30 Hilarious Comedy and Parody Films from the 1980s That Still Make Us Laugh

The 1980s were a golden era for comedy, delivering films that mixed sharp wit, slapstick humor, and clever parodies of popular genres. From teen adventures to wild spoofs, these movies captured the spirit of the decade with unforgettable characters and quotable lines.

We’re diving into a list of the 30 best comedy and parody films from this vibrant decade, each one packed with laughs and timeless charm. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering them for the first time, these movies are sure to entertain.

Better Off Dead… (1985)

Lane Meyer’s life unravels when his girlfriend dumps him for a ski jock, leading to a string of darkly funny misadventures. John Cusack shines as the heartbroken teen, navigating absurd situations with a quirky charm that’s hard to resist.

The film’s offbeat humor, like Lane’s suicidal antics and a paperboy chasing his two dollars, blends teen angst with surreal comedy. Its cult status grew over time, thanks to its bold mix of heart and hilarity.

The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)

Terry Gilliam’s fantastical tale follows Baron Munchausen, a dreamer spinning wild stories of adventure. John Neville leads a colorful cast through a visually stunning world of imagination and absurdity.

This overlooked gem mixes lavish visuals with sharp wit, poking fun at tall tales while celebrating creativity. Its whimsical humor and grand scope make it a unique entry in 80s comedy.

Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)

Robin Williams delivers a powerhouse performance as a radio DJ shaking up the airwaves during the Vietnam War. His rapid-fire humor and heartfelt moments bring warmth to a tense setting.

The film balances sharp comedy with poignant drama, using Williams’ energy to highlight the absurdity of war. It’s a showcase of his improvisational genius, packed with memorable broadcasts.

My Bodyguard (1980)

Clifford Peache, a new kid at school, hires a tough loner to protect him from bullies. Chris Makepeace and Adam Baldwin anchor this heartfelt story of friendship and standing up for yourself.

The humor comes from the clash of personalities and the quirky dynamics of high school life. It’s a grounded comedy with a big heart, often overshadowed by flashier 80s hits.

She’s Gotta Have It (1986)

Spike Lee’s debut follows Nola Darling, a young woman juggling three suitors with bold confidence. The film’s fresh take on relationships sparkles with witty dialogue and Brooklyn charm.

This indie comedy blends humor with sharp social commentary, capturing the energy of 80s urban life. Its playful tone and unique voice make it a standout in the decade’s lineup.

Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985)

Pee-wee Herman’s quest to recover his stolen bike is a zany road trip full of oddball characters. Paul Reubens’ childlike energy drives this Tim Burton-directed cult classic.

The film’s absurd humor, from Pee-wee’s hitchhiking escapades to his iconic dance, feels both silly and endearing. It’s a wild ride that perfectly captures 80s quirkiness.

Real Genius (1985)

A group of genius college students, led by Val Kilmer’s charismatic Chris Knight, outsmart their shady professor. The film mixes sharp wit with over-the-top pranks, like a laser-powered popcorn explosion.

Its blend of nerdy humor and rebellious spirit makes it a love letter to 80s youth culture. Kilmer’s charm and the film’s clever gags keep it fresh and fun.

Shirley Valentine (1989)

A bored housewife escapes her routine life for a transformative trip to Greece. Pauline Collins’ heartfelt performance brings humor and warmth to this story of self-discovery.

The film’s sharp dialogue and relatable struggles make it a quiet gem among louder 80s comedies. It’s a funny, uplifting look at breaking free from monotony.

Torch Song Trilogy (1988)

Harvey Fierstein stars as a drag performer navigating love and family in this heartfelt comedy. The film’s mix of campy humor and emotional depth resonates with universal themes of acceptance.

Its bold storytelling and witty one-liners capture the spirit of 80s New York. This underseen classic blends laughs with raw, honest moments.

Polyester (1981)

John Waters’ satire follows a suburban housewife dealing with a dysfunctional family and a sleazy husband. Divine’s over-the-top performance anchors this campy, outrageous comedy.

The film’s exaggerated style and sharp jabs at domestic life make it a cult favorite. Its bold humor and unique ‘Odorama’ gimmick set it apart in the 80s scene.

Coming to America (1988)

Eddie Murphy plays an African prince searching for love in New York, delivering laughs with his fish-out-of-water antics. The film’s charm lies in Murphy’s multiple roles and sharp cultural humor.

This blockbuster hit blends romance, comedy, and satire, poking fun at American life through an outsider’s eyes. Its infectious energy makes it a timeless classic.

The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985)

Woody Allen’s gem follows a woman whose movie-star crush steps off the screen into her life. Mia Farrow and Jeff Daniels shine in this clever blend of fantasy and heartfelt comedy.

The film’s whimsical humor explores the blur between reality and fiction, delivering both laughs and poignant moments. It’s a unique, highbrow take on 80s comedy.

UHF (1989)

Weird Al Yankovic stars as a dreamer turning a failing TV station into a hit with bizarre programming. The film’s chaotic, parody-filled humor targets pop culture with relentless gags.

Its cult status grew from its absurd sketches, like ‘Conan the Librarian,’ and Al’s infectious energy. This underdog comedy captures the wild spirit of late 80s humor.

Heathers (1989)

This dark comedy follows Veronica, a teen navigating a clique of cruel popular girls and a dangerous new love interest. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater deliver biting wit in this cult classic.

The film’s sharp satire of high school culture and its twisted humor set it apart from typical teen comedies. Its bold tone still feels daring and fresh.

Gregory’s Girl (1981)

A shy Scottish teen falls for a girl who joins the school soccer team, sparking awkward, heartfelt laughs. Bill Forsyth’s direction brings charm to this low-key romantic comedy.

The film’s gentle humor and authentic portrayal of young love make it a hidden gem. Its Scottish quirks add a unique flavor to 80s teen films.

Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)

This teen comedy follows a group of high schoolers navigating love, sex, and growing up. Sean Penn’s iconic Spicoli steals scenes with his laid-back surfer vibe.

Its honest humor and relatable characters capture the 80s youth experience. The film’s mix of raunchy laughs and heartfelt moments made it a cultural touchstone.

Tampopo (1985)

A Japanese widow strives to perfect her ramen shop with the help of quirky mentors. This ‘noodle western’ blends slapstick, sensuality, and food-centric humor in a fresh way.

The film’s surreal vignettes and warm comedy celebrate culinary passion and human connection. It’s a delightful, underseen gem from the 80s global scene.

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)

Two slacker teens travel through time to ace their history exam, meeting figures like Socrates and Joan of Arc. Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter’s goofy chemistry drives this sci-fi comedy.

Its lighthearted take on history and infectious enthusiasm make it endlessly rewatchable. The film’s silly charm spawned a beloved franchise.

Risky Business (1983)

Tom Cruise stars as a teen whose life spirals after hiring a call girl while his parents are away. The film blends coming-of-age comedy with sharp satire of suburban privilege.

Its iconic dance scene and witty take on materialism make it a defining 80s hit. Cruise’s breakout role adds star power to the laughs.

48 Hrs. (1982)

A tough cop teams up with a wisecracking criminal to catch a killer in this action-packed comedy. Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy’s chemistry fuels the film’s fast-paced humor.

The film’s blend of gritty action and sharp banter birthed the buddy comedy genre. Its subversive edge keeps it a standout from the early 80s.

When Harry Met Sally… (1989)

This romantic comedy follows two friends debating if men and women can stay platonic. Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s sparkling chemistry anchors the film’s witty dialogue.

Its honest look at love and friendship, paired with iconic scenes like the deli moment, made it a classic. The humor feels fresh even today.

Trading Places (1983)

Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd star as a hustler and a wealthy exec swapped in a social experiment. The film’s sharp satire of class and race delivers big laughs.

Its clever premise and standout performances make it a biting comedy with heart. The film’s holiday setting adds extra charm to its enduring appeal.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

Clark Griswold’s cross-country road trip with his family goes hilariously wrong. Chevy Chase’s earnest bumbling drives this screwball comedy full of quotable chaos.

The film’s mix of slapstick and family dynamics captures the absurdity of vacations. Its relentless humor made it a cornerstone of 80s comedy.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

A stressed businessman and a talkative salesman team up to get home for Thanksgiving. Steve Martin and John Candy’s odd-couple dynamic fuels this heartfelt road trip comedy.

The film balances gut-busting gags with touching moments, making it a holiday classic. Candy’s warmth and Martin’s wit are unforgettable.

The Blues Brothers (1980)

Jake and Elwood Blues reunite their band to save their childhood orphanage, causing chaos across Chicago. John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd bring music and mayhem to this cult hit.

Its blend of blues, comedy, and over-the-top car chases makes it a wild ride. The film’s energy and iconic tunes keep it timeless.

Ghostbusters (1984)

A team of quirky scientists battles supernatural threats in New York City. Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis deliver deadpan humor in this sci-fi comedy gem.

The film’s clever mix of spooky thrills and sharp wit made it a cultural phenomenon. Its quotable lines and charm still resonate.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

A charismatic teen skips school for an epic day of adventure in Chicago. Matthew Broderick’s fourth-wall-breaking performance makes this John Hughes classic a joy.

The film’s carefree humor and rebellious spirit capture the essence of youth. Its iconic moments, like the parade scene, remain unforgettable.

Spaceballs (1987)

Mel Brooks’ sci-fi spoof takes on ‘Star Wars’ with hilarious gags and absurd characters. Rick Moranis and John Candy shine in this laugh-out-loud parody.

The film’s over-the-top humor, from ‘ludicrous speed’ to Pizza the Hutt, makes it a cult favorite. Its playful jabs at sci-fi tropes never get old.

The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (1988)

Leslie Nielsen’s bumbling detective Frank Drebin foils a plot with clueless charm. This slapstick parody of cop dramas delivers relentless gags and deadpan humor.

Its absurd situations and quick-fire jokes make it a comedy classic. Nielsen’s iconic performance redefined his career and the parody genre.

Airplane! (1980)

A traumatized pilot must land a plane full of sick passengers in this disaster movie spoof. Robert Hays and Leslie Nielsen lead a cast delivering nonstop laughs.

The film’s clever wordplay, visual gags, and absurd humor set the standard for parodies. Its timeless wit makes it one of the funniest films ever.

Which 80s comedy or parody film brings you the most laughs, or did we miss a hidden gem? Share your thoughts in the comments!