A television channel focused on comedy has assembled a list of the best comedies released in the 21st century, based on a careful synthesis of professional reviews, audience scores, and box office performance across major outlets worldwide. The compilation reflects a broad sense of what has resonated with viewers and critics alike, spanning different styles, tones, and national cinemas to offer a representative snapshot of contemporary humor on the global stage.
At the very top sits Todd Phillips’ The Hangover series, which leads the rankings as a standout example of modern ensemble comedy. The films are celebrated for their pacing, inventive plotting, and the way they mix outrageous set pieces with solid character dynamics, keeping audiences returning for repeated viewings. Close on its heels is Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel, a lyric drama that many listeners and readers regard as one of the most stylish and meticulously crafted comedies of the era. Its blend of whimsy, quick-fire dialogue, and meticulously designed visuals creates a distinct mood that has made it a touchstone for contemporary genre filmmaking.
Completing the top three is Shaun the Zombies, Edgar Wright’s sharp British horror comedy that blends suspense, fast-paced action, and sly humor. The film’s inventive editing, rapid-fire humor, and deft genre blending helped redefine what a horror-comedy could achieve in a way that remains influential for many writers and directors who followed. The list also highlights other notable international and regional successes that demonstrate the diversity of the period’s comedic output.
Among the prominent entries are the French comedy 1+1 from Klim Shipenko’s peers, which shows how international collaborations have expanded the comedic conversation beyond borders. Russia’s 2019 hit Kholop also makes the cut, illustrating how locally rooted humor can translate into broad appeal when it connects with universal themes. These titles underscore the variety within the field and the willingness of audiences to embrace humor that reflects different cultural sensibilities while still delivering broad amusement.
Additional titles on the list include Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi’s audacious take that mixes satire, character study, and a bold tonal shift, as well as Borat, Larry Charles’s mockumentary that pushed boundaries and sparked ongoing discussions about satire and representation. Kick-Ass, the action-forward comic adaptation by Matthew Vaughn, demonstrates how humor can coexist with high-energy spectacle and subversive bravado. I’m Losing Weight, from Alexei Nuzhny, showcases how contemporary comedies can tackle everyday life with honesty and humor, earning a place among peers considered essential viewing for fans of the genre.
The curators emphasize that the ranking draws on a blend of sources to reflect a well-rounded view of each title. Reviews from prominent critics, aggregated audience ratings, and sustained box office performance all contribute to the overall standing. The list also incorporates data from well-known platforms and publication series that regularly assess and compare films within the comedy spectrum. By triangulating these inputs, the compilation aims to present a credible, widely informed portrait of what counts as a standout comedy in the current era. The process involved cross-checking lists and ratings from multiple portals to ensure that the selections represent both critical esteem and popular appeal across diverse audiences.