22 Comedy Gems Everyone Should Watch at Least Once

1. The 40 Year-Old Virgin 2005，IMDB Rating: 7.1，Douban Rating: 6.7，ID: tt0405422
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The 40 Year-Old Virgin, directed by Judd Apatow, is a comedy that masterfully balances humor with a heartfelt story. The movie stars Steve Carell as Andy Stitzer, a 40-year-old virgin, who is pushed by his friends to lose his virginity. The movie is not just about laughs, but it also connects with the audience on a deeper level. It’s a comedy that everyone should watch at least once for its unique blend of humor and emotion.
2. Along Came Polly 2004，IMDB Rating: 6.0，Douban Rating: 6.4，ID: tt0343135
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Along Came Polly is a delightful comedy that juxtaposes the life of a risk-averse individual with a free-spirited woman. Despite the mixed reviews, the movie’s zany humor and memorable performances make it a must-watch. It’s a testament to the power of comedy in highlighting the contrasts and absurdities of life, making us laugh at situations we can all relate to. So, if you’re looking for a light-hearted comedy that will make you chuckle and reflect on the quirks of life and relationships, Along Came Polly is a movie you should not miss.
3. Airplane! 1980，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt0080339
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Airplane! 1980 is a classic comedy that offers more than just laughs. Its clever parody of disaster movies and Hollywood dramas provides a cultural commentary that is both entertaining and insightful. The movie’s humor, while seemingly juvenile and silly, is actually quite sophisticated in its critique of popular film tropes. This makes Airplane! 1980 not just a must-watch comedy, but also an interesting study of film and culture. As a movie fan who values education and cultural insight, Chen Wei might find this movie to be a refreshing and enlightening viewing experience.
4. Annie Hall 1977，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.6，ID: tt0075686
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Annie Hall, directed by Woody Allen and starring Allen himself and Diane Keaton, is a film that stands out in the realm of comedy. It’s a film that’s both intellectual and witty, filled with cultural references and humor that’s both sophisticated and accessible. The chemistry between Allen and Keaton is palpable, making their characters’ romance feel real and relatable. The film’s humor is deeply rooted in its characters and their interactions, making it a timeless classic that’s as enjoyable today as it was in 1977.
5. Blazing Saddles 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 7.3，ID: tt0071230
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Blazing Saddles, directed by Mel Brooks, is a comedy classic that has stood the test of time. The film’s humor is daring, provocative, and laugh-out-loud funny. It’s a gleefully vulgar spoof of Westerns and marks a high point in Mel Brooks’ storied career. The film’s plot revolves around a crafty railroad worker, Bart, who becomes the first black sheriff of Rock Ridge. The film’s humor embraces excess, with scenes that keep the audience laughing.
6. Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 7.4，ID: tt0443453
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Borat, a film that takes you on a hilarious journey through America, is a must-watch for any comedy lover. Sacha Baron Cohen’s portrayal of Borat, a naive Kazakhstani journalist, is both humorous and thought-provoking. The film’s unscripted interactions with real-life Americans provide a unique blend of comedy and social commentary, making it a standout in the comedy genre.
7. Caddyshack 1980，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 6.5，ID: tt0080487
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Based on the information gathered from the search results, “Caddyshack” is a 1980 comedy film that has been praised for its classic slapstick, unforgettable characters, and endlessly quotable dialogue. The movie features a star-studded cast including Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Ted Knight. The film’s humor is derived from the diverse comedic styles of its stars, with Murray’s self-absorbed craziness, Chase’s laid-back bemusement, and Dangerfield’s blatant scenery-chewing. Despite its lack of a consistent comic note and a well-developed plot, the film has been appreciated for its classic slapstick and unforgettable characters.
8. Clueless 1995，IMDB Rating: 6.8，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0112697
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

**Clueless 1995** is a delightful comedy that brilliantly satirizes the life of privileged teenagers in Beverly Hills. The film’s strength lies in its witty dialogue and memorable characters, particularly the self-absorbed yet endearing Cher, played by Alicia Silverstone. The movie’s satirical take on teen films and the Beverly Hills lifestyle adds a layer of depth to the humor, making it a standout in the comedy genre. Despite its seemingly superficial premise, **Clueless** offers insightful commentary on social dynamics and the adolescent experience, making it a must-watch comedy.
9. Dumb & Dumber 1994，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 7.3，ID: tt0109686
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

“Dumb & Dumber” is a comedy classic that delivers a hearty dose of laughter. The film’s charm lies in its unapologetic silliness, brought to life by the dynamic duo of Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels. Their performances, filled with physical comedy and hilarious dialogue, are truly the heart of the movie. The plot, while simple, serves as the perfect backdrop for their comedic antics. However, the film isn’t just about laughs. Beneath its goofy exterior, it explores themes of friendship and loyalty. Despite its age, “Dumb & Dumber” remains a must-watch comedy, a testament to its enduring appeal.
10. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 8.0，ID: tt0091042
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a delightful journey into the carefree world of a charming teenager. The film, filled with humor and a sense of adventure, takes us through a day in the life of Ferris Bueller, who decides to take a day off from school. The movie brilliantly captures the spirit of youth and rebellion, while also subtly commenting on the value of self-respect and the fast pace of life.
11. Groundhog Day 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.6，ID: tt0107048
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Groundhog Day, directed by Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray, is a comedy classic that has stood the test of time. The film’s premise, where Murray’s character Phil finds himself living the same day over and over again, is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The transformation of Phil from a self-centered weatherman to a man who learns to appreciate life and the people around him is beautifully portrayed. The film’s humor is subtle yet impactful, making it a must-watch comedy.
12. Knocked Up 2007，IMDB Rating: 6.9，Douban Rating: 6.5，ID: tt0478311
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Knocked Up, directed by Judd Apatow, is a romantic comedy that provides a hilarious and poignant look at courtship and child-rearing. The film stars Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl, whose characters navigate an unexpected pregnancy after a one-night stand. Despite not being explicitly listed in the top 45 comedy movies, its high ratings and positive reviews suggest it’s a film worth watching.
13. The Hangover 2009，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt1119646
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Hangover is a comedy that delivers on all fronts. It’s a wild ride from start to finish, filled with hilarious situations and unforgettable characters. The film’s strength lies in its clever script and the interplay among the cast. Each character is distinct and contributes to the humor in their own unique way. The situations they find themselves in are absurd yet somehow believable, adding to the film’s charm. Despite its raunchy humor, the movie manages to evoke a sense of camaraderie and friendship among the characters, making it not just a comedy, but also a story about friendship. However, The Hangover is not without its flaws. Some of the humor can be crass and offensive, which might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the plot relies heavily on the element of surprise, which might lose its effect on subsequent viewings. The Hangover is a comedy that delivers non-stop laughs and memorable characters. It’s a movie that everyone should watch at least once for a good laugh. Despite its flaws, its strengths make it a standout in the comedy genre and a movie worth watching.
14. Mean Girls 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 6.9，ID: tt0377092
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

As a movie lover who appreciates realism and meaningful narratives, I found ‘Mean Girls’ to be a refreshing take on the high school experience. The movie cleverly uses humor to shed light on the dynamics of high school cliques and the pressures of popularity. Lindsay Lohan delivers a compelling performance as Cady Heron, a smart girl navigating the treacherous waters of high school social hierarchies.
15. Napoleon Dynamite 2004，IMDB Rating: 6.9，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0374900
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Napoleon Dynamite is a unique comedy that pushes the boundaries of humor with its portrayal of a socially awkward protagonist. The film, directed by Jared Hess, tells the story of Napoleon Dynamite, a nerdy high school student who navigates life in a small town. Despite its unconventional humor and characters, the film has been recognized as a charming, quirky, and often funny comedy.
16. Office Space 1999，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 6.8，ID: tt0151804
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Office Space is a 1999 comedy film that brilliantly satirizes the monotony and frustrations of office life. The film’s strength lies in its sharp and witty dialogue, as well as its relatable characters. However, some may find the depiction of office life to be a bit exaggerated and the humor might not appeal to everyone. Despite these minor flaws, Office Space is a hilarious and insightful comedy that offers a refreshing take on the drudgery of office life. It’s definitely a film worth watching, and it’s no surprise that it’s included in the list of top 45 comedy movies that everyone should watch at least once.
17. Shaun of the Dead 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt0365748
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

As a lover of adventurous and creative movies, I found ‘Shaun of the Dead’ to be a delightful blend of horror and comedy. The film cleverly uses the zombie apocalypse backdrop to highlight the mundane aspects of everyday life, resulting in a hilarious contrast that kept me entertained throughout. The characters are well-developed, with Shaun’s transformation from a laid-back slacker to a zombie-slaying hero being particularly engaging. However, the film’s reliance on gore might not appeal to everyone, and some of the humor is distinctly British, which might not resonate with all viewers. Despite these minor issues, ‘Shaun of the Dead’ is a unique and innovative film that offers a fresh take on the zombie genre. It’s no wonder it’s often listed as a comedy everyone should watch at least once. Whether you’re a fan of horror, comedy, or both, ‘Shaun of the Dead’ is a movie that’s worth checking out.
18. Some Like It Hot 1959，IMDB Rating: 8.2，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0053291
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Some Like It Hot is a timeless masterpiece that brilliantly blends humor, gender-bending antics, and unforgettable performances. The film’s fast-paced narrative and clever dialogue keep you engaged, while the performances, particularly by Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe, are truly captivating. Monroe’s charm is irresistible, adding a layer of sweetness to the film’s overall hilarity. The film’s inclusion in the list of must-watch comedies is well-deserved, as it continues to entertain audiences with its unique blend of humor and drama. It’s a film that doesn’t just make you laugh, but also makes you appreciate the artistry and creativity that went into its making.
19. Superbad 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 6.9，ID: tt0829482
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Superbad, a 2007 comedy, is a raucous ride through the trials and tribulations of high school friendships and the awkwardness of the teenage years. Its blend of crude humor and genuine sentimentality creates a unique narrative that resonates with audiences. However, the film’s pacing and character development could have been more evenly distributed, as the separation of the main characters mid-film somewhat disrupts the narrative flow. Despite this, Superbad stands as a testament to the genre, offering an authentic and often hilarious depiction of high school life. It’s no surprise that it has earned its place among the top 45 comedy movies that everyone should watch at least once. It’s a film that will make you laugh, cringe, and reminisce about your own high school experiences.
20. This Is Spinal Tap 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt0088258
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

This Is Spinal Tap, directed by Rob Reiner, is a comedic masterpiece that brilliantly satirizes the world of rock music. The film’s humor, derived from its clever dialogue and memorable scenes, makes it a classic in the comedy genre. The performances are superb, with each actor delivering their lines with a comedic timing that is nothing short of genius.
21. Tropic Thunder 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 6.9，ID: tt0942385
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Tropic Thunder is a comedic gem that brilliantly satirizes Hollywood and its eccentricities. The film’s humor is biting and subversive, with Robert Downey Jr.’s performance standing out as particularly memorable. Despite some unevenness in its execution, the film’s bold humor and clever commentary make it a must-watch for any comedy lover. Its inclusion in the ‘Top 45 comedy movies that everyone should watch at least once’ is well-deserved, offering a unique blend of action and comedy that keeps audiences entertained from start to finish.
22. Zoolander 2001，IMDB Rating: 6.5，Douban Rating: 5.8，ID: tt0196229
Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Zoolander, a 2001 comedy, offers a humorous and satirical take on the fashion industry through the lens of a dimwitted male model, Derek Zoolander, played brilliantly by Ben Stiller. Despite some controversial scenes, the movie’s humor and the performances of its lead actors make it a memorable watch. Its relevance in the realm of comedy is undeniable, making it a potential candidate for the list of top comedy movies to watch. However, it’s worth noting that humor is subjective, and what tickles one’s funny bone might not work for another. As a movie lover, I found Zoolander to be a delightful blend of silliness and satire, making it a comedy worth watching.