The 70 Best Comedies Of 2012
- 1Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson
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.
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- 2Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane
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.
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- 3Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin
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.
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- 4Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Rebel Wilson
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.
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- 5John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer
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.
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- 6Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis
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.
- 7Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein
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.
- 8Sacha Baron Cohen, Anna Faris, Ben Kingsley
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.
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- 9Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
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.
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- 10Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez
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.
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- 11Seann William Scott, Jay Baruchel, Alison Pill
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.
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- 12Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill
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.
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- 13Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper, Jonathan Daniel Brown
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.
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- 14Bruce Willis, Ed Norton, Bill Murray
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.
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- 15Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, John Lithgow
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.
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- 16Fabrice Luchini, Ernst Umhauer, Kristin Scott Thomas
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.
- 17Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Tom Courtenay
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.
- 18Danielle Panabaker, Matt Bush, David Koechner
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.
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- 19Salma Hayek, David Tennant, Hugh Grant
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.
- 20Charlie Chaplin, Udo Kier, Julia Dietze
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.
- 21Alice Lowe, Steve Oram, Eileen Davies
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.
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- 22Julie Delpy, Chris Rock, Albert Delpy
Julie Delpy's 2 Days in New York is a witty, engaging, and delightfully awkward romantic comedy that serves as a sequel to her earlier film 2 Days in Paris. Starring Delpy and Chris Rock, the film explores the hilarity that ensues when a French woman's eccentric family descends upon her New York City apartment for a visit. With its sharp dialogue, captivating performances, and relatable humor, 2 Days in New York solidifies its position among the standout comedy films of 2012.
- 23Chris O'Dowd, Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy
Based on a true story, The Sapphires is an Australian musical comedy-drama that centers on the lives of four talented Aboriginal women who form a singing group in the 1960s and journey to perform for American troops in Vietnam. Directed by Wayne Blair, the film has a powerhouse ensemble cast, including Chris O'Dowd, Deborah Mailman, and Jessica Mauboy. With its blend of infectious musical performances, enduring humor, and heartfelt storytelling, The Sapphires shines as one of 2012's best comedy films.
- 24Colin Farrell, Christopher Walken, Sam Rockwell
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.
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- 25Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy
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.
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- 26Kristen Bell, Aubrey Plaza, Jeff Garlin
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.
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- 27Eric Wareheim, James Murphy, Tim Heidecker
The Comedy is a thought-provoking and often uncomfortable exploration of a privileged but aimless man's descent into nihilism and cruelty. Starring comedian Tim Heidecker in a dramatic departure from his usual fare, this dark and challenging film pushes the boundaries of the comedy genre while eluding easy categorization. Directed by Rick Alverson, The Comedy offers a unique and unsettling viewing experience that sets it apart from other 2012 releases.
- 28Liv Tyler, Susan Sarandon, James Marsden
Robot & Frank is a poignant and humorous exploration of the unlikely friendship between an aging jewel thief and his robot caregiver. Set in the near future, this film effectively blends comedy, drama, and science fiction elements under the direction of Jake Schreier. With memorable performances from Frank Langella, Susan Sarandon, and an emotive robot voiced by Peter Sarsgaard, Robot & Frank carves out a unique position within the 2012 comedy landscape.
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- 29Josh Radnor, Elizabeth Olsen, Richard JenkinsA 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.
- 30Jean Reno, Santiago Segura, Julien Boisselier
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.
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