Top 10 Laugh-Out-Loud Comedies of the 80s

Comedies of the 80s

The 1980s was a golden age for comedy, with a slew of iconic films that continue to entertain and delight audiences to this day. From the raucous antics of “Animal House” to the witty banter of “When Harry Met Sally…,” the comedies of the 80s had something for everyone. Whether you prefer slapstick humor, romantic comedies, or anything in between, you’re sure to find something to your liking in this decade’s rich tapestry of cinematic comedy. These films not only brought laughter to moviegoers, but also captured the zeitgeist of the era, reflecting the social and cultural changes that were taking place at the time.

One of the defining characteristics of 80s comedies is their over-the-top, often outrageous humor. Films like “Caddyshack,” “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” and “Stripes” reveled in absurdity, with slapstick gags, pratfalls, and zany characters. These films were not afraid to push the boundaries of good taste, and their willingness to embrace the ridiculous is part of what makes them so memorable. However, beneath the surface of the silliness, many of these comedies also had a surprisingly sharp wit, satirizing everything from consumerism to the Vietnam War.

In addition to their over-the-top humor, 80s comedies were also known for their memorable characters. From the lovable losers of “The Breakfast Club” to the mismatched duo of “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” these films created characters that have become part of popular culture. These characters are often flawed and relatable, and their struggles and triumphs resonate with audiences of all ages. The 80s also saw the rise of the teen comedy, with films like “Sixteen Candles,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” and “The Breakfast Club” capturing the angst and awkwardness of adolescence. These films spoke to the experiences of a generation, and their influence can still be seen in teen comedies today.

The Brat Pack’s reign: Classic coming-of-age comedies

During the 1980s, a group of young actors known as the Brat Pack emerged, starring in a slew of iconic coming-of-age comedies that defined the decade. These films delved into the complexities and angst of adolescence, capturing the hearts of teenagers and young adults alike.

Led by stars like Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, and Judd Nelson, the Brat Pack films explored themes of friendship, love, rebellion, and identity. With their relatable characters and witty dialogue, these comedies became cultural touchstones, shaping the way we view teenage life.

Notable Brat Pack comedies:

Film Title	Year
The Breakfast Club	1985
Sixteen Candles	1984
St. Elmo’s Fire	1985
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off	1986
Pretty in Pink	1986

The Rise of Slapstick: Farcical and Physical Humor Takes Center Stage

The 1980s witnessed a resurgence of slapstick comedy, characterized by over-the-top physical humor and farcical situations. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including the influence of classic Three Stooges shorts and the rise of physical comedians such as Jim Carrey and Eddie Murphy.

Table of Notable Slapstick Comedies from the 1980s

Title	Release Year
The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!	1988
Spaceballs	1987
Top Secret!	1984
Clue	1985
Airplane!	1980

These films employed a wide range of slapstick techniques, including pratfalls, pie fights, and elaborate stunts. The humor was often over the top and absurd, relying on exaggerated characters and situations for its laughs. Slapstick comedy became a staple of the decade, providing audiences with a much-needed escape from the serious social and political issues of the time.

The Golden Age of John Hughes: A Teen Comedy Mastermind Emerges

John Hughes’ rise to prominence in the 1980s marked an unprecedented era in teen comedies. With a keen understanding of youth culture and an ability to craft relatable and hilarious narratives, Hughes became a cinematic icon for a generation.

Sixteen Candles (1984)

Hughes’ breakout film, “Sixteen Candles,” introduced the world to his signature brand of humor. The film follows Samantha Baker, a klutzy and insecure teenager, on the day of her sixteenth birthday, which is overshadowed by her sister’s wedding.

The Breakfast Club (1985)

Considered one of the greatest teen films ever made, “The Breakfast Club” tells the story of five high school students from different social groups who are forced to spend a Saturday in detention together. Through their interactions and shared experiences, they ultimately learn to appreciate each other’s differences.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Building on the success of his previous films, Hughes created a tour de force in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” This hilarious and heartwarming comedy follows Ferris Bueller, a charismatic slacker, as he skips school for a day of adventure with his girlfriend and best friend. The film features unforgettable characters, quotable dialogue, and a memorable soundtrack.

Film	Year
Sixteen Candles	1984
The Breakfast Club	1985
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off	1986

The Zucker Brothers’ anarchic humor: Breaking conventions and embracing chaos

The Zucker Brothers, composed of Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and David Zucker, revolutionized comedy in the 1980s with their anarchic and unconventional approach. Their films challenged cinematic norms, embraced chaos, and left audiences in stitches.

Parodying Film Genres

The Zucker Brothers were masters of parody, skillfully skewering popular film genres such as disaster movies (Airplane!), police procedurals (Police Squad!), and science fiction (Top Secret!). Their parodies not only elicited laughter but also highlighted the absurdities and clichés within these genres.

Breaking the Fourth Wall

One of the Zucker Brothers’ signature techniques was breaking the fourth wall, directly addressing the audience to subvert expectations and enhance the comedic effect. This technique became a staple of their films, enhancing the sense of intimacy and complicity with the viewers.

Surreal and Nonsensical Humor

The Zucker Brothers’ humor extended beyond parody and fourth-wall breaking, embracing the surreal and nonsensical. Their films feature a barrage of bizarre characters, outrageous situations, and intentionally illogical plot twists that defied conventional comedic storytelling. This unconventional approach resulted in a unique and unforgettable comedic experience.

Film	Release Date
Airplane!	1980
Police Squad!	1982
Top Secret!	1984

Road trip hijinks: Adventures on and off the open road

Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

An uptight marketing executive is forced to travel across the country with a talkative and eccentric salesman. Along the way, they encounter a series of misadventures, including missed flights, lost luggage, and a hilarious car rental mix-up.

The Blues Brothers (1980)

Two brothers, Jake and Elwood Blues, reunite to raise money for an orphanage by forming a blues band. Their road trip takes them on a wild adventure, complete with car chases, musical performances, and plenty of laughs.

Vacation (1983)

The Griswold family embarks on a disastrous road trip to Wally World theme park. Along the way, they encounter a series of mishaps, including a flat tire, a broken-down car, and a run-in with a rabid squirrel.

National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)

The Griswolds take their misadventures to Europe, where they visit various landmarks and encounter a slew of cultural misunderstandings. The trip is full of hilarious moments, including a visit to the Louvre where Clark Griswold accidentally destroys a priceless statue.

Road Trip (2000)

Four college students embark on a cross-country drive to deliver a sex tape to a girlfriend. Along the way, they encounter a nosy police officer, a group of bikers, and a pair of hitchhikers who turn out to be more than they seem.

Movie	Director	Year
Planes, Trains & Automobiles	John Hughes	1987
The Blues Brothers	John Landis	1980
Vacation	Harold Ramis	1983
National Lampoon’s European Vacation	Amy Heckerling	1985
Road Trip	Todd Phillips	2000

The rise of the female comedian: Women break through the comedy ceiling

In the 1980s, women comedians finally began to break through the comedy ceiling. For decades, comedy had been a male-dominated field, with few opportunities for women to perform. But in the ’80s, a new generation of female comedians emerged, paving the way for the many successful women in comedy today.

There were a number of factors that contributed to the rise of the female comedian in the 1980s. One was the growing popularity of stand-up comedy. In the ’70s, stand-up comedy had become a popular form of entertainment, and women were increasingly drawn to it as a way to express themselves and their humor.

Another factor was the rise of feminism. In the ’60s and ’70s, the feminist movement had made great strides in breaking down gender barriers. This gave women more confidence to pursue careers in comedy, which had previously been seen as a male-dominated field.

Finally, the 1980s saw the emergence of a number of female comedians who were willing to challenge the status quo. These comedians, such as Joan Rivers, Whoopi Goldberg, and Roseanne Barr, were not afraid to talk about taboo subjects and to challenge traditional gender roles.

The rise of the female comedian in the 1980s was a major breakthrough for women in comedy. It paved the way for the many successful women in comedy today, and it continues to inspire women to pursue careers in comedy.

Here are some of the most influential female comedians of the 1980s:

Name	Years active	Notable achievements
Joan Rivers	1960s-2014	First woman to host a late-night talk show
Whoopi Goldberg	1980s-present	One of the few women to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award (EGOT)
Roseanne Barr	1980s-present	Starred in the groundbreaking sitcom “Roseanne”

Political satire: Sharp wit and biting commentary

The 1980s was a decade of political upheaval and social change, and this was reflected in the comedy of the time. A number of comedies used satire to take aim at the political establishment, with sharp wit and biting commentary.

Trading Places (1983)

This comedy classic stars Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy as two men from very different backgrounds who are forced to switch places. The film is a sharp satire on class and race relations, and it features some of the most memorable one-liners in comedy history.

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)

Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece is a dark comedy about the Cold War and the dangers of nuclear war. The film is full of memorable characters, including Peter Sellers in three different roles, and it is still relevant today.

MASH (1970-1983)

This long-running TV series was set during the Korean War, but it used the war as a backdrop to satirize the Vietnam War and the military-industrial complex. The show was known for its dark humor and its ensemble cast of talented actors.

The Big Bus (1976)

This comedy stars Joseph Bologna and Stockard Channing as a couple who go on a cross-country bus trip. The film is a satire on the American obsession with travel and consumerism.

The Jerk (1979)

Steve Martin stars in this hilarious comedy about a man who is raised by a black family and believes he is black. The film is a satire on race and identity, and it features some of Martin’s most memorable characters.

Airplane! (1980)

This classic comedy spoofs disaster movies and features a star-studded cast including Leslie Nielsen, Robert Hays, and Julie Hagerty. The film is full of sight gags and verbal humor, and it is still one of the most beloved comedies of all time.

Cult Classics: Hidden Gems that Defy Convention

8. Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead (1987)

Prepare for a truly bizarre and hilarious cult classic. Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead centers around a fried chicken restaurant haunted by disgruntled former chickens seeking vengeance. Yes, you read that correctly. This campy horror comedy is filled with absurd humor, gruesome gore, and a killer soundtrack. Get ready for a midnight movie experience like no other, where you’ll be simultaneously horrified and laughing out loud.

Movie	IMDb Rating	Rotten Tomatoes Rating
Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead	6.3	68%

International influences: Laughter knows no borders

The 1980s comedy landscape was not limited to English-language productions; laughter truly knew no borders. Here are some notable international comedies that made a mark during this decade:

France

French cinema produced a wealth of laugh-out-loud comedies, including The Cabbage Soup (1981), a slapstick farce about a family’s misadventures involved with a magic cabbage soup recipe.

Italy

Italian comedies took a more satirical and political approach, with films like I’m Not Scared (1981) exploring the complexities of Italian society under authoritarian rule.

Germany

German comedies showcased a unique brand of dry wit, as seen in films like The Boat Is Full (1981), a satirical take on German immigration policies.

Japan

Japanese cinema contributed an array of zany and absurdist comedies, including Tampopo (1985), a culinary adventure that combines food, sex, and comedy in a surreal way.

The international comedies listed above demonstrate the diverse and ever-evolving nature of comedy across cultures. These films broke down linguistic barriers and brought laughter to audiences worldwide, proving that humor has the power to transcend borders.

The enduring legacy: The impact and influence of 80’s comedies today

The enduring legacy of 80’s comedies today can be attributed to several factors:

Nostalgia: The nostalgia for the 1980s has contributed to the enduring popularity of 80’s comedies. Many people associate these films with their childhood or adolescence, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort.

Cultural relevance: Many 80’s comedies reflected the social and cultural issues of the time, such as the rise of technology, the changing family dynamics, and the emergence of youth culture. These films continue to resonate with audiences who can relate to these themes.

Memorable characters and catchphrases: 80’s comedies are known for their memorable characters and catchphrases. These elements have become iconic and continue to be referenced in popular culture.

Influence on later comedies: 80’s comedies have had a significant impact on later comedy films. Many subsequent comedies have borrowed elements from 80’s films, such as their physical humor, exaggerated characters, and irreverent humor.

Availability on streaming platforms: The rise of streaming platforms has made 80’s comedies more accessible to a wider audience. This has contributed to their resurgence in popularity.

Influence on stand-up comedy: Many comedians who emerged in the 80s drew inspiration from the physical comedy and observational humor found in 80’s comedies.

Preservation efforts: Organizations such as the National Film Registry and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have preserved many 80’s comedies, ensuring their availability for future generations.

International appeal: Many 80’s comedies have achieved international success, with their themes and humor translating well across cultures.

Timeless humor: Although some of the cultural references in 80’s comedies may be dated, the core humor often remains timeless, ensuring their appeal to new generations of viewers.

Reboots and sequels: The success of 80’s comedies has led to numerous reboots and sequels, which have introduced these films to a new generation of fans.

Best Comedies of the 1980s

The 1980s was a golden age for comedy films. With a wide range of hilarious and memorable movies, the decade had something to offer everyone. From slapstick classics to witty rom-coms, the best comedies of the 80s continue to entertain and make audiences laugh today.

One of the most iconic comedies of the era is “Airplane!” (1980). This hilarious spoof of disaster movies is packed with quotable one-liners and memorable characters, making it a timeless classic. Another beloved comedy from the 80s is “The Blues Brothers” (1980), a musical comedy about two brothers trying to save their Catholic orphanage. With its catchy tunes and star-studded cast, “The Blues Brothers” is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

For those looking for a more romantic comedy, “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989) is a charming and insightful look at relationships. This Nora Ephron film features memorable performances from Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, and its witty dialogue has become iconic.