The first half of the 2020s has been a remarkable and diverse era for cinematic comedy. While it may seem that not many good comedies have come out lately (which is kind of true), some filmmakers have delivered a wealth of films that have not only entertained audiences but also achieved significant critical acclaim. From absurdist multiverse adventures and biting satires to inventive slapstick and heartwarming "dramedies", the comedies of this period have captured the anxieties and absurdities of modern life with wit and innovation. Some of these are silly and fun, while others have a darker tone and have a deeper meaning beyond the absurd.
Here is a look at nine highly praised comedies released between 2020 and 2025 that have defined the decade so far.
This Sundance hit breathed new life into the time-loop genre. Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti star as two wedding guests who find themselves trapped reliving the same day in the desert indefinitely. What begins with nihilistic antics evolves into a surprisingly deep and hilarious exploration of love, commitment, and existential dread.
Why it's praised: Critics lauded Palm Springs for its sharp screenplay, the magnetic chemistry between its leads, and its ability to blend high-concept science fiction with genuine romantic comedy charm.
Emma Seligman’s directorial debut is a masterclass in tension and cringe comedy. Set almost entirely in real-time at a Jewish funeral service (shiva), the film follows a college student (Rachel Sennott) who must navigate a claustrophobic encounter with her parents, her ex-girlfriend, and, unexpectedly, her sugar daddy.
Why it's praised: Celebrated for its suffocating atmosphere—often feeling more like a horror movie than a comedy—Shiva Baby was recognized for its sharp, insightful humor regarding the pressures facing young adults and Sennott's breakout performance.
While blending action, sci-fi, and family drama, the core of the Daniels’ Oscar-winning epic is its profound absurdist humor. Michelle Yeoh gives a tour-de-force performance as an overwhelmed laundromat owner who discovers she is the key to saving the multiverse. The film’s relentless creativity includes bizarre scenarios, rapid-fire visual gags, and witty dialogue.
Why it's praised: Universally acclaimed and winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture, the film was hailed for its originality, emotional depth, and ability to marry profound themes with genuinely hilarious, anarchic comedy.
Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy is a poignant exploration of a dissolving friendship. Set on a remote Irish island in 1923, the film centers on Pádraic (Colin Farrell), who is devastated when his lifelong friend Colm (Brendan Gleeson) abruptly ends their relationship. The consequences are both tragic and deeply funny.
Why it's praised: The film earned widespread acclaim for its razor-sharp dialogue, exceptional performances from the entire cast, and its masterful ability to find gallows humor in the midst of despair and isolation.
Unless you've been living on the moon, you're well aware of Greta Gerwig’s cultural juggernaut. a visually dazzling and subversive comedy. Margot Robbie shines as the titular doll who experiences an existential crisis, leading her on a journey to the real world with a scene-stealing Ken (Ryan Gosling). The film successfully tackled feminist themes within a playful, meta-humorous package.
Why it's praised: Barbie became a global phenomenon, praised for its smart, satirical script, impeccable production design, and brilliant comedic performances, particularly from Gosling.
Alexander Payne’s beautifully bittersweet film captures the feel of 1970s cinema. It follows a curmudgeonly history teacher (Paul Giamatti) at a New England prep school forced to supervise students left behind during Christmas break. He forms an unlikely bond with a troubled student (Dominic Sessa) and the school’s grieving head cook (Da'Vine Joy Randolph).
Why it's praised: Adored by critics for its intelligent script and its blend of melancholy and warmth, the film was lauded for the powerful performances of its central trio, earning Randolph an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Richard Linklater’s charming action-comedy is loosely based on the true story of Gary Johnson (Glen Powell), a mild-mannered professor who discovers a hidden talent while moonlighting as a fake assassin for the police. His professional and personal lives collide when he falls for a client (Adria Arjona).
Why it's praised: The film was highlighted as a smart, sexy, and thoroughly entertaining romp, largely celebrated for Glen Powell’s versatile and charismatic performance and the witty, engaging script he co-wrote with Linklater.
One of the most unique cinematic experiences of the decade, this independent film is a near-silent, black-and-white slapstick epic. It follows a 19th-century applejack salesman who must survive the winter by mastering the art of fur trapping, leading to an escalating war with a massive beaver empire (played by actors in mascot suits).
Why it's praised: Hailed for its relentless visual ingenuity and commitment to a live-action Looney Tunes aesthetic, it's celebrated as a testament to low-budget creativity and pure comedic craft.
A modern reimagining of Ang Lee's 1993 classic, this 2025 release directed by Andrew Ahn (Fire Island) updates the story with a new dynamic. When Min (Han Gi-chan) needs a green card, his friend Angela (Kelly Marie Tran) agrees to a sham marriage in exchange for Min funding the IVF treatments for Angela and her partner Lee (Lily Gladstone). The arrival of Min's traditional grandmother (Youn Yuh-jung) complicates the arrangement.
Why it's praised: Earning strong reviews following its Sundance premiere, the film has been praised for its tender direction, sharp writing, and excellent ensemble performances, successfully modernizing the story while maintaining its comedic heart.
