Looking to have a good time in the world of cinema? Look no further than these side-splitting indie comedies! From clever jokes about relationships to stories of personal growth, the best indie comedy films come in all shapes and sizes. Keep in mind that a few of these movies even launched the careers of beloved filmmakers!
Topping the list is the iconic 1994 film Clerks. This gem introduced viewers to the genius of writer-director Kevin Smith and his one-of-a-kind slacker comedy style. Fun fact: Clerks was actually filmed at the convenience and video store where Smith had his day job. Another must-see indie comedy is Juno, which will have you in stitches with its sharp and clever dialogue.
If you’re in the mood for something completely different, give Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi’s mockumentary, What We Do in the Shadows, a watch. This film takes a hilarious peek into the lives of vampires. Other notable indie comedies that are worth mentioning include Napoleon Dynamite, Rushmore, and The Squid and the Whale.
Which indie comedy do you find the funniest? Let us know which one had you laughing the hardest. And keep an eye out for new additions to this list, because we’re always on the lookout for more indie comedies that will bring a smile to your face.
1. The Big Lebowski
Get ready for a seriously cool and quirky movie that will have you laughing out loud and falling in love with its offbeat charm. It’s called “The Big Lebowski” and it’s all about this guy called “The Dude” who gets caught up in a crazy mix-up.
So, this Dude is just your average, laid-back dude who loves bowling. But one day, he finds himself in the middle of a seriously bizarre adventure. Turns out, he’s been mistaken for someone else, and now he’s caught up in a wild ride involving kidnapped wives, some seriously strange nihilists, and a really dirty rug. Yeah, you heard that right, a rug.
But here’s the thing, this movie isn’t just your typical comedy. Nope, the Coen Brothers, the masterminds behind this film, have crafted something truly special. They’ve blended together slapstick humor and deep, existential themes to create a truly unique experience that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
And let’s not forget about the characters. They are seriously lovable. You won’t be able to resist falling in love with The Dude and his ragtag group of friends. And the way their story unfolds is just pure brilliance.
So, if you’re looking for a movie that will tickle your funny bone and make you ponder the meaning of life all at the same time, “The Big Lebowski” is the one for you. It’s a cult classic that will leave you wanting more.
Released: 1998
Directed by: Joel Coen
Actors: Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore
2. What We Do in the Shadows
This mockumentary is a true gem in the world of comedy. It’s delightfully droll and outrageously funny, following the daily lives of vampire roommates who are centuries old and trying to adapt to modern society. With hysterical gags, delightful special effects, and a sharp wit, this indie film is a breath of fresh air. Its unique premise and talented cast make it an instant classic among indie comedies, leaving you in stitches from start to finish.
Released: 2014
Directed by: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi
Actors: Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, Jonny Brugh
3. Being John Malkovich
Get ready for a mind-bending journey into the unknown. This movie is like going down a rabbit hole, filled with sarcastic humor and deep thoughts about life. It revolves around a puppeteer who is having a tough time in life, but things take a hilariously bizarre turn when he stumbles upon a doorway into the mind of the famous actor, John Malkovich.
The whole concept of the movie is brilliantly thought out by screenwriter Charlie Kaufman and brought to life by the one and only John Malkovich. His performance is off-the-wall and totally unique.
Prepare yourself for some serious laughs and thought-provoking moments. This satirical masterpiece is bound to get under your skin and make you question everything you thought you knew about identity and consciousness.
Released: 1999
Directed by: Spike Jonze
Actors: John Cusack, Cameron Diaz, Catherine Keener
4. Dazed and Confused
Get ready for a hilarious trip back in time to the wild and crazy last days of the school year in 1976. This movie gives us a glimpse into the lives of high school students who are just dying to let loose and embrace their newfound freedom. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the angst and drama of being a teenager perfectly. And let’s not forget about the killer soundtrack that transports us straight back to that era.
Matthew McConaughey and Parker Posey deliver standout performances that bring this period piece to life. The entire cast is incredible, creating a comedic masterpiece that will have you rolling with laughter. This movie captures the excesses of youth in a way that is both painfully relatable and timeless. It’s a true comedic nirvana that you won’t want to miss.
Released: 1993
Directed by: Richard Linklater
Actors: Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Sasha Jenson
5. Rushmore
Wes Anderson’s second film, “Rushmore,” is truly impressive. It exudes an undeniable charm, revolving around the engaging character of Max Fischer, a clever and self-proclaimed terrible student at the esteemed Rushmore Academy. Bill Murray delivers a remarkable performance that adds to the film’s appeal. The soundtrack is delightfully quirky, as expected from Anderson, and his signature whimsical style shines throughout. It’s no surprise that both critics and viewers have fallen in love with this unique and humorous coming-of-age comedy.
Released: 1998
Directed by: Wes Anderson
Actors: Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Olivia Williams
6. Waiting for Guffman
Considered one of the greatest mockumentaries ever made, this hilarious comedy dives into the joys and struggles of small-town theater, while also shedding light on the quirks, obsessions, and almost delusional desire for fame that lie within all of us. The film is directed by and stars Christopher Guest, who expertly pokes fun at the eccentric personalities that inhabit the local drama scene. As the motley cast prepares for a peculiar, impromptu Americana celebration, the movie becomes an unmatched comedic masterpiece, effortlessly combining character-driven satire with brilliant improvised jokes.
Released: 1996
Directed by: Christopher Guest
Actors: Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, Fred Willard
7. Napoleon Dynamite
This indie dynamo is an instant cult classic that sheds light on the often overlooked “awkward teen” demographic. It’s a film that serves up laughs and thought-provoking moments for anyone who has ever felt like an outcast. Set in rural Idaho, the story revolves around the titular character’s journey through adolescence, all while embracing offbeat humor, timeless dance routines, and a charmingly strange commitment to being as uniquely weird as possible. By poking fun at stereotypes and tugging at heartstrings, this movie is the epitome of a quirky comedy that will leave you feeling oddly inspired.
Released: 2004
Directed by: Jared Hess
Actors: Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell
8. Clerks
This low-budget, black-and-white classic is a prime example of the power of DIY filmmaking and irreverent wit. It takes us on a hilarious journey through the sarcastic antics of two convenience clerks who are stuck in a soul-sucking workday. The witty banter and delightfully cynical outlook make this film a true gem. Not only did it launch Kevin Smith’s career, but it also imparted invaluable life lessons to a whole generation of aspiring slackers.
Released: 1994
Directed by: Kevin Smith
Actors: Brian O’Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Marilyn Ghigliotti
9. Bottle Rocket
Before Wes Anderson and Owen Wilson achieved success with films like Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums, they made their debut with a charming and delightfully crazy heist comedy. In this film, three friends make the questionable decision to become small-time criminals, only to discover that they are hilariously ill-equipped for the job. With its lovable cast of quirky characters and Anderson’s signature whimsical style, this indie flick showcases the remarkable talent that can be achieved even with a limited budget.
Released: 1996
Directed by: Wes Anderson
Actors: Owen Wilson, Luke Wilson, Robert Musgrave
10. Moonrise Kingdom
Wes Anderson’s latest film is perhaps his most whimsical one yet. It takes us on a journey into a charming 1960s New England diorama, viewed through the lens of adolescent romance. When Sam and Suzy, two precocious 12-year-olds, decide to run away together, their eccentric families set off on a delightfully absurd adventure to bring them back. As the story unfolds, the pastel-colored setting gradually transforms into a riotous chaos, like a vivid and surreal dream of childhood viewed through adult eyes.
Released: 2012
Directed by: Wes Anderson
Actors: Bruce Willis, Ed Norton, Bill Murray
11. Palm Springs
Marking a new approach to a widely-explored genre like the time loop narrative, this indie rom-com brings together unforgettable characters, crazy situations, and perfectly timed humor. Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti shine as guests stuck in an everlasting wedding reception, their comedic chemistry delivering heartfelt revelations and hilarious one-liners. It’s a smartly crafted modern love story with a thought-provoking twist.
Released: 2020
Directed by: Max Barbakow
Actors: Andy Samberg, Cristin Milioti, J.K. Simmons