director: Ivan Reitman

A supernatural comedy about a team of scientists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City.

“This Is Spinal Tap” (1984)

Director: Rob Reiner

A mockumentary about a fictional band, considered one of the greatest comedies of all time.

“Back to the Future” (1985)

Director: Robert Zemeckis

A science fiction comedy about a teenager who travels back in time to the 1950s and must ensure his parents meet to secure his own existence.

“The Breakfast Club” (1985)

Director: John Hughes

A teen comedy-drama about a group of high school students serving detention, exploring themes of identity and adolescence.

“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986)

Director: John Hughes

A teen comedy about a high schooler who skips school for a day of adventure.

“Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987)

Director: John Hughes

A road comedy about a man trying to get home for Thanksgiving with a lovable but annoying companion.

“A Fish Called Wanda” (1988)

Director: Charles Crichton

A heist comedy about a group of diamond thieves who try to double-cross each other.

“Coming to America” (1988)

Director: John Landis

A romantic comedy about an African prince who goes to America to find a wife.

“Beetlejuice” (1988)

Director: Tim Burton

A fantasy comedy about a deceased couple who try to haunt the new inhabitants of their former home.

“When Harry Met Sally…” (1989)

Director: Rob Reiner

A romantic comedy exploring the question of whether men and women can just be friends.

“Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” (1989)

Director: Stephen Herek

A science fiction comedy about two teenagers who travel through time to prepare for a history presentation.

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989)

Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik

A holiday comedy about a man’s attempt to have a perfect family Christmas.

Each of these films from the 1980s is celebrated for its humor, creativity, and enduring appeal, making them some of the best comedies of the decade.

Below we look deeper at a selection of the best 1980s comedy movies, highlighting their unique qualities and why they continue to entertain audiences today.

Table of Contents

1. Airplane! (1980)

Airplane! is a classic comedy film that parodies disaster movies.

Directed by Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, this film is known for its rapid-fire jokes and absurd humor.

It stars Leslie Nielsen, Robert Hays, and Julie Hagerty, who deliver hilarious performances that have become iconic in the comedy genre.

The film’s success can be attributed to its clever writing and innovative use of visual gags.

Airplane! introduced a new style of comedy that relied heavily on puns, wordplay, and slapstick humor.

It also featured a talented ensemble cast, including veteran actors such as Peter Graves and Lloyd Bridges, who embraced the film’s comedic style with gusto.

Airplane! was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $83 million at the box office.

It received positive reviews for its irreverent humor and remains a cult favorite among comedy enthusiasts.

The film’s influence can still be seen in modern comedies, with many filmmakers drawing inspiration from its unique blend of satire and silliness.

2. Ghostbusters (1984)

Ghostbusters is a supernatural comedy film directed by Ivan Reitman.

Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson, this movie follows a group of eccentric scientists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City.

With its memorable characters and witty dialogue, Ghostbusters became an instant hit and remains a beloved classic.

The film’s success can be attributed to its perfect blend of comedy, action, and supernatural elements.

Ghostbusters introduced a unique concept that combined humor with the paranormal, creating a fresh and entertaining experience for audiences.

The chemistry between the cast members, particularly Bill Murray’s deadpan delivery, added to the film’s comedic charm.

Ghostbusters was a box office success, grossing over $295 million worldwide.

It received critical acclaim for its originality and humor, earning two Academy Award nominations.

The film’s impact extended beyond the box office, spawning a franchise that includes sequels, an animated series, and a reboot.

Ghostbusters remains a cultural phenomenon and a testament to the enduring appeal of 1980s comedy movies.

3. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a teen comedy film directed by John Hughes.

Starring Matthew Broderick as the charismatic Ferris Bueller, the movie follows a high school student who decides to skip school and spend a day exploring Chicago with his friends.

With its relatable characters and humorous situations, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has become a quintessential 80s comedy.

The film’s success can be attributed to its universal themes of rebellion and the desire for freedom.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off resonated with audiences of all ages, capturing the spirit of youth and the longing for adventure.

Matthew Broderick’s charismatic performance as Ferris Bueller added to the film’s appeal, making him an iconic character in the comedy genre.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off was a commercial success, grossing over $70 million at the box office.

It received positive reviews for its humor and heart, with critics praising John Hughes’ direction and the performances of the cast.

The film has since become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless imitations and cementing its place as one of the best 1980s comedy movies.

4. The Princess Bride (1987)

The Princess Bride is a romantic comedy fantasy film directed by Rob Reiner.

Based on William Goldman’s novel of the same name, the movie tells the story of a young woman named Buttercup and her true love, Westley, as they navigate a world filled with pirates, giants, and villains.

With its blend of adventure, romance, and humor, The Princess Bride has captivated audiences for decades.

The film’s success can be attributed to its clever script and memorable characters.

The Princess Bride is filled with quotable lines and memorable moments that have become ingrained in popular culture.

The chemistry between the cast members, including Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, and Mandy Patinkin, brought the story to life and added to its comedic charm.

The Princess Bride was not a huge box office success upon its initial release but gained a cult following through home video and television screenings.

It received critical acclaim for its wit and charm, with many praising its ability to appeal to both children and adults.

The film’s enduring popularity has led to it being considered one of the greatest comedy movies of all time.

5. Back to the Future (1985)

Back to the Future is a science fiction comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis.

Starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly, the movie follows a teenager who travels back in time with the help of a DeLorean time machine invented by his eccentric friend, Doc Brown.

With its blend of humor, adventure, and time travel, Back to the Future became a cultural phenomenon.

The film’s success can be attributed to its innovative storytelling and memorable characters.

Back to the Future introduced audiences to the concept of time travel in a fun and accessible way, combining science fiction with comedy.

Michael J. Fox’s charismatic performance as Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd’s eccentric portrayal of Doc Brown added to the film’s appeal.

Back to the Future was a box office success, grossing over $381 million worldwide.

It received critical acclaim for its entertaining story, humor, and visual effects, earning four Academy Award nominations.

The film spawned two successful sequels and remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain audiences of all ages.

FAQs – Best 1980s Comedy Movies

1. What are some other notable 1980s comedy movies?

Some other notable 1980s comedy movies include Caddyshack (1980), The Blues Brothers (1980), Trading Places (1983), National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983), and Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987).

2. Are there any 1980s comedy movies that have stood the test of time?

Yes, many 1980s comedy movies have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved classics.

Some examples include Ghostbusters, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and The Princess Bride.

3. What makes 1980s comedy movies unique?

1980s comedy movies are unique because they often combined humor with other genres, such as action, romance, or science fiction.

They also introduced new comedic styles and memorable characters that have become cultural touchstones.

4. Why do people still enjoy watching 1980s comedy movies?

People still enjoy watching 1980s comedy movies because they offer a nostalgic escape and provide timeless humor.

These movies often tackle universal themes and feature relatable characters, making them enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

5. Are there any 1980s comedy movies that have been remade or rebooted?

Yes, some 1980s comedy movies have been remade or rebooted.

For example, Ghostbusters was rebooted in 2016 with an all-female cast, and a sequel to the original film is set to be released in 2021.

6. Did any 1980s comedy movies win awards?

Yes, some 1980s comedy movies won awards.

For example, Ghostbusters received two Academy Award nominations, and Back to the Future won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

7. Are there any 1980s comedy movies that are considered cult classics?

Yes, several 1980s comedy movies are considered cult classics. Examples include Airplane!, The Princess Bride, and This Is Spinal Tap (1984).

8. Did any 1980s comedy movies launch the careers of notable actors?

Yes, some 1980s comedy movies launched the careers of notable actors.

For example, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off helped establish Matthew Broderick as a leading actor, and Ghostbusters further solidified Bill Murray’s status as a comedic icon.

9. Are there any 1980s comedy movies that have been referenced or parodied in other films?

Yes, many 1980s comedy movies have been referenced or parodied in other films.

For example, Airplane! has been parodied in numerous movies and TV shows, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has been referenced in popular culture multiple times.

10. What is the legacy of 1980s comedy movies?

The legacy of 1980s comedy movies is their enduring popularity and influence on the comedy genre.

These movies introduced new comedic styles, memorable characters, and quotable lines that continue to be celebrated and referenced in popular culture today.

Summary – Best 1980s Comedy Movies

The 1980s produced some of the most iconic and beloved comedy movies of all time.

Films like Airplane!, Ghostbusters, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Princess Bride, and Back to the Future captured the spirit of the decade and continue to entertain audiences today.

These movies showcased a wide range of comedic styles, from slapstick humor to witty dialogue, and introduced memorable characters that have become cultural touchstones.

What sets these movies apart is their ability to transcend time and remain relevant decades after their release.

Their humor and themes resonate with audiences of all ages, making them timeless classics.

Whether it’s the rapid-fire jokes of Airplane!, the supernatural comedy of Ghostbusters, or the adventure-filled romance of The Princess Bride, these films have left an indelible mark on the comedy genre.

As we look back on the best 1980s comedy movies, it’s clear that they continue to bring joy and laughter to audiences around the world.

Their enduring popularity is a testament to the talent of the filmmakers, writers, and actors who brought these stories to life.

So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the hilarity and charm of these timeless classics.

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