Nothing compares to the sensation of a heartfelt, authentic laugh. It’s a surge of happiness, an exercise, and a marker of a joyful experience.
Netflix boasts an impressive selection of comedy films that provide that cheerful experience whenever you want. Whether you’re looking for action-filled antics, eccentric coming-of-age tales, awkward humor, fantastical absurdities, zany musical spectacles, or comedies intertwined with crime, there’s a flawless choice waiting for you. We’ve simplified the search for the funniest films by spotlighting them below.
Here are the wittiest films currently available for streaming on Netflix.
28. Cora Bora
If Too Much has you wanting more from Megan Stalter, don’t overlook this underrated gem. Directed by Hannah Pearl Utt, Cora Bora tracks the journey of the main character (played by Stalter), who leaves Portland and her partner (Jojo T. Gibbs) to chase her aspirations in LA. The couple’s open relationship invites exploration of other bonds — or, in Cora’s case, an uncomfortable one-night encounter with an attractive Flat Earther (Thomas Mann). When Cora starts to worry that her girlfriend may have feelings for someone else, it leads to a chaotic bisexual return home.
In my review from the film’s SXSW premiere in 2023, I remarked, “Cora Bora is a remarkable cringe comedy, filled with sharp wit, uncomfortable moments, and a passionate — albeit hurting — heart. Stalter skillfully transitions from bold humor to heartfelt dialogue, displaying a captivating range and moving screen presence. In simple terms, falling for Cora Bora is effortless.” — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor
How to watch: Cora Bora is currently streaming on Netflix.
27. Paddington in Peru
We could all benefit from a dose of Paddington in our lives, so why not enjoy Paddington in Peru? Although it may not reach the heights of Paddington 2, director Dougal Wilson creates an enchanting adventure in his directorial debut.
This time, Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) returns to his native deepest, darkest Peru, accompanied by the Brown family. In his quest to reunite with his missing Aunt Lucy, he meets a lively, guitar-strumming nun (Olivia Colman) and a whimsical, disguise-loving boat captain (Antonio Banderas). Colman and Banderas elevate Paddington’s adventure from amusing to downright hysterical, demonstrating that there are few pleasures greater than observing seasoned actors unleash their full eccentricity. Experience their performances and the entirety of Paddington in Peru, and discover why Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko described it as “the film we need right now.” — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter
How to watch: Paddington in Peru is currently streaming on Netflix.
26. Saturday Night
Wrongly ignored upon its release in the autumn of 2024, this wildly amusing adventure from Juno and Young Adult director Jason Reitman chronicles the 90-minute build-up to the very first episode of Saturday Night Live in October of 1975. The ensemble cast features Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Ella Hunt as Gilda Radner, Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Emily Fairn as Laraine Newman, Matt Wood as John Belushi, Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris, and Kim Matula as Jane Curtin.
With Gabriel Labelle portraying Lorne Michaels, the mastermind behind the wild and crazy plan, it’s surprising that this film only spans 90 minutes with such a plethora of characters (plus several more). While certain characters get less screen time — especially most of the women, which is unfortunate given the show’s historical treatment of women — Saturday Night encapsulates the frenzied and hilarious pandemonium that Michaels channeled into a comedy renaissance. — Jason Adams, Contributing Writer
How to watch: Saturday Night is currently streaming on Netflix.
25. Nonnas
This comedy, crafted by Liz Maccie and helmed by her husband Stephen Chbosky