The Best Indie Comedies Of 2022
1Cooper Raiff, Dakota Johnson, Leslie MannAcclaimed indie director Copper Raiff is continuing his winning streak with this Sundance-premiering crowd-pleaser. He stars as a listless college grad who moves home after school and stars being a bar and bat mitzvah hype man for his little brother's friends. Dakota Johnson executive produces and plays a mom to a child with autism. A sweet and hilarious coming-of-age comedy, Cha Cha Real Smooth is streaming on Apple TV+.
Fresh out of college and stuck at his New Jersey home without a clear path forward, 22-year-old Andrew begins working for bar mitzvahs; while attending a bar mitzvah, he discovers his talent as a party organizer, which brings him numerous jobs; when he forms a unique friendship with a young mother and her teenage daughter with autism, his life begins to flourish.More Cha Cha Real Smooth
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2Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy QuanWhile this A24 Michelle Yeoh vehicle ticks many genres, absurdity and comedy propel this groundbreaking story forward. With a feature debut like Swiss Army Man you know the Daniels are going to give us something unexpected and incredibly entertaining. Yeoh, Jenny Slate, and Jamie Lee Curtis bring the laughs and the martial arts skills. Look out for a long running Ratatouille joke that will bring tears to your eyes.
In Everything Everywhere All at Once, Michelle Yeoh stars as Evelyn Wang, a seemingly ordinary woman grappling with the bureaucracy of her family-run laundromat. An unexpected visit from an inter-dimensional messenger (Ke Huy Quan) catapults her into a cosmic journey across parallel universes. This sci-fi comedy-drama, directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, weaves together themes of identity and connectivity in a universe-bending narrative. The film's intricate storytelling is complemented by its memorable characters including her estranged husband (James Hong) and quirky daughter (Stephanie Hsu), adding depth to this visually stunning cinematic marvel.
3Renate Reinsve, Anders Danielsen Lie, Herbert NordrumIt would be easy for The Worst Person in the World to laugh at its protagonist, a young millennial woman sleeping with multiple men and trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. Instead Norwegian director Joachim Trier finds humor in empathy. Renate Reinsve is both relatable and hilariously clueless as Julie, making her performance one of the biggest standouts over the last two years.
A young woman battles indecisiveness as she traverses the troubled waters of her love life and struggles to find her career path.
4Jerrod Carmichael, Christopher Abbott, Tiffany HaddishTwo friends, both depressed, decide to end it all. While this movie fits into many genres, comedian Jerrod Carmichael (writer, director, and star) uses his unique voice to tell a story all his own. Will Val (Jerrod Carmichael) and Kevin (Christopher Abbott) destroy each other before they can destroy themselves? Like his standup, the film threads a fine line between laughs and serious topics like suicide and sexual assault. A black comedy in every sense of the word, On the Count of Three will make you laugh and think.
On the Count of Three is a darkly comic drama that centers on themes of friendship, mental health, and the search for a reason to live. The film follows two friends, Val (Jerrod Carmichael) and Kevin (Christopher Abbott), who are both struggling with their profound issues. On one fateful day, they decide to make a suicide pact but choose to fulfill some personal unfinished business beforehand. Their journey is both harrowing and humorous, leading to surprising self-discoveries and reflections on life's value. Directed by Carmichael in his directorial debut, the film takes a candid and often raw look at despair, camaraderie, and the human condition.
5David Earl, Chris Hayward, Louise BrealeyThis indie darling stole hearts at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival for its heartfelt and hilarious retelling of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. David Earl plays Brian and lonely but sweet inventor who decides to create a robot when he comes across an abandoned washing machine in the Welsh countryside. When his plan unexpectedly works he must cope with protecting his creation from the world. Brian and Charles is a weird but quotable adaptation of an English classic.
Brian and Charles is set in the quaint Welsh countryside, where Brian (David Earl), a lonely and quirky inventor, creates Charles (Chris Hayward), an artificially intelligent robot built from various household items. Despite the robot’s massive, ungainly appearance and initial inability to function properly, a deep and comedic friendship develops between creator and creation. The film charmingly layers themes of companionship, innovation, and the human need for connection. The eccentric duo encounters adventures and hurdles, including integrating Charles into the skeptical local community, leading to moments of heartwarming humor and poignant reflection on the nature of friendship.
6Daniel Zolghadri, Matt Maher, Miles EmanuelA teenage cartoonist rejects the comforts of his suburban life and leaves home, finding an unwilling teacher and unwitting friend in Wallace, a former low-level comic artist.
7Karen Gillan, Aaron Paul, Beulah KoaleDirector Riley Stearns uses comedy to examine bettering ones self in this Sundance premiering satire. Karen Gillian pulls double duty as Sarah and her clone, a decision made when she finds out she's dying. When death is no longer on the table, Sarah is forced by her government to fight to the death. Often uncomfortable and always thought provoking, Dual is a true philosophical cringe comedy.
In Dual, a woman named Sarah (Karen Gillan) opts for a cloning procedure to ease the loss for her loved ones when she’s diagnosed with a terminal illness. But upon her unexpected recovery, she must duel her clone to the death for legal custody of her identity. The film is a darkly comedic take on identity, the human desire for self-preservation, and the existential questions of existence. The tension escalates towards a fight for dominance in a world that isn't big enough for both versions of her. Dual offers a unique mix of sci-fi and a satirical edge, playing out a bizarre yet thought-provoking scenario.More Dual- #19 of 37 onThe Best Movies About Clones That'll Make You See Double
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8Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sebastian Stan, Jonica T. GibbsThe first 30 minutes of Mimi Cave's Fresh is set up like a romantic comedy. Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is tired of dating the same old guys on dating apps and is swept off her feet by a man she meets in the produce aisle. Sebastian Stan is adorably sweet and charming, spouting flirtatious one-liners one after another. But then the credits roll. The film morphs into a biting and gory satire, one that's just as funny but more sharp.
The horrors of modern dating are seen through the eyes of a young woman who is battling to survive her new boyfriend's unusual appetites.More Fresh- #20 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
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9B.J. Novak, Boyd Holbrook, Issa RaeA journalist and podcaster travels from New York City to Texas to investigate the death of a woman whom he hooked up with.
10Machine Gun Kelly, Mod Sun, Becky GRapper Machine Gun Kelly is fully stepping into the movie business with Good Mourning, a romantic stoner comedy which he also wrote and directed. It follows a movie star (Kelly), who after receiving a cryptic text from his girlfriend, believes they are going to break up. He then goes through hilarious lengths to get in touch with her.
A movie star must choose between pursuing his one true love or landing a life-changing role in a film.
11Tom Stourton, Charly Clive, Georgina CampbellTurn up your anxiety to eleven in this low-key horror comedy that will have you chuckling nervously as you watch it with friends. While this unsettling British film might have you looking at your friend group with a bit more skeptisism, it's also hilarious so you're bound to have fun along the way.
Pete is cautiously excited about reuniting with his college crew for a birthday weekend. But, one by one, his friends slowly turn against him.
12Jim Broadbent, Helen Mirren, Fionn WhiteheadPart caper, part comedic heist film, this British export will bring the laughs. Jim Broadbent plays a politically active old geezer hellbent sticking it to the government and the BBC. Helen Mirren plays his long suffering wife who has to endear even more when a famous painting suddenly falls into her family's possession. Soon all of England is looking for it.
The Duke, a British comedy-drama film released in 2020, is based on the true story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver from Newcastle (Jim Broadbent). The film tells the humorous and heartfelt story of Bunton's 1961 theft of Francisco Goya's portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. Bunton’s wife (Helen Mirren) supports his motivation for the theft: a protest against the government's investment in expensive artworks rather than addressing pressing social issues like pensioner care. Directed by Roger Michell, the movie examines the power of one individual's actions against the backdrop of working-class Britain. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and was well-received, with critics praising Broadbent's and Mirren's performances.
13Emma Thompson, Daryl McCormack, Isabella LaughlandEmma Thompson gives a career defining performance in this sex-positive comedy about a retiree who hires a young sex worker. A conversation film a la My Dinner with Andre, Good Luck to You Leo Grande is a charming and thought-provoking take about sex work like you've never seen. Daryl McCormack is a star in the making as the direct and attentive Leo Grande.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande is a 2022 dramedy that explores self-acceptance, sexual liberation, and the quest for fulfillment. Directed by Sophie Hyde, the film follows Nancy Stokes, a retired schoolteacher (Emma Thompson), who, seeking adventure and an escape from her mundane widowhood, hires a young sex worker named Leo Grande, (Daryl McCormack). Their encounter leads to candid conversations, self-revelation, and unexpected moments of personal growth. As the two characters connect, the film presents a thoughtful examination of intimacy, pleasure, and the societal taboos around sex, particularly for an older woman. Emma Thompson's performance has been particularly lauded for her frank, vulnerable portrayal.
14Mark Rylance, Sally Hawkins, Rhys IfansIn The Phantom of the Open acting greats Mark Rylance and Sally Hawkins play a real life couple Jean and Maurice Flitcroft, the latter of which scammed the British Open into letting him play in their tournament. This true story is written by Paddington 2 co-writer Simon Barnaby and director Craig Roberts and is as quirky as you think it is. As Maurice sneaks on the green and tries to further his dream, class divides and his own son's shame throws a wrench in his plans.
The Phantom of the Open tells the heartwarming and true story of Maurice Flitcroft (Mark Rylance), a shipyard worker from Barrow-in-Furness who managed to gain entry to the 1976 British Open Golf Championship qualifying, despite a complete lack of experience playing golf. The character of Flitcroft became a folk hero for his audacious attempt and indomitable spirit. The film also features the character's supportive wife (Sally Hawkins) in the plot. The film examines themes of perseverance, optimism, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. It presents a humorous and uplifting underdog tale that captures the essence of sporting passion and the enduring human spirit.- #91 of 102 onThe Best British Comedy Movies
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15Asa Butterfield, Gwendoline Christie, Ariane LabedFlux Gourmet delves into the peculiar world of sonic catering, where a collective combines culinary arts with experimental noise-making. Set within an artistic retreat known as the Institute, the film follows the group's internal dynamics and the gastrointestinal troubles of Stones, the "dossierge," or documentarian (Asa Butterfield). The group prepares for their audibly delectable performances under the watchful eye of the institute's enigmatic leader (Gwendoline Christie). As the plot progresses, the tensions rise and creative disagreements come to a boil between the characters. The narrative is a medley of sensory experiences, layering themes of power struggles, and the intersection of art and commerce in a satirical and avant-garde style.
16Harris Dickinson, Charlbi Dean Kriek, Woody HarrelsonTwo models and a cleaning lady become stranded on a desert island with a group of billionaires.
17Lil Rel Howery, Josh Brener, Taryn ManningWhen best friends Jonesie and Sid both break up with their girlfriends, they decide to move in together in a misguided attempt to help each other get through this tough time. Alongside their pals Angry Mike and Runway Dave, things move quickly from heartbreak to hilarity to life and potentially death.
18Marina Foïs, Fabrice Eboué, Jean-François CayreyWhen a struggling butcher accidentally kills a vegan activist who's vandalizing his store, he uses his skills to dispose of the body -- to the delight of his clueless customers.- 19Emma Roberts, Thomas Mann, Britt RobertsonTwo strangers believe in love but never seem to be able to find its true meaning. In a wild twist of events, fate puts each in the other's path on one stormy New Year's Eve.
20Regina Hall, Sterling K. Brown, Austin CruteProud first lady of a Southern Baptist megachurch, Trinitie Childs carries immense responsibility on her shoulders. After a scandal involving her husband, the church is forced to temporarily close, leaving Trinitie struggling to manage the aftermath. Now, she and her spouse must rebuild their congregation and reconcile their faith by all means necessary to make the biggest comeback that commodified religion has ever seen.- #39 of 148 onThe Best Female Leading Movies Of 2022
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21Javier Bardem, Almudena Amor, Manolo SoloAwaiting a visit by a committee that could give his company an award for excellence, the owner of an industrial scales manufacturing business tries to resolve any problems from his workers.
22Sally Phillips, Erik Thomson, Alexander EnglandInspired by a birthday surprise from her friends, a 50-year-old woman has a business idea to launch an all-male house-cleaning service.
23Laure Calamy, Benjamin Lavernhe, Olivia CôteA teacher embarks on a long journey with a donkey to find her secret lover in the countryside.
24Patton Oswalt, James Morosini, Claudia SulewskiI Love My Dad is a cringe-inducing comedy film from 2022, based on a true story, that pushes the boundaries of awkward parental relationships. Written and directed by James Morosini, who also stars as the protagonist Franklin, the film follows a troubled young man who blocks his estranged father online. Desperate for connection, the father, (Patton Oswalt), catfishes his son by impersonating a waitress on social media, leading to a series of bizarre and uncomfortable situations. The film balances humor with heartfelt exploration of familial bonds, deception, and the longing for reconciliation. Its unique storyline and poignant performances won it the Grand Jury Prize at SXSW.
25Jorge Lendeborg, Jenna Ortega, Allen MaldonadoAmerican Carnage is a 2022 horror-comedy that ventures into the dark side of American immigration policy and racism. After a governor's executive order leads to the rounding up of children of undocumented immigrants, the affected youths are given the choice of being sent to juvenile detention or serving time at an elderly care facility. Opting for the latter, they soon realize they've walked into a horrifying situation far worse than anticipated. The facility's residents are far from helpless, and a grotesque transformation is underway. The film, featuring Jorge Lendeborg Jr. and Jenna Ortega among others, and directed by Diego Hallivis, serves as a satirical social commentary, leaning into themes of discrimination and the twisted pursuit of the American Dream.
26Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Alessandro NivolaSpin Me Round takes its audience on an off-kilter journey with Amber (Alison Brie), who manages an Italian restaurant franchise in Bakersfield, California. When she is invited to a company-paid educational immersion program in Italy, what begins as an exciting opportunity spirals into an unexpected whirlwind of bizarre experiences and romantic entanglements. The comedy, also starring Aubrey Plaza and Alessandro Nivola, presents themes of disillusionment, the search for adventure, and the complexity of human connections. The film presents a narrative rich with humor and unpredictability, directed by Jeff Baena.
27Jenny Slate, Isabella Rossellini, Rosa SalazarMarcel is your average shell, one that watches 60 Minutes and uses honey to walk up walls. In this quirky indie mockumentary from Jenny Slate and Dean Fleisher-Camp (from their online shorts series), the titular character tries to find his family without changing too much of his present. Funny and slightly sad this weird A24 flick is perfect for kids and the young at heart.
Marcel, a 1-inch-tall shell, lives with his grandmother, Connie, the only residents of their town after their neighbors' sudden, mysterious disappearance. When discovered by a guest amongst the clutter of his Airbnb, the short film he posts online brings Marcel millions of passionate fans and a new hope of reuniting with his long-lost family.
28Melissa Fumero, Rachel Bloom, Luka JonesHaving split everything in their lives after their break-up, a man and a woman must compete in a ridiculous custody battle for their prized drinking bar.
29Freida Pinto, Sope Dirisu, Oliver Jackson-CohenFans of Jane Austen will be most pleased with this period romantic comedy about revenge and love in regency London. Based on the book of the same name with direction from Emma Holly Jones,Freida Pinto plays a vicar's daughter who agrees to trick the most eligible bachelor in Britain after he rejects her best friend.
Mr. Malcolm's List is a Regency-era romantic dramedy that centers around the wealthy and eligible bachelor Mr. Malcolm (Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù), who has a list of qualities any potential wife must meet. When he spurns a hopeful suitor, Julia (Zawe Ashton), for failing to meet his criteria, she enlists her friend Selina (Freida Pinto), to enact her revenge. Posing as the perfect match, Selina aims to meet all the items on Mr. Malcolm's list, only to find herself falling for him. The film addresses themes of societal expectations, deception, and genuine affection.
30Rachel Sennott, Madeline Grey DeFreece, Shlomit AzoulayTwo best friends, played by Rachel Sennott and Madeline Grey DeFreece, attend the funeral of their Hebrew classmate who died by suicide. When one forces a kiss on the other, their friendship is pushed to a limit. Director Olivia Peace balances black comedic moments with heartbreaking reality in this coming-of-age dramedy.
Tahara is a coming-of-age drama that grapples with the complexities of teenage friendship, sexuality, and identity against the backdrop of a Jewish funeral. The story follows Carrie (Madeline Grey DeFreece) and Hannah (Rachel Sennott), two best friends from different backgrounds. Following the suicide of their Hebrew school classmate, the characters explore the boundaries of their relationship when a seemingly innocent kiss complicates their dynamic. The main themes include the navigation of queer identity, grief, and the turbulent path to self-discovery. Tahara puts a spotlight on the stories of young women, the pressures of societal expectations. The film also depicts Jewish funerals, with the title referring to the ritual of tahara, a Jewish burial ceremony.
