The 70 Best Comedies Of 2012

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Updated April 30, 2024 47.2K views 70 items
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Movies must have been released in 2012.

The best comedy movies of 2012 kept audiences laughing as they hit the theaters throughout the year. These comedy films feature some of the best and most talented actors as well as witty writing, both of which combined to create comedic blockbusters. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and prepare to laugh your butts off with the best comedy movies of 2012.

The 2012 year in comedy movies brought us a number of original movies, adaptations, remakes and sequels. Many of the remakes and sequels got the most buzz, such as the remake of 21 Jump Street, the new installment of Men in Black III and American Reunion, which reunited the American Pie cast for one more adventure. But there were also plenty of original movies and adaptations that entertained viewers all year long.

Butter introduced the highly competitive world of butter sculpting, Friends with Kids showed us a different side of parenting, and For a Good Time, Call... allowed us to live vicariously through two phone sex operators. 2012 also brought us a bevy of hilarious characters such as Ted, a foul-mouthed teddy bear, The Dictator, the latest personality from Sacha Baron Cohen, and the five very different women of What to Expect When You're Expecting.

These comedy films are just a handful of those released in 2012 but highlight the funniest movies of the year. Think one movie is better than the rest? Want to add something not already listed or put this list in your own order? Do all of that and more below on this list of the best 2012 comedy movies.

Be sure to also check out the All-Time Best Comedies, The Best Romantic Comedies, and The Best Stand Up Comedy Movies on Netflix, The Best Comedy Films on Amazon Prime, and the Best Comedy Movies on Netflix

Most divisive: Moonrise Kingdom
Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 70 Best Comedies Of 2012
  • 21 Jump Street
    1
    Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson
    373 votes

    A testament to the ever-evolving landscape of comedy films, 21 Jump Street offers a thrilling and transformative take on the classic '80s TV show. Starring Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill as rookie cops sent undercover at a high school to bust a drug ring, this critically acclaimed film showcases the duo's incredible chemistry and comedic prowess. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, 21 Jump Street captivates audiences with its unique combination of action-packed sequences and gut-busting humor. With a gripping narrative and hair-raising moments, this modern adaptation stands out as a considerable comedic achievement in 2012.

  • Ted
    2
    Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane
    455 votes

    In the realm of 2012 comedy films, Ted is undeniably a standout with its ingenious blend of live-action and CGI. Directed by Seth MacFarlane, who also lends his voice to the titular character, this hilarious romp delves into the life of John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), a grown man whose childhood wish for his teddy bear to come to life came true. The film's captivating narrative explores the complexities of their enduring friendship and the challenges that come as John tries to balance his relationship with his girlfriend, Lori (Mila Kunis). With its engaging storyline, unforgettable humor, and remarkable performances, Ted solidifies itself as a cinematic achievement in the comedy genre.

  • Pitch Perfect
    3
    Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Rebel Wilson
    189 votes

    Pitch Perfect struck a chord with audiences worldwide in 2012 as a harmonious blend of comedy, music, and heartfelt storytelling. Directed by Jason Moore, this upbeat film centers on the competitive world of collegiate a cappella as a misfit named Beca (played by Anna Kendrick) reluctantly joins an all-female group and leads them to newfound success. Alongside Kendrick, the ensemble cast—which includes Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, and Skylar Astin—delivers pitch-perfect performances full of witty banter and show-stopping musical numbers. With its infectious humor and catchy tunes, Pitch Perfect secures its place in the annals of comedic cinema.

  • Men in Black 3
    4
    Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin
    230 votes

    Barry Sonnenfeld's Men in Black 3 marked the return of the beloved MIB franchise after a decade, reuniting Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones on screen for more extraterrestrial adventures. This installment delivers an entertaining blend of blockbuster action, laugh-out-loud humor, and heartfelt moments as Agent J (Smith) travels back in time to save his partner and friend, Agent K (Jones). With stellar performances from a talented cast that includes Josh Brolin and Emma Thompson, this sci-fi comedy gem exemplifies the enduring appeal of the Men in Black series.

  • The Campaign
    5
    Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis
    246 votes

    In the politically charged landscape of 2012, The Campaign emerged as a timely and hilarious satire that pulled no punches, thanks in large part to the comedic genius of stars Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis. Ferrell's portrayal of charming but dimwitted incumbent Congressman Cam Brady goes head-to-head with Galifianakis' naive yet ambitious Marty Huggins in a heated (and often absurd) race for office. Director Jay Roach displays his keen understanding of both comedy and politics, providing biting commentary amidst the hijinks. The Campaign stands out among the comedies of 2012, thanks to its uproarious humor and its uncanny ability to hold up a mirror to the outlandish nature of modern political campaigns.

  • The Dictator
    6
    Sacha Baron Cohen, Anna Faris, Ben Kingsley
    268 votes

    Sacha Baron Cohen's portrayal of the eccentric, oppressive ruler Aladeen in The Dictator is nothing short of remarkable. In this engaging and thought-provoking film, audiences embark on a captivating journey as they watch the tyrannical dictator experience a new world outside his sheltered life in the fictitious Republic of Wadiya. Directed by Larry Charles, the film successfully navigates sensitive subject matter while delivering side-splitting laughs, showcasing Cohen's unique comedic gifts. With its ingenious narrative, The Dictator solidifies itself as a standout comedy film in 2012.

  • American Reunion
    7
    Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein
    178 votes

    An ode to nostalgia, American Reunion reunites the characters from the beloved American Pie franchise for their high school reunion, marking more than a decade since their initial escapades on the big screen. Directed by Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, the film stays true to its roots while offering a fresh take on the characters' lives as they navigate the trials of adulthood. Boasting an ensemble cast, including Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, and Seann William Scott, American Reunion provides equal parts raucous humor and heart, making it a standout in the 2012 comedy scene.

  • Wreck-It Ralph
    8
    John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer
    18 votes

    Disney's Wreck-It Ralph dazzled audiences in 2012 with its vibrant animation, memorable characters, and clever video game-themed humor. Directed by Rich Moore, this heartwarming film follows the titular arcade game villain (voiced by John C. Reilly) on his quest for redemption and acceptance among his fellow characters. Boasting impressive visuals and a charming storyline, Wreck-It Ralph easily earns its position among the best comedy films of the year.

  • Silver Linings Playbook
    9
    Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
    112 votes

    An exceptional blend of comedy, drama, and romance, David O. Russell's Silver Linings Playbook packs an emotional punch while maintaining a witty and comedic edge. Starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence as two emotionally troubled individuals who unknowingly help each other heal, this film offers a nuanced, mesmerizing, and heartwarming portrayal of love and mental health. With its captivating narrative and fantastic performances, Silver Linings Playbook is undoubtedly among the best comedy movies of 2012.

  • Goon
    10
    Seann William Scott, Jay Baruchel, Alison Pill
    151 votes

    Directed by Michael Dowse, Goon centers on Doug Glatt (Seann William Scott), a bouncer whose impressive fighting skills earn him a spot on a minor league hockey team. This hilariously violent and heartwarming film offers a glimpse into the world of hockey enforcers while showcasing Scott's endearing performance as the good-hearted but simple-minded protagonist. With its engaging blend of raunchy humor and unexpected tenderness, Goon emerged as a hidden gem in the 2012 comedy lineup, delighting fans and critics alike.

  • Hotel Transylvania
    11
    Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez
    148 votes

    A delightful and endearing animated feature, Hotel Transylvania took 2012 by storm, enchanting audiences young and old alike. Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, this family-friendly comedy follows Count Dracula (voiced by Adam Sandler) as he tries to protect his daughter, Mavis (Selena Gomez), from the outside world by running a hotel that caters exclusively to monsters. When a human (Andy Samberg) stumbles upon the hotel, chaos and hilarity ensue. With its charming storyline, vibrant animation, and stellar voice cast, Hotel Transylvania sets itself apart as one of 2012's most memorable comedy films.

  • The Watch
    12
    Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill
    155 votes

    Featuring an all-star cast of comedic talent, The Watch boasts the combined brilliance of Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill, and Richard Ayoade as they portray a group of suburban dads-turned-alien hunters. Directed by Akiva Schaffer, this film offers laugh-out-loud moments amidst a sci-fi-driven storyline brimming with action and intrigue. The Watch wonderfully blends genres and styles to create a unique and memorable comedic experience for 2012 moviegoers.

  • Project X
    13
    Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper, Jonathan Daniel Brown
    168 votes

    2012 saw the release of Project X, a chaotic, outrageous, and ultimately hilarious take on the classic high school party movie. Directed by Nima Nourizadeh, this found-footage-style film follows three friends seeking to throw the ultimate bash, only to watch it spiral wildly out of control. Unafraid to push boundaries and embrace its raucous nature, Project X delivers gut-busting laughs and unforgettable moments, solidifying its status as a standout comedy flick in 2012.

  • Moonrise Kingdom
    14
    Bruce Willis, Ed Norton, Bill Murray
    160 votes

    Wes Anderson's signature whimsy and visual splendor shine in Moonrise Kingdom, making it a standout comedy film of 2012. Set in the 1960s on a quaint New England island, this quirky love story centers around two young misfits who run away together, sparking a frantic search by the island's eclectic inhabitants. Boasting an all-star ensemble cast, including Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, and Edward Norton, Moonrise Kingdom manages to capture Anderson's unique vision and humor, standing out as a cinematic gem.

  • This is 40
    15
    Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, John Lithgow
    144 votes

    Judd Apatow's insightful and incisive examination of middle age is brought to life in This Is 40, a spin-off from his earlier hit Knocked Up. Reprising their roles, Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann explore the triumphs and tribulations that come with reaching the titular milestone. Apatow's trademark blend of humor and heart is on full display in this witty and relatable film. This Is 40 offers laughs and poignant moments in equal measure, making it a standout comedy of 2012.

  • This Means War
    16
    Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy
    54 votes

    In This Means War, director McG blends romance, comedy, and action to create a uniquely captivating film experience. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, and Tom Hardy, this film revolves around two CIA agents-turned-rivals as they vie for the affections of the same woman. The chemistry between the leads, coupled with the high-octane action sequences, makes for an entertaining and irresistible comedy that stands out among the 2012 releases.

  • Seven Psychopaths
    17
    Colin Farrell, Christopher Walken, Sam Rockwell
    61 votes

    Seven Psychopaths, written and directed by Martin McDonagh, is a darkly comedic and violent exploration of the creative process, as a struggling screenwriter becomes entangled in the dangerous world of his eccentric friends. With an impressive ensemble cast, including Colin Farrell, Sam Rockwell, and Christopher Walken, this film offers equal parts humor and bloodshed, making for a memorable and unique cinematic experience.

  • Liberal Arts
    18
    Josh Radnor, Elizabeth Olsen, Richard Jenkins
    14 votes
    A New York college adviser (Josh Radnor) becomes involved with a student (Elizabeth Olsen) when he returns to his alma mater in Ohio for a favorite professor's (Richard Jenkins) retirement party.
  • Safety Not Guaranteed
    19
    Kristen Bell, Aubrey Plaza, Jeff Garlin
    9 votes

    In Safety Not Guaranteed, director Colin Trevorrow deftly blends comedy, drama, and science fiction to tell the story of three journalists investigating a mysterious classified ad seeking a companion for time travel. Starring Aubrey Plaza, Mark Duplass, and Jake M. Johnson, this film expertly balances heartfelt moments with unexpected humor in its exploration of human connection and the power of belief. Safety Not Guaranteed is a truly original and captivating comedy film from 2012.

  • In the House
    20
    Fabrice Luchini, Ernst Umhauer, Kristin Scott Thomas
    13 votes

    Directed by François Ozon, In the House is a French comedy-drama that explores themes of storytelling, creativity, and obsession. Centered around a high school literature teacher (Fabrice Luchini) who becomes enthralled by a student's writing, the film skillfully blurs the line between reality and fiction, injecting humor and intrigue into every scene. Its captivating narrative and strong performances make In the House a noteworthy entry in the 2012 comedy film landscape.

  • The Chef
    21
    Jean Reno, Santiago Segura, Julien Boisselier
    13 votes

    The Chef, directed by Daniel Cohen, is a delightful French comedy that centers around a celebrated but struggling chef who forms an unlikely alliance with a talented self-taught cook. This heartwarming and appetizing film showcases the joy of food and friendship against the backdrop of the competitive culinary world. With its mouthwatering visuals, engaging performances, and satisfying humor, The Chef is a standout comedy from 2012.

  • Ruby Sparks
    22
    Paul Dano, Zoe Kazan, Antonio Banderas
    13 votes

    Ruby Sparks tells the story of a struggling novelist who conjures up his ideal woman through his writing, only to have her come to life. Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, this intriguing and whimsical romantic comedy stars Paul Dano and Zoe Kazan (who also penned the screenplay). With its inventive premise, enchanting story, and engaging performances, Ruby Sparks is easily one of the most memorable comedies of 2012.

  • A Fantastic Fear of Everything
    23
    Simon Pegg, Amara Karan, Clare Higgins
    13 votes

    Simon Pegg shines in A Fantastic Fear of Everything, a dark and quirky comedy that follows the misadventures of a paranoid writer plagued by irrational fears. Directed by Crispian Mills and Chris Hopewell, the film blends offbeat humor, vivid visuals, and psychological exploration to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience. Its inventive premise and standout performance from Pegg establish A Fantastic Fear of Everything as one of the best comedy films of 2012.

  • Gambit
    24
    Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Tom Courtenay
    13 votes

    The crime-comedy film Gambit, directed by Michael Hoffman, stars Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, and Alan Rickman in a quirky caper involving art forgery and corporate espionage. This contemporary reimagining of the 1966 film boasts a screenplay by the Coen brothers, infusing the story with their signature dark humor and eccentric characters. Gambit proves to be an entertaining blend of twists, turns, and laughs, earning its spot among 2012's best comedy movies.

  • Piranha 3DD
    25
    Danielle Panabaker, Matt Bush, David Koechner
    13 votes

    For fans of horror-comedy, Piranha 3DD delivers a campy, gory, and wildly entertaining spectacle. Serving as a sequel to the 2010 film Piranha 3D, this installment ups the ante with even more outrageous scenarios and over-the-top violence. Directed by John Gulager, Piranha 3DD revels in its absurdity, making it a standout cinematic experience for those seeking a wild and bloody ride with plenty of laughs along the way.

  • The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists!
    26
    Salma Hayek, David Tennant, Hugh Grant
    13 votes

    Aardman Animations, the studio behind Wallace & Gromit, delivered another delightful claymation adventure in 2012 with The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! (also known as The Pirates! Band of Misfits). Directed by Peter Lord, this family-friendly comedy tells the tale of a bumbling pirate captain, voiced by Hugh Grant, as he competes for the Pirate of the Year Award. With its clever humor, charming characters, and beautiful animation, this film is a treasure trove among 2012's comedy offerings.

  • Iron Sky
    27
    Charlie Chaplin, Udo Kier, Julia Dietze
    13 votes

    Iron Sky boldly enters the realm of science fiction comedy with its outrageous premise of Nazis returning to Earth from their lunar base in 2018. Directed by Timo Vuorensola, this audacious film embraces its outlandish concept, delivering laugh-out-loud moments amid the action-packed chaos. Iron Sky stands out as a memorable, genre-bending entry in 2012 comedy films.

  • Frances Ha
    28
    Greta Gerwig, Mickey Sumner, Michael Zegen
    13 votes
    Frances (Greta Gerwig) goes from apartment to apartment in Brooklyn as she looks for a job and a stable partner.
  • Sightseers
    29
    Alice Lowe, Steve Oram, Eileen Davies
    13 votes

    In Ben Wheatley's dark comedy Sightseers, a seemingly ordinary couple embarks on a road trip through the British countryside, only to reveal their penchant for murder along the way. With its twisted humor, grisly violence, and seamless blend of horror and comedy elements, Sightseers offers a unique, unforgettable cinematic experience that sets it apart from other comedy films of 2012.

  • Mac & Devin Go to High School
    30
    Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Tyga
    13 votes

    Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa join forces in Mac & Devin Go to High School, an outrageous stoner comedy that serves as a vehicle for their collaborative album of the same name. The film follows the unlikely friendship between an overachieving high school student and a laid-back, marijuana-loving peer as they navigate the trials and tribulations of teenage life. Directed by Dylan C. Brown, this amusing and unapologetic celebration of cannabis culture is sure to provide plenty of laughs for fans of the genre.