The Most Hilarious Small Town Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 1Kirsten Dunst, Ellen Barkin, Allison Janney
Set amidst the quirky and eccentric inhabitants of a small Minnesota town, Drop Dead Gorgeous is a darkly comedic exploration of the trials and tribulations faced by ambitious beauty pageant contestants. With razor-sharp wit and satirical undertones, this 1999 mockumentary expertly skewers the obsessive world of beauty competitions while also serving as a humorous ode to small-town life. Its ensemble cast boasts memorable performances from Kirsten Dunst and Ellen Barkin, providing ample laughter and entertainment throughout. Imbued with genuine warmth and affection for its outlandish characters, Drop Dead Gorgeous remains a much-loved comedy gem.
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- 2Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
The Sandlot is a nostalgic ode to the charm and innocence of childhood set in a small suburban town, immersing viewers in the adventures of a ragtag group of young baseball enthusiasts during one sweltering summer. Released in 1993, the film's heartening portrayal of friendship and its irresistibly endearing characters, such as lovable underdog Scotty Smalls, ensure that it continues to resonate with audiences both old and young alike. Hilarious antics, lively dialogue, and a quintessential 1960s ambience make The Sandlot a cherished and enduring coming-of-age tale.
- 3Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Crispin Glover
Offering a rollicking adventure through time and small-town America, Back to the Future is a beloved classic that continues to captivate new generations of viewers. Marty McFly, portrayed by the charming Michael J. Fox, finds himself transported back to 1955, where he encounters his teenaged parents and alters the course of their lives. The film's enchanting blend of science fiction and comedy is elevated by the memorable chemistry between Fox and Christopher Lloyd as the eccentric inventor, Doc Brown. Set in the idyllic Hill Valley town square, the movie seamlessly melds nostalgia with thrilling escapades, ensuring its lasting status as a cinematic treasure.
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- 4Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine
A powerful blend of poignant drama and laugh-out-loud humor, Steel Magnolias is a timeless cinematic tribute to the resilience of Southern women. The film's beautifully realized small-town Louisiana setting serves as a vibrant backdrop for the intertwining stories of its six central characters, portrayed by an all-star ensemble cast including Sally Field, Julia Roberts, and Dolly Parton. At once funny and heart-wrenching, Steel Magnolias showcases the strength of female friendship amid life's challenges in an unforgettable and deeply moving narrative, making it a truly enduring classic.
More Steel Magnolias- #252 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 5Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott
Expertly blending offbeat humor with a touch of philosophical insight, Groundhog Day remains a standout example of small-town comedy at its finest. Following the life of grumpy weatherman Phil Connors, played to perfection by Bill Murray, the film delves into the concept of self-improvement through the lens of a time loop. Its delightful exploration of the human condition and sharp wit make Groundhog Day a timeless classic that always feels fresh and engaging, no matter how many times it's revisited.
More Groundhog Day- #72 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- #31 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- 6Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy
Fargo masterfully intertwines dark humor with gripping crime drama, making this 1996 Coen brothers offering an indisputable classic. The film plunges viewers into the snow-covered landscapes of small-town Minnesota, where a seemingly ordinary car salesman, played with pitch-perfect desperation by William H. Macy, hatches a plan to have his wife kidnapped. With Frances McDormand's unforgettable portrayal of pregnant police chief Marge Gunderson, Fargo expertly balances its chilling plot with moments of wry comedy and biting satire.
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- 7Anna Chlumsky, Macaulay Culkin, Dan Aykroyd
My Girl tugs at heartstrings with its tender depiction of childhood love, loss, and friendship. Set in a quaint Pennsylvania town, this 1991 coming-of-age dramedy follows the emotional journey of 11-year-old Vada, played by a young Anna Chlumsky. Dan Aykroyd and Jamie Lee Curtis also grace the screen with their heartfelt performances, adding depth and nuance to the overall narrative. Memorable scenes and an evocative soundtrack transport viewers back to a simpler time, making My Girl a touching ode to the bittersweet nature of growing up.
More My Girl- #58 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
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- 8Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Noah Emmerich
Intriguing and thought-provoking, The Truman Show takes a satirical look at the nature of reality through the lens of an unsuspecting man whose life is broadcast 24/7 to a global television audience. Set in the picture-perfect town of Seahaven, this 1998 film showcases Jim Carrey's acting range in his portrayal of the eponymous Truman Burbank, who gradually unravels the shocking truth about his existence. This clever commentary on modern society and our obsession with voyeurism has only become more relevant in today's age of social media and reality television.
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- #385 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 9Tobey Maguire, Jeff Daniels, Joan Allen
Innovative and visually stunning, Pleasantville explores the allure of nostalgia and the complexities of change through the eyes of two modern teens who find themselves transported into the black-and-white world of a 1950s sitcom. Tobey Maguire and Reese Witherspoon deliver excellent performances as siblings David and Jennifer, who bring new ideas and experiences to the residents of the eponymous town. The film's striking use of color, combined with its timely social themes, makes Pleasantville a truly enchanting viewing experience.
More Pleasantville- #368 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 10Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey
Sweet Home Alabama is a delightful romantic comedy that transports viewers to the heart of America's deep south. Reese Witherspoon shines as Melanie Carmichael, a successful New York fashion designer who must confront her small-town past when she returns to Alabama to finalize her divorce. Boasting an engaging cast, including Josh Lucas and Patrick Dempsey, the film effortlessly navigates the complexities of love, identity, and the pull of hometown roots. Wrapped in southern charm, this heartwarming tale never fails to entertain.
More Sweet Home Alabama- #266 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 11Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon
A perennial holiday favorite, A Christmas Story is a lovingly crafted, nostalgia-filled ode to the joys and trials of childhood during the festive season. Set in a small Indiana town in the 1940s, this cherished classic follows young Ralphie Parker on his quest to secure the perfect Christmas gift: a Red Ryder BB gun. Bursting with heartwarming moments, quirky characters, and hilarious mishaps, A Christmas Story is a reminder of the simpler times of yesteryear—and the universal desires and anxieties that come with growing up.
More A Christmas Story - 12Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton
A perfect blend of comedy and horror, Gremlins is unquestionably a quintessential small-town movie that still captivates viewers today. The film's premise revolves around a lovable creature known as Gizmo, who inadvertently spawns a horde of malicious gremlins hell-bent on wreaking havoc across the peaceful town of Kingston Falls. Directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg, Gremlins skillfully intertwines humor, terror, and a touch of nostalgia to craft an enduring cult classic that delights audiences of all ages.
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- 13Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent
From the creators of Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz is an uproarious action-comedy that expertly satirizes the conventions of the buddy cop genre while paying homage to its inspirations. The film follows London police officer Nicholas Angel, played by Simon Pegg, as he is transferred to a seemingly idyllic rural village, only to uncover a sinister secret lurking beneath the surface. Co-starring Nick Frost as Angel's bumbling partner and boasting a delightfully eccentric ensemble cast, Hot Fuzz succeeds in delivering both thrilling action and sharp-witted humor, making it a must-see for fans of British cinema.
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- #505 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 14Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Paul Le Mat
A seminal coming-of-age tale set in the early 1960s, American Graffiti encapsulates the restlessness and excitement of youth on the cusp of adulthood. Directed by George Lucas and featuring an ensemble cast that includes Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, and Harrison Ford, this nostalgic ode to small-town life follows a group of friends as they cruise the streets, flirt, and ponder their futures during one memorable night. With its iconic soundtrack and affectionate portrayal of a bygone era, American Graffiti remains an essential and influential entry in the annals of cinema.
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- 15Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell
Napoleon Dynamite artfully captures the awkward charm of teenage life in small-town America, thanks to its endearing ensemble of quirky characters and offbeat humor. The eponymous protagonist, played with understated brilliance by Jon Heder, navigates high school, family dysfunction, and newfound friendship with a sense of wide-eyed innocence that resonates with viewers. Set in rural Idaho, this cult classic deftly explores themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and redemption through a unique comedic lens, ensuring its status as an unforgettable film for generations to come.
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- #27 of 112 onThe 100+ Best Movies About High School
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- 16John Cusack, Minnie Driver, Dan Aykroyd
Grosse Pointe Blank is a fresh and inventive take on the hitman comedy genre, laden with sharp wit and 80s nostalgia. John Cusack stars as Martin Blank, an assassin begrudgingly returning to his suburban Detroit hometown for his high school reunion. The film deftly balances humor and violence as Martin reconnects with his past, encountering old friends, a lost love interest, and dangerous rivals along the way. Anchored by engaging performances from Cusack, Minnie Driver, and Dan Aykroyd, Grosse Pointe Blank is an irresistibly offbeat gem of cinematic entertainment.
More Grosse Pointe Blank- #559 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 17Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
Juno is a heartwarming coming-of-age comedy that strikes the perfect balance between humor and poignancy, providing an insightful look at teenage pregnancy and the complexities of growing up. Ellen Page delivers a standout performance as the titular Juno, a plucky, pregnant high schooler navigating love, family, and the impending responsibilities of motherhood. Set against the backdrop of a cozy Minnesota town, the film charms with its witty dialogue, memorable soundtrack, and an earnest portrayal of the challenges faced by young people on the precipice of adulthood.
More Juno- #540 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- #91 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- 18Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen
The Proposal is a delightful romantic comedy that triumphantly pairs Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds as unlikely love interests in a high-stakes charade. Set in the breathtaking scenery of coastal Alaska, the film follows Bullock's Margaret as she coerces her assistant, played by Reynolds, into a fake marriage to avoid deportation. The small-town setting provides a charming and scenic backdrop for the pair's evolving relationship, which is further enhanced by a lively cast of eccentric locals. With its winning combination of comedic hijinks, heartfelt moments, and undeniable chemistry between its stars, The Proposal remains a beloved rom-com for all ages.
More The Proposal- #6 of 134 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
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- 19Chevy Chase, Madolyn Smith Osborne, Kevin O'Morrison
Funny Farm is a whimsical, fish-out-of-water tale that takes audiences on a rollicking journey through the lighter side of rural living. Starring Chevy Chase as Andy Farmer, a city slicker who moves his unsuspecting wife to a quaint Vermont town in search of a simpler life, the movie skillfully weaves together moments of slapstick humor with tender insights into married life and the compromises we make for love. Surrounded by a colorful cast of eccentric townsfolk, Andy's misadventures in the countryside offer endless laughs and heartwarming lessons in this timeless ode to small-town America.
More Funny Farm- #139 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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- 20Julia Roberts, Annabeth Gish, Lili Taylor
Nestled in the picturesque seaside setting of Mystic, Connecticut, this slice-of-life romantic comedy serves up a heartwarming narrative centered around the lives and loves of three young waitresses employed at the titular pizzeria. Starring Julia Roberts in an early breakout role, Mystic Pizza is a lighthearted, feel-good film that showcases the triumphs, heartbreaks, and camaraderie of the characters, expertly capturing the spirit of small-town life. With its memorable performances and relatable, genuine storylines, Mystic Pizza remains an appetizing and satisfying cinematic treat.
More Mystic Pizza- #231 of 279 on'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime
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- 21Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt
Vibrant and visually stunning, Pixar's Cars explores the value of friendship and the importance of embracing change against the charming backdrop of a small-town community. Following the story of anthropomorphic race car Lightning McQueen as he finds himself stranded in the forgotten town of Radiator Springs, the film tugs at the heartstrings while delivering plenty of laughs. Featuring the voice talents of Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, and Bonnie Hunt, Cars is a delightful family-friendly romp that celebrates the joy and spirit of small-town living.
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- 22Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, Fred Willard
Waiting for Guffman is a mockumentary-style comedy that shines a spotlight on the hilarious and often cringe-worthy world of community theater. Directed by and starring Christopher Guest, the film revolves around an eccentric group of aspiring actors in the fictional town of Blaine, Missouri, who stage a musical production in the hopes of attracting the attention of a famous Broadway producer. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, including Eugene Levy, Parker Posey, and Fred Willard, Waiting for Guffman delights with its sharp wit and affectionate portrayal of its quirky, small-town characters.
More Waiting for Guffman- #408 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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- 23Steve Martin, Daryl Hannah, Rick Rossovich
Roxanne is a modern-day reimagining of the classic 19th-century play Cyrano de Bergerac, artfully blending romance, comedy, and wit against the picturesque setting of a small mountain town. Steve Martin stars as C.D. Bales, a lovable fire chief with an unusually large nose, who falls for the beautiful Roxanne, played by Daryl Hannah. The film's delightful exploration of love, self-acceptance, and the power of wit strikes a resonant chord with audiences, ensuring that Roxanne remains a beloved entry in the romantic comedy canon.
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- 24Matthew Broderick, Reese Witherspoon, Chris Klein
Election is a biting, satirical exploration of a seemingly innocent high school election, revealing the dark underbelly of suburban life and ambition. Centered on the intense rivalry between overachieving student Tracy Flick, played by Reese Witherspoon in an unforgettable performance, and her beleaguered civics teacher, portrayed by a pitch-perfect Matthew Broderick, the film is an engrossing character study that exposes uncomfortable truths about human nature. Unflinching, hilarious, and deeply insightful, Election is an essential addition to any comprehensive list of small-town comedies.
More Election- #241 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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- 25Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Joan Cusack
Reuniting the screen duo of Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, Runaway Bride is a charming romantic comedy that centers on the whimsical exploits of a woman notorious for leaving her fiancés at the altar. Set in the quaint town of Hale, Maryland, the film sees Gere's character Ike, a jaded New York City journalist, attempting to uncover the truth behind Roberts' Maggie's string of failed relationships. The resulting hijinks, coupled with the undeniable chemistry between the two leads, make Runaway Bride an enjoyable and heartwarming cinematic experience.
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- 26John David Washington, Adam Driver, Laura Harrier
BlacKkKlansman is a powerful and timely exploration of race relations in America, told through the remarkable true story of Ron Stallworth, a black police officer who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan. Set in the 1970s, the film is at once a gripping buddy cop tale and a searing commentary on the injustices faced by African Americans, deftly balancing drama, comedy, and social critique. Directed by Spike Lee and featuring standout performances by John David Washington and Adam Driver, BlacKkKlansman offers an unflinching look at the sinister undercurrents that can lurk beneath the surface of even the most seemingly innocuous small towns.
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- 27Steve Martin, Rick Moranis, Joan Cusack
Helmed by Herbert Ross and penned by Nora Ephron, My Blue Heaven stars Steve Martin as a former mobster turned government informant, placed in the Witness Protection Program in a sleepy suburban town. As he struggles to adjust to his new surroundings, his idiosyncratic antics provide a wealth of comedic moments. Co-starring Rick Moranis as his uptight and bureaucratic FBI handler, My Blue Heaven is a lighthearted romp that effectively taps into the comedic potential of its small-town setting and fish-out-of-water premise.
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- 28Gene Hackman, Ray Romano, Marcia Gay Harden
Welcome to Mooseport is a charming political comedy that explores the perils and pitfalls of small-town life, pitting a local plumber against a former U.S. president in the race for mayor. Starring Gene Hackman and Ray Romano, the film expertly mines the comedic potential of its premise, juxtaposing the cutthroat world of politics with the tight-knit community of Mooseport. With an endearing ensemble cast and a playful take on the power dynamics at play in local government, Welcome to Mooseport is a lighthearted, enjoyable cinematic experience.
- 29Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Noah Emmerich
Beautiful Girls is a touching and insightful drama that delves into the lives and loves of a group of lifelong friends as they reunite in their small Massachusetts hometown. Featuring standout performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, and Natalie Portman, the film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the passage of time with sensitivity and wit. Ted Demme's nuanced direction, coupled with a pitch-perfect script by Scott Rosenberg, ensures that Beautiful Girls remains a resonant and poignant exploration of small-town life and the relationships that define us.
- 30Jack Black, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey
Based on a true story, Bernie is a darkly comedic tale of a beloved mortician whose murder of a wealthy widow shocks and baffles the townspeople of Carthage, Texas. Jack Black delivers a captivating performance as the eponymous Bernie Tiede, deftly balancing humor and pathos in his portrayal of a man driven to extremes. Directed by Richard Linklater and featuring standout turns from Shirley MacLaine and Matthew McConaughey, Bernie is a deeply engaging character study that offers a unique and compelling look at the complexities and contradictions of small-town America.
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