17+ Best 1990s Comedy Movies (List)

The 1990s was a decade filled with memorable comedy movies that continue to entertain audiences to this day.

From slapstick humor to witty dialogue, these films showcased the comedic talents of some of the industry’s most beloved actors and directors.

Best 1990s Comedy Movies

The 1990s was a decade filled with a diverse array of comedy films, from romantic comedies to dark satires.

Here are some of the best comedy movies from the 1990s:

“Home Alone” (1990)

Director: Chris Columbus

A family comedy about a young boy who defends his home from burglars after his family accidentally leaves him behind during Christmas vacation.

“Pretty Woman” (1990)

Director: Garry Marshall

A romantic comedy about a wealthy businessman who falls in love with a prostitute he hires to accompany him to social events.

“Wayne’s World” (1992)

Director: Penelope Spheeris

A comedy based on a “Saturday Night Live” sketch about two friends who host a public-access television show.

“Groundhog Day” (1993)

Director: Harold Ramis

A fantasy comedy about a weatherman who finds himself reliving the same day over and over again.

“Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993)

Director: Chris Columbus

A comedy-drama about a divorced actor who disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children.

“Dumb and Dumber” (1994)

Directors: Peter Farrelly, Bobby Farrelly

A slapstick comedy about two intellectually challenged friends on a cross-country trip to return a briefcase.

“Clerks” (1994)

Director: Kevin Smith

An independent comedy about a day in the life of two convenience store clerks.

“Toy Story” (1995)

Director: John Lasseter

An animated comedy about the secret life of toys when humans are not around.

“Fargo” (1996)

Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen

A dark comedy-crime film about a car salesman who hires two criminals to kidnap his wife.

“The Big Lebowski” (1998)

Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen

A crime comedy about an unemployed bowler who gets involved in a kidnapping case.

“There’s Something About Mary” (1998)

Directors: Peter Farrelly, Bobby Farrelly

A romantic comedy about a man who hires a private investigator to find his high school crush.

“Rushmore” (1998)

Director: Wes Anderson

A comedy-drama about a precocious teenager and his friendship with a wealthy industrialist.

“American Pie” (1999)

Director: Paul Weitz

A teen s-x comedy about a group of friends who make a pact to lose their virginity by prom night.

“Office Space” (1999)

Director: Mike Judge

A satirical comedy about a group of office workers who hate their jobs.

“Notting Hill” (1999)

Director: Roger Michell

A romantic comedy about a bookseller who falls in love with a famous actress.

“10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)

Director: Gil Junger

A teen romantic comedy-drama based on Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.”

“South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut” (1999)

Directors: Trey Parker, Matt Stone

An animated musical comedy based on the television series “South Park.”

Each of these films from the 1990s is celebrated for its humor, originality, and contribution to the comedy genre, making them some of the best comedies of the decade.

Below we look deeper at the best 1990s comedy movies, highlighting their unique qualities and enduring popularity.

Table of Contents

1. The Mask (1994)

Directed by Chuck Russell, “The Mask” is a comedy film that stars Jim Carrey in one of his most iconic roles.

Carrey plays Stanley Ipkiss, a timid bank clerk who discovers a magical mask that transforms him into a mischievous and confident character.

With its blend of physical comedy and Carrey’s trademark energy, “The Mask” became a box office success and solidified Carrey’s status as a comedic superstar.

2. Dumb and Dumber (1994)

“Dumb and Dumber,” directed by the Farrelly brothers, follows the hilarious misadventures of Lloyd Christmas (Jim Carrey) and Harry Dunne (Jeff Daniels) as they embark on a cross-country journey to return a briefcase to its owner.

The film’s slapstick humor and absurd situations made it a cult classic, and Carrey and Daniels’ comedic chemistry remains unmatched.

3. There’s Something About Mary (1998)

Directed by the Farrelly brothers, “There’s Something About Mary” is a romantic comedy that stars Cameron Diaz, Ben Stiller, and Matt Dillon.

The film revolves around Ted (Stiller), who hires a private investigator to find his high school crush, Mary (Diaz).

The movie’s blend of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments struck a chord with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success.

4. Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)

Directed by Jay Roach, “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” introduced the world to the groovy and hilarious spy, Austin Powers, played by Mike Myers.

The film parodies the spy genre, with Myers portraying both the titular character and his nemesis, Dr. Evil.

With its memorable catchphrases and over-the-top humor, “Austin Powers” became a cultural phenomenon and spawned two successful sequels.

5. Groundhog Day (1993)

“Groundhog Day,” directed by Harold Ramis, stars Bill Murray as Phil Connors, a weatherman who finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again.

As Connors tries to break free from the cycle, the film explores themes of self-improvement and personal growth.

Murray’s comedic timing and the film’s clever premise have made “Groundhog Day” a beloved comedy classic.

6. Clueless (1995)

Directed by Amy Heckerling, “Clueless” is a coming-of-age comedy that follows the life of Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone), a popular and fashionable high school student.

The film’s witty dialogue, memorable fashion, and satirical take on teenage life resonated with audiences, making it a cultural touchstone of the 1990s.

7. Office Space (1999)

“Office Space,” directed by Mike Judge, is a workplace comedy that satirizes the monotony and absurdity of corporate culture.

The film follows Peter Gibbons (Ron Livingston) as he rebels against his soul-crushing job at a software company.

“Office Space” struck a chord with audiences due to its relatable characters and biting social commentary, becoming a cult classic in the years following its release.

8. The Big Lebowski (1998)

Directed by the Coen brothers, “The Big Lebowski” is a crime comedy that stars Jeff Bridges as “The Dude,” a laid-back and perpetually stoned bowler who becomes entangled in a case of mistaken identity.

The film’s quirky characters, quotable dialogue, and offbeat humor have earned it a dedicated fan base and cemented its status as a cult classic.

9. Home Alone (1990)

“Home Alone,” directed by Chris Columbus, is a family comedy that follows the adventures of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) as he defends his home from two bumbling burglars.

The film’s slapstick humor and heartwarming moments resonated with audiences of all ages, making it one of the highest-grossing comedies of all time.

10. Billy Madison (1995)

Directed by Tamra Davis, “Billy Madison” stars Adam Sandler as the titular character, a man-child who must repeat grades 1 to 12 in order to inherit his father’s fortune.

Sandler’s unique brand of humor and outrageous antics made “Billy Madison” a hit with audiences, solidifying his status as a comedy superstar.

FAQs – Best 1990s Comedy Movies

1. What are some other notable comedy movies from the 1990s?

Some other notable comedy movies from the 1990s include “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993), “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” (1994), “The Wedding Singer” (1998), “American Pie” (1999), and “Annie Hall” (1997).

2. Are there any animated comedy movies from the 1990s worth mentioning?

Yes, there are several animated comedy movies from the 1990s that are worth mentioning.

These include “Toy Story” (1995), “Aladdin” (1992), “The Lion King” (1994), “Shrek” (1999), and “South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut” (1999).

3. Did any of the best 1990s comedy movies win awards?

Yes, several of the best 1990s comedy movies won awards.

For example, “Groundhog Day” received a BAFTA Award for Best Original Screenplay, while “The Big Lebowski” won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead (Jeff Bridges).

Additionally, “There’s Something About Mary” was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards.

4. Are there any underrated comedy movies from the 1990s that deserve more recognition?

Yes, there are several underrated comedy movies from the 1990s that deserve more recognition.

These include “Waiting for Guffman” (1996), “Rushmore” (1998), “The Birdcage” (1996), “In the Loop” (1999), and “Election” (1999).

5. Did any of the best 1990s comedy movies launch the careers of actors or directors?

Yes, some of the best 1990s comedy movies launched the careers of actors and directors.

For example, “Clueless” helped establish Alicia Silverstone as a leading actress, while “Office Space” showcased Mike Judge’s talent as a filmmaker.

Additionally, “There’s Something About Mary” propelled the Farrelly brothers to mainstream success.

6. Are there any comedy movie franchises that started in the 1990s?

Yes, there are several comedy movie franchises that started in the 1990s. These include the “Austin Powers” series, the “Home Alone” series, and the “American Pie” series.

7. Which 1990s comedy movies are still popular today?

Many 1990s comedy movies are still popular today. Films like “The Mask,” “Dumb and Dumber,” and “Groundhog Day” continue to entertain audiences and are often referenced in popular culture.

Additionally, the “Austin Powers” series and “There’s Something About Mary” have maintained their popularity over the years.

8. Are there any 1990s comedy movies that have been remade or rebooted?

Yes, some 1990s comedy movies have been remade or rebooted.

For example, “Dumb and Dumber” received a prequel in 2003 titled “Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd.” Additionally, “Home Alone” is set to receive a reboot in the near future.

9. Did any of the best 1990s comedy movies have a significant impact on popular culture?

Yes, several of the best 1990s comedy movies had a significant impact on popular culture.

For example, “Austin Powers” introduced catchphrases like “Yeah, baby!” and “Oh, behave!” that became widely recognized.

Additionally, “Home Alone” popularized the concept of a child outsmarting adult burglars, inspiring numerous imitations and parodies.

10. Are there any 1990s comedy movies that are considered classics?

Yes, many 1990s comedy movies are considered classics.

Films like “Groundhog Day,” “The Big Lebowski,” and “Clueless” have achieved cult status and are often cited as some of the best comedies ever made.

These movies continue to be celebrated for their humor, performances, and lasting impact on the genre.

Summary – Best 1990s Comedy Movies

The 1990s brought us a plethora of comedy movies that have stood the test of time.

From Jim Carrey’s energetic performances in “The Mask” and “Dumb and Dumber” to the satirical brilliance of “Office Space” and “The Big Lebowski,” these films continue to entertain audiences with their humor and wit.

Whether you’re in the mood for slapstick comedy, romantic hijinks, or clever social commentary, the best 1990s comedy movies have something for everyone.

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