top classic comedy movies from the 80s you need to watch
The 1980s delivered some of the most memorable and hilarious comedies that continue to influence humor today. From slapstick to clever satire, these iconic films defined a decade of laughter and fun.



The 1980s stand out as a golden era for comedy cinema, combining sharp wit, memorable characters, and innovative storytelling that still resonates with audiences. Movies like Airplane! set a new standard for parody, blending absurd humor with rapid-fire jokes that have become legendary. Meanwhile, The Blues Brothers brought a unique mix of musical energy and comedy, showcasing the versatility of the genre. The decade also introduced unforgettable characters like Ferris Bueller, whose carefree day off became a cultural touchstone, and the ghost-capturing antics of Ghostbusters, which cleverly mixed supernatural elements with humor.
Notably, the 80s comedy scene often featured collaborations between iconic comedians such as Eddie Murphy in Coming to America and Beverly Hills Cop, blending sharp social commentary with laugh-out-loud moments. Films like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation tapped into family dynamics with relatable and exaggerated holiday chaos, influencing countless holiday comedies after.
This era's comedies also embraced diverse settings and themes, from the military misadventures in Stripes to the high school satire of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. These movies not only entertained but captured the spirit and quirks of the decade, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in the roots of modern comedy films. Whether through slapstick, satire, or character-driven humor, 80s comedies remain a vital part of film history, offering both nostalgia and timeless laughs.
14. Uncle Buck (1989)
Another gem written and directed by John Hughes, this film stars the wonderful John Candy as Buck Russell, a lovable but irresponsible bachelor tasked with looking after his nieces and nephew. Candy brings immense warmth and humor to the role of the unconventional guardian, clashing hilariously with his teenage niece Tia (Jean Louisa Kelly) and bonding with the younger kids. It's a sweet and funny family comedy that highlights Candy's talent for playing big-hearted, slightly clumsy characters. Look out for a young Macaulay Culkin in one of his early roles!

13. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
A holiday staple for many families! Chevy Chase returns as Clark Griswold, determined to have a perfect family Christmas, despite the universe (and his relatives) conspiring against him. Written by John Hughes, the film leans into the chaotic, stressful, and often hilarious reality of family gatherings during the holidays. From disastrous Christmas lights displays to unexpected houseguests like Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), the gags are classic slapstick with a relatable core of holiday anxiety. It's a festive film that captures the spirit of Christmas... with a healthy dose of comedic mayhem.

12. Stripes (1981)
Looking for a new direction in life, friends John Winger (Bill Murray) and Russell Ziskey (Harold Ramis) decide the best option is to join the army. What follows is a comedic romp through basic training and beyond, filled with Murray's signature deadpan humor and improvisational style. Directed by Ivan Reitman, the film features a great supporting cast, including Warren Oates as their exasperated drill sergeant and John Candy as a fellow recruit. It's a fun, rebellious take on military life that delivers plenty of laughs through its anti-establishment attitude.

11. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
More than just a teen comedy, this film offered a surprisingly authentic (and hilarious) look at high school life in the early 80s. Written by Cameron Crowe based on his undercover experiences, it follows a group of California teenagers navigating jobs, relationships, and finding their place. The ensemble cast features many future stars, including Sean Penn in an iconic role as the laid-back surfer Jeff Spicoli. It's known for its episodic structure, realistic dialogue, and moments that range from awkward to laugh-out-loud funny, capturing the spirit of the era.

10. Caddyshack (1980)
This golf comedy is a genuine cult phenomenon! Set at an exclusive country club, the film is less about plot and more about letting comedic icons like Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, and Ted Knight loose to improvise and create chaos. Directed by Harold Ramis, it's known for its irreverent, anarchic humor and unforgettable characters, from Dangerfield's loudmouthed developer Al Czervik to Murray's eccentric greenskeeper Carl Spackler battling a gopher. It's the definition of a quotable movie, even if the humor is sometimes as wild as the characters.

9. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
A beloved Thanksgiving classic! This John Hughes film pairs Steve Martin and John Candy as two mismatched travelers trying desperately to get home for the holiday. Martin plays Neal Page, a high-strung marketing executive, and Candy is Del Griffith, a clumsy but kindhearted shower curtain ring salesman. Their journey becomes an escalating series of transportation disasters and awkward encounters, leading to both hilarious frustration and unexpected moments of connection. It's a perfect blend of physical comedy, sharp dialogue, and genuine human warmth, proving that sometimes the greatest journeys are the ones you never planned.

8. Coming to America (1988)
Eddie Murphy shines again in this charming and funny story about Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who travels to Queens, New York, to find a wife. This film is notable for Murphy and Arsenio Hall playing multiple, distinct characters under heavy makeup, a feat that is both impressive and hilarious. Directed by John Landis, it's a delightful culture-clash comedy with a sweet romantic core. The supporting cast is fantastic, adding layers of humor and heart to Akeem's adventure in the real world. It's a feel-good film that celebrates finding love and independence.

7. Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
This movie cemented Eddie Murphy's status as a global superstar. He plays Axel Foley, a cool, wise-cracking Detroit detective who heads to posh Beverly Hills to investigate a friend's murder. The fish-out-of-water scenario provides endless comedic opportunities, with Foley's street smarts clashing hilariously with the upscale, rigid environment. Directed by Martin Brest, it's an action-comedy that perfectly balances exciting sequences with Murphy's improvisational genius and charisma. The catchy synth-pop soundtrack, featuring Harold Faltermeyer's iconic 'Axel F' theme, was a huge hit in its own right.

6. The Blues Brothers (1980)
More than just a comedy, this is a musical, a road trip, and a chaotic spectacle! Born from a Saturday Night Live sketch, John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd star as Jake and Elwood Blues, on a 'mission from God' to save their old orphanage. The film is legendary for its insane car chases (reportedly destroying over 100 police cars during production!) and incredible musical performances from legends like Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Cab Calloway, and Ray Charles. It's a unique, high-energy, and utterly cool film with a massive cult following.

5. Trading Places (1983)
A fantastic social satire wrapped in a hilarious comedy package! Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd are at the top of their game as a street hustler and a commodities broker whose lives are swapped on a bet by two wealthy, cruel brothers. Directed by John Landis, the film takes sharp jabs at class and privilege while delivering genuinely funny situations. Jamie Lee Curtis is also excellent in a role that showed her range beyond horror. The film's climax on the trading floor is chaotic and incredibly satisfying. It's a smart comedy that doesn't pull its punches.

4. Airplane! (1980)
Prepare for laugh-a-minute madness! This film is a masterclass in spoof comedy, relentlessly throwing jokes, sight gags, and absurd situations at you from the moment it starts. Directed by the Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker trio, it parodies the disaster films popular in the 70s, particularly Zero Hour! (1957), from which it borrowed significant plot points and dialogue – but turned them hilarious. The casting is brilliant, featuring dramatic actors like Leslie Nielsen and Robert Stack delivering ridiculous lines with deadpan perfection. You'll be quoting lines from this movie for years after watching it. And yes, there is jive talk.

3. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)
John Hughes absolutely nailed the teen experience with this one. Ferris Bueller is the cool kid we all wanted to be, expertly played by Matthew Broderick. His schemes to ditch school and spend a day exploring Chicago with his best friend and girlfriend are endlessly entertaining. The film cleverly breaks the fourth wall, allowing Ferris to talk directly to the audience, which adds to its charm. Alan Ruck as Cameron Frye provides a perfect counterpoint to Ferris's exuberance. Did you know the famous parade scene was filmed during a real Von Steuben Day parade? It’s a feel-good classic about seizing the day.

2. Ghostbusters (1984)
Who you gonna call? This supernatural comedy is an absolute blast from start to finish! With a dream team cast including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, the chemistry is off the charts. The concept of parapsychologists starting a ghost removal service in New York City is pure genius. The special effects were cutting-edge for the time, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man is an all-time great movie monster (or rather, destructor!). The film's theme song, performed by Ray Parker Jr., became a massive hit and is still instantly recognizable. It's a perfect mix of humor, action, and just a touch of spooky fun.

1. Back to the Future (1985)
Strap in for a truly iconic ride! This film isn't just a comedy; it's a perfect blend of science fiction, adventure, and genuinely funny moments that defined a generation. Michael J. Fox is pitch-perfect as Marty McFly, and Christopher Lloyd is unforgettable as the eccentric Doc Brown. Did you know they originally wanted Eric Stoltz as Marty? Filming with Fox meant reshooting almost everything, but it was absolutely the right call. The DeLorean time machine is instantly recognizable, and the film's exploration of cause and effect through time travel is both clever and hilarious. It's a feel-good movie that still holds up spectacularly today!
