Ridham Vashishth
In an era where fast-paced thrillers and edge-of-the-seat dramas reign supreme, there’s something refreshingly timeless about a good comedy. Think about it: While special effects might age and drama tropes may evolve, a laugh remains timeless. Comedy movies, with their perfect blend of wit, charm, and heart, have a unique capability to heal, evoke hearty laughs, and sometimes even provide a reflective mirror to society.
As we navigate the streaming galaxy, Paramount+ emerges as a treasure trove of rib-tickling gems that tick all the boxes for an ideal comedic experience. From slapstick situations to clever satirical commentaries, this platform houses it all. And while humor is undeniably subjective, this list promises a laughter guarantee, serving up a range of comedic flavors for every palate. Dive in, and let the joyous world of comedy on Paramount+ carry you away!
8. The Naked Gun (2025)
A reboot of the cult classic ‘The Naked Gun’ franchise starring Leslie Nielsen, ‘The Naked Gun’ features Liam Neeson as Lieutenant Frank Drebin Jr., son of Frank Drebin Sr. (played by Nielsen). The movie shows how he solves two cases: a bank robbery led by a guy named Sig Gustafson (Kevin Durand) and the doubtful suicide of software engineer Simon Davenport. Simon’s sister Beth (Pamela Anderson) assists Frank in the case and also becomes his love interest. Wacky humor that has been well-curated to fit the ‘Naked Gun’ vibe and Neeson’s ironic, serious acting make the movie an authentic reboot/installment in the cult classic franchise. You can watch the Akiva Schaffer directorial here.
7. Zoolander (2001)
Directed by Ben Stiller, ‘Zoolander’ stars Stiller along with Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, and Christine Taylor. The movie tells the story of Derek Zoolander, who has won the title of VH1 Model of the Year three times. However, when Derek’s rival model, Hansel, breaks his streak, he is crushed. This is when he is approached by fashion guru Mugatu for the latter’s new fashion collection. However, unbeknownst to Derek, Mugatu intends to brainwash him and use him to assassinate the Prime Minister of Malaysia. Will the evil Mugatu’s plan be successful? To find out, you can watch ‘Zoolander’ here.
6. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Directed by Adam McKay, this satirical comedy-drama stars Will Ferrell and Christina Applegate as anchorman Ron Burgundy and upstart reporter Veronica Corningstone, respectively, in a 1970s male-dominated world of broadcast news. Burgundy has been a part of the fictional KVWN Channel 4 for a long time. He gets sexually involved with Corningstone and eventually gets jealous of her success. He ends up making a grave mistake on air that costs him his job. How he redeems himself both professionally and for Corningstone is what follows in this laughter riot of a movie. Joining Ferrell and Applegate, we have Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, and David Koechner. You can stream ‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’ here.
5. Scary Movie (2000)
‘Scary Movie’ is a cult classic horror comedy remembered for its offensive nature. The R-rated slasher parody makes fun of horror movies, including the ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ movies and the ‘Scream’ movies, while showing a group of friends being hunted by a Ghostface-masked killer. The warped nature of the way the movie treats its plot is testimony to humanity’s inclination towards the nonsensical, an aspect that has been addressed in world literature for centuries. With a cast that includes fan-favorites like Jon Abrahams, Anna Faris, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Carmen Electra, Shannon Elizabeth, and Regina Hall, ‘Scary Movie’ is a must-watch. If you are up for a no-holds-barred, wacky, and crude binge, ‘you can stream it right here.
4. The Longest Yard (2005)
‘The Longest Yard’ depicts events at the Allenville Federal Penitentiary in Texas that lead to a football match between the guards and the inmates. After disgraced pro football quarterback Paul Crewe (Adam Sandler) lands in prison, the warden tortures him into training the prison guards’ football team. After suggesting a match to boost the guards’ morale, Crewe is tasked with forming an inmates’ team. How he forms the team, aided by co-inmates ex-NFL coach Nate Scarborough (Burt Reynolds) and Caretaker (Chris Rock), and what the match’s outcome is are what we find out in this hilarious drama. A remake of ‘The Longest Yard’ (1974), in which Reynolds stars as Paul Crewe, this film features many famous personalities as the inmates, including Nelly, Terry Crews, Goldberg, Dalip Singh Rana AKA The Great Khali, Tracy Morgan, and Michael Irvin. Mindless comedy reigns supreme in the movie, which is perfect for viewing with friends. It can be streamed here.
3. The Dictator (2012)
Directed by Larry Charles, ‘The Dictator’ is a black comedy drama featuring Sacha Baron Cohen as antisemitic Admiral General Haffaz Aladeen, the dictator of a fictional republic of Wadiya. Hated for his dictatorial views, something that makes him a target for the American military, Aladeen arrives in the US to make himself clear at a UN council. However, he is also the target of his uncle Tamir Mafraad, who wants to kill him and become the new dictator of Wadiya. The movie is a brilliant commentary on dictatorship and addresses the various issues of world politics head-on, thereby becoming controversial for many viewers. Nevertheless, Cohen’s performance makes ‘The Dictator’ a beloved comedy classic. It also stars Ben Kingsley, Anna Faris, Jason Mantzoukas, and Megan Fox. You can watch it here.
2. Tropic Thunder (2008)
One of the best satirical comedies out there, ‘Tropic Thunder’ is directed by Ben Stiller. It follows a group of actors involved in making the greatest Vietnam War film. However, after their director dies after stepping on a landmine, the group finds itself in the territory of the Flaming Dragon gang. After one of them is captured by the gang, the rest of the actors decide to put their lives on the line and rescue him by putting their method-acting skills to the test. The film’s star-studded cast includes Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, Matthew McConaughey, Bill Hader, and Tom Cruise. A must-watch drama, ‘Tropic Thunder’ can be watched right here.
1. The Hangover (2009)
Directed by Todd Phillips, ‘The Hangover’ is no less than a psychedelic ride. It centers on four friends (Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Helms, and Justin Bartha) arriving in Las Vegas to celebrate a bachelor party. It all begins with cheer, but when the guys open their eyes the next morning, they find that the guy, who is about to be married, is missing, and they have no recollection whatsoever of what happened the previous night. With a massive hangover gripping them, the trio set off to find the guy in Sin City by retracing their steps before the nuptials take place. From a stolen tiger to an unknown baby to a Chinese gangster, the guys encounter all sorts of situations and people, realizing just how “happening” their night has been. The question is: Will they find their missing buddy while dealing with the continuously unfolding conundrum? A must-watch R-rated comedy drama, ‘The Hangover’ is a necessary addition to any stoner movie list. You can watch it here.
Read More: Best Comedy Movies on Peacock
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