The Best British Comedy Movies
- 1Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam
Satirizing organized religion and messiah myths, this Monty Python film follows the life of an ordinary man, born on the same day as Jesus Christ, whose life is repeatedly mistaken for that of the biblical figure. Despite its controversial content, it's widely recognized as a classic for its smart humor, biting satire, and irreverent approach to sacred themes. The film has become a fixture of British cultural identity, demonstrating the power of comedy to challenge established institutions.
More Life of Brian
- #524 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #55 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #30 of 98 onThe Best Movies Based On TV Shows
- 2Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam
A parody of Arthurian legend, this film features the comedic troupe Monty Python in their quest for the titular artifact. Packed with quotable lines and memorable skits, it's an absurd take on the chivalric tales of old, proving that even serious subjects can be ripe material for laughter. The film's enduring popularity has made it a touchstone of British humor around the world.
- 3Simon Pegg, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis
This film cleverly combines the zombie apocalypse with a slice-of-life story of a regular guy, Shaun, trying to win back his ex-girlfriend and reconcile with his stepfather. It balances genuine scares with witty humor, serving up equal parts gore and laughs in a uniquely British fashion. Its success heralded a new era of genre-blending comedies and launched the careers of director Edgar Wright and actor Simon Pegg.
More Shaun of the Dead- #170 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- #25 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 4Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent
A spoof of the buddy cop genre, this high-octane film pairs a by-the-book police officer with a bumbling partner in a sleepy village riddled with crime. The jokes come in rapid-fire bursts as the duo uncovers a series of grisly murders that grow increasingly absurd. A hit with critics and audiences alike, it stands as one of the smartest British parodies in recent history.
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- #512 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #56 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 5John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline
This heist caper centers around a gang of thieves who double-cross each other in pursuit of diamonds hidden in a fish tank. Anchored by strong performances from an ensemble cast — including Monty Python veterans John Cleese and Michael Palin — the film's blend of slapstick and sophistication earned it widespread acclaim. Its inventive humor has secured its place as a standout of British film.
More A Fish Called Wanda- #126 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #590 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #78 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 6Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran
Another Guy Ritchie film, this tale of a card game gone awry is a high-stakes adventure populated by small-time criminals and big-time crooks. Known for its intricate plot, memorable one-liners, and distinctive visual flair, it remains a favorite among fans of British crime cinema. It also marked the directorial debut of Ritchie, who went on to become one of the country's most successful filmmakers.
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- 7Benicio Del Toro, Dennis Farina, Brad Pitt
Guy Ritchie's fast-paced crime comedy weaves together multiple storylines involving a diamond heist, unscrupulous boxing promoters, and a colorful assortment of criminal characters. With its snappy dialogue, eccentric performances, and kinetic style, it quickly gained a cult following and influenced a new generation of filmmakers. The film stands as a prime example of how side-splitting laughs can be found amid violence and chaos.
More Snatch- #608 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #62 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #426 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 8Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam
This episodic film finds the Monty Python troupe tackling life's biggest questions through a series of absurdist sketches. From birth to death, the film skewers conventional wisdom and societal norms with their trademark wit and irreverence. Equal parts hilarious and thought-provoking, it demonstrates the troupe's ability to make audiences laugh while examining the human condition.
- #138 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #457 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #76 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 9Peter Sallis, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter
This stop-motion animated adventure follows the titular duo as they investigate a series of garden sabotage incidents in their small town. Filled with clever wordplay, visual gags, and plenty of slapstick humor, the film is a delightful romp that transcends age demographics. Its creative animation and charming wit have made it a beloved fixture of British entertainment.
- #116 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #336 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #30 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- 10Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes
This dark comedy follows two hitmen who lay low in the Belgian city of Bruges after a botched job, grappling with guilt, morality, and the suffocating boredom of their surroundings. The film's rich dialogue, unexpected twists, and strong performances — particularly from Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson — ensure that the laughs hit as hard as the dramatic punches. Its distinctive blend of genres and tones has made it an enduring cult favorite.
More In Bruges- #216 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
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- #10 of 13 onThe Best 'Christmas Adjacent' Movies That Aren't About Christmas
- 11Robert Carlyle, Tom Wilkinson, Mark Addy
In this heartwarming story, a group of unemployed steelworkers turns to exotic dancing to make ends meet, tackling their insecurities and societal expectations in the process. Both uproarious and poignant, it touches upon themes of masculinity, self-worth, and friendship in a way that resonates with viewers from all walks of life. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to infuse humor into difficult circumstances.
More The Full Monty- #644 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #401 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #133 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- 12Riz Ahmed, Arsher Ali, Nigel Lindsay
This pitch-black comedy focuses on a group of bumbling terrorists who aim to execute a devastating attack despite their own incompetence. Its daring subject matter and unapologetic humor push boundaries at every turn, yet it also manages to make viewers empathize with its misguided characters. The film represents a fearless exploration of a controversial topic, handled by a fearless filmmaker.
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- 13
Paddington
Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie WaltersThis live-action adaptation of the beloved children's book series follows the titular bear's adventures in London as he searches for a home while evading a nefarious taxidermist. Combining heartwarming themes of family and acceptance with clever, fish-out-of-water humor, this film captured the essence of the character in a way that appealed to audiences of all ages. Its success paved the way for a well-received sequel, solidifying the franchise's place in British pop culture.
More Paddington - 14Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Paddy Considine
The final installment of Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg's Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, this apocalyptic comedy follows a group of friends who attempt to complete a fabled pub crawl, only to discover that their hometown has been infiltrated by alien robots. The film's clever social commentary, rapid-fire wit, and impressive action sequences make it a fitting conclusion to the much-lauded series. The trilogy's impact on contemporary British humor is both significant and enduring.
More The World's End- #107 of 166 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #165 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #534 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- 15Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, Kristin Scott Thomas
Chronicling the romantic exploits of a group of friends through various matrimonial celebrations and one somber event, this film strikes a balance between laugh-out-loud humor and touching emotional moments. Its sharp script, memorable characters, and feel-good sensibility helped propel it to box office success and critical praise. This film's influence on the romantic comedy landscape cannot be overstated, as it established a template for countless films to follow.
- #156 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #50 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #42 of 50 onThe Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the '90s
- 16Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller
This gritty, hallucinatory tale of heroin addiction in Edinburgh is punctuated by moments of biting humor, giving it a unique place in the annals of British cinema. Danny Boyle's cutting-edge direction and a career-making performance from Ewan McGregor catapulted the film to international fame, making it a cultural touchstone of the '90s. Its blend of social commentary, thrilling visuals, and irreverent comedy ensures its continued relevance.
More Trainspotting- #630 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #189 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #507 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 17Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant, Hugh Bonneville
This charming romance pairs a humble bookstore owner with a glamorous movie star, exploring the pitfalls of fame and the power of love to overcome obstacles. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and heartfelt sentiment, this film became a box office smash and an enduring favorite among rom-com enthusiasts. The chemistry between stars Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts remains as enchanting as ever, ensuring the film's lasting appeal.
More Notting Hill- #576 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #190 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #34 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- 18John Cleese, Sean Connery, Shelley Duvall
In this fantastical adventure, a young boy joins a group of time-traveling dwarfs as they embark on a quest to steal treasures from various historical figures. Directed by Monty Python's Terry Gilliam and featuring a slew of celebrity cameos, the film offers a unique blend of swashbuckling action, visual extravagance, and offbeat humor. Its mix of whimsy and wit has made it a cult classic beloved by multiple generations.
More Time Bandits- #211 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #682 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #123 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 19Rowan Atkinson, Peter MacNicol, Pamela Reed
Rowan Atkinson's iconic character Mr. Bean makes his big-screen debut in this slapstick comedy that sees him causing havoc at a prestigious American art gallery. Capitalizing on the character's signature blend of physical comedy, social awkwardness, and naivety, the film expands the reach of one of Britain's most recognizable comedic exports. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the strength of Atkinson's creation and the universal appeal of its humor.
More Bean- #164 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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- 20Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Seth Rogen
This road trip comedy stars Simon Pegg and Nick Frost as a pair of comic book-loving Brits who encounter a wisecracking alien while exploring the American Southwest. Filled with pop culture references, deadpan humor, and an endearing performance by Seth Rogen as the titular extraterrestrial, the film offers a fresh take on the sci-fi genre. Its unique blend of buddy comedy tropes and irreverent satire appeals to British sensibilities while resonating with a wider audience.
More Paul- #51 of 178 onThe Best Alien Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #529 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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- 21Richard E. Grant, Paul McGann, Richard Griffiths
This cult classic offers a bleak yet hilarious account of two unemployed actors' nightmarish getaway in the English countryside. Featuring a standout performance by Richard E. Grant as the chronically inebriated Withnail, the film skillfully walks a tightrope between despair and absurdity. Its dark humor, memorable dialogue, and biting satirical edge have made it a cult favorite among cinephiles.
More Withnail and I- #388 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
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- #613 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- 22Hugh Grant, Rachel Weisz, Toni Collette
Adapted from Nick Hornby's novel, this dramedy follows the unique bond that forms between a perpetual bachelor, played by Hugh Grant, and a socially awkward 12-year-old boy after they cross paths at a support group meeting. Filled with wit, heart, and genuine emotion, the film explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and personal growth. Its strong character development and relatable humor make it a standout entry in the pantheon of British films.
More About a Boy- #39 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
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- 23Alec Guinness, Stanley Holloway, Sid James
Another classic Ealing Studios comedy, this film stars Alec Guinness as a meek bank clerk who masterminds a daring gold heist with the help of an eccentric crew. Full of unexpected twists, memorable characters, and ingenious schemes, the movie demonstrates the unique wit and inventiveness that characterize British humor. The film's enduring impact can be traced to its sophisticated blend of comedy, suspense, and social commentary.
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- 24Colin Firth, Michael Caine, Taron Egerton
This stylish action-comedy follows a young delinquent who is recruited by a secret spy agency to save the world from a deadly threat. Juggling thrilling action sequences, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a satirical look at the spy genre, the film offers a distinctly British take on the blockbuster formula. Its combination of adrenaline-fueled spectacle and biting wit have made it a fan favorite and spawned a successful franchise.
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- 25Laura Haddock, Theo James, Belinda Stewart-Wilson
This big-screen adaptation of the popular TV series finds its four socially inept protagonists embarking on a wild holiday in the Mediterranean. Showcasing the cringeworthy antics and hilarious misadventures the show is known for, the film delivers laugh-out-loud moments alongside heartfelt insights into the challenges of growing up. Its blend of raunchy humor and tender moments ensures its status as a modern classic of British cinema.
More The Inbetweeners Movie- #84 of 89 onThe Most Rewatchable Comedy Movies
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- 26Matthew McFadyen, Keeley Hawes, Andy Nyman
This black comedy revolves around a disastrous funeral where family secrets are revealed, misplaced hallucinogens wreak havoc, and a mysterious stranger blackmails the grieving relatives. With its labyrinthine plot, absurd situations, and slapstick humor, the film delivers laughs despite the grim setting. The chaotic proceedings serve as a reminder that even somber occasions can give way to gut-busting hilarity.
More Death at a Funeral- #332 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #455 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
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- 27Rowan Atkinson, Emma de Caunes, Willem DafoeWhen London's wet weather becomes too much to bear, pratfall-prone Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson) heads to the French Riviera for some fun in the sun. As usual, his plans do not go smoothly, and he is mistaken for both a kidnapper and an award-winning filmmaker when he arrives with a Romanian director's son and an aspiring actress in tow.More Mr. Bean's Holiday
- #417 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #314 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #154 of 188 onThe 180+ Top Kids Movies
- 28Alec Guinness, Katie Johnson, Cecil Parker
This classic Ealing Studios comedy finds a gang of inept criminals posing as musicians to carry out a heist, only to be foiled by their sweet-natured elderly landlady. Its inventive farce and memorable performances, particularly from Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers, have made it a beloved favorite among fans of British cinema. The combination of slapstick humor and dark irony ensures its place in the pantheon of great British comedies.
More The Ladykillers- #319 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #560 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- #1 of 16 onThe Best Ealing Comedy Movies
- 29Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
This ensemble romantic comedy weaves together a tapestry of interconnected love stories set during the holiday season, exploring the many facets of love and relationships. Boasting an all-star cast, witty dialogue, and memorable vignettes, the film has become a modern classic beloved by audiences worldwide. Its mix of humor, sentiment, and holiday cheer makes it an enduring favorite in the British canon.
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- 30
Paddington 2
Ben Whishaw, Hugh Grant, Sally HawkinsIn this delightful sequel, Paddington takes on odd jobs to buy the perfect birthday gift for his aunt, only to become entangled in a mystery involving a stolen pop-up book and a menacing actor. Despite high expectations, the follow-up managed to surpass its predecessor in terms of critical and commercial success, thanks to its winning combination of warmth, slapstick humor, and intricate set pieces. The film further cements the loveable bear's status as a cherished British icon.
More Paddington 2- #84 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
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