Key Takeaways:
- Iconic Films: The ’90s produced some of the most memorable comedy movies, blending various genres.
- Star Power: This era featured legendary comedians like Jim Carrey and Robin Williams, who delivered unforgettable performances.
- Holiday Classics: Movies like Home Alone became annual holiday favorites for families.
- Diverse Genres: Comedies from this decade ranged from romantic comedies to dark thrillers, showcasing a wide array of humor.
The ’90s were a great period for comedy movies. Some of the most iconic films in the genre were released during this era, from rewatchable family-friendly movies to darkly comedic thrillers to beloved sequels to raunchy R-rated releases. It might’ve been the best time for the genre.
Not only was the ’90s the place to go for funny and memorable movies, but it also featured some of the biggest stars in comedy history. Jim Carrey, Leslie Nielsen, Chris Tucker, Robin Williams, and more were prominent during the era, while the likes of Marisa Tomei and Julia Roberts gave us hilarious performances too.
1990: Home Alone
1990 was a good year for comedies that blended genres. Back to the Future Part III was a sci-fi western, Pretty Woman is a classic romantic comedy, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles has a lot of action, and House Party is just a great time.
Taking the top spot for 1990 is one of the most consistently rewatched films ever, Home Alone. The movie is viewed by longtime fans on an almost annual basis during the holiday season as it’s basically the perfect Christmas film. Beyond that though, it’s genuinely hilarious.
Macaulay Culkin is asked to lead this movie, mostly on his own, and does a great job. From the famous “Buzz’s girlfriend” scene to a young Kieran Culkin drinking too much soda to the barrage of shenanigans as Kevin fights off the guys trying to rob the house, Home Alone is just so much fun.
1991: The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell Of Fear
Several notable comedies were released in 1991. There was the gothic film The Addams Family, the fantastic buddy comedy Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, the lovable Father of the Bride, the ridiculous Hot Shots, and Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead.
However, it’s difficult to top the comedic stylings of the legendary Leslie Nielsen. After doing tremendous work in the original, he was on his game again for The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear, which takes what worked in the first movie and gives us more of it, including classic Frank Drebin antics.
While it doesn’t quite best the first installment, this sequel is nearly just as funny. Nielsen is as funny as it gets and the film is relentless in having gags that are designed to make you laugh through almost every scene. Not many comedies can match that level of commitment.
1992: Army Of Darkness
1992 is one of the toughest years to pick the best comedy. My Cousin Vinny saw Marisa Tomei win an Oscar, while Home Alone 2: Lost in New York doubles down on the comedy from the original. There’s also Sister Act, The Mighty Ducks, White Men Can’t Jump, Wayne’s World, and Encino Man, to name a few.
In a surprising move, the year’s best comedy film comes from the horror franchise, Evil Dead. Sam Raimi is a legend of the genre, yet Evil Dead II added comedic elements before the third entry, Army of Darkness, went full-on absurd and into the realm of hilarious.
Bruce Campbell really shines when he has to deliver his funniest lines in Army of Darkness. His delivery is perfect and Raimi fully understands how dumb and absurd the entire thing is, which is why it works so well. The movie is endlessly quotable and its style was key to the Ash vs. Evil Dead TV series years later.
1993: Mrs. Doubtfire
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