The 115+ Best Comedy Drama Movies
Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing

The 115+ Best Comedy Drama Movies

Ranker Film
Updated April 23, 2024 259.5K views
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Vote for your personal favorite comedy-drama films, regardless of how popular or successful they were at the box office.
Latest additions: City Hunter, Sweet Dreams, Accidental Texan
Most divisive: The Royal Tenenbaums
Over 1.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 115+ Best Comedy Drama Movies

Laughing one moment, teary-eyed the next – that's the rollercoaster ride the best comedy drama movies of all time promise and deliver. These cinematic gems have mastered the art of blending the light-hearted with the profound, taking audiences on an emotional journey that resonates long after the credits roll. From exploring complex relationships and life's pivotal moments to tackling societal issues with humor and heart, these films showcase the power of storytelling that dances across the emotional spectrum.

Navigating this unique genre, the best dramedy movies strike an exquisite balance, ensuring neither the laughs nor the poignant moments overshadow one another. It's this delicate equilibrium that captivates viewers, making each film a memorable experience that both entertains and enlightens. These movies are a testament to the versatility of cinema, proving that it's possible to provoke thought and elicit laughter in equal measure.

Crafted with care, this list has been curated by movie experts who have delved deep into the world of comedy-dramas to handpick the must-watch titles. Moreover, it's been refined and validated by fans who've cast their votes, ensuring that these selections truly represent the best comedy drama movies of all time. Whether you're looking for laughter, tears, or ideally a bit of both, you're in the right place.

  • A League of Their Own
    1
    Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna
    249 votes

    A League of Their Own, directed by Penny Marshall, revolves around two sisters, Dottie and Kit, played by the incredible Geena Davis and Lori Petty, who join the very first All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II. As a heartwarming, comedic-drama, the story is also enriched by an exceptional cast, including Tom Hanks as Coach Jimmy Dugan and Madonna as player Mae Mordabito, earning rave reviews and securing its place in popular culture. The film shines a spotlight on the often overlooked contributions of women in sports, while also offering poignant insights into sisterhood, perseverance, and personal triumphs.

  • One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
    2
    Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher, Brad Dourif
    408 votes

    One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, an iconic comedy-drama directed by Miloš Forman, chronicles the life of Randle McMurphy, a prison inmate played by the legendary Jack Nicholson, who fakes insanity to get transferred to a mental institution only to encounter an oppressive environment and an iron-fisted nurse, Nurse Ratched. The memorable film, which boasts superb performances from the supporting cast, including Louise Fletcher, Danny DeVito, and Christopher Lloyd, emerged as a critical and commercial success, garnering five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Through its humor and dramatic tension, the story reinforces the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.

  • Good Morning, Vietnam
    3
    Robin Williams, Forest Whitaker, Tung Thanh Tran
    259 votes

    Good Morning, Vietnam, a captivating comedy-drama directed by Barry Levinson, features the late, great Robin Williams as the zany and talented radio DJ Adrian Cronauer, who attempts to uplift the spirits of U.S. troops during the Vietnam War. His unorthodox methods of bringing levity into an otherwise grim situation by playing rock 'n roll and humorously defying military conventions not only win the hearts of the soldiers but also capture the audience's sympathy for the character. While skillfully blending humor and hardships, the film garnered numerous accolades, with Williams earning his first-ever Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

  • The Breakfast Club
    4
    Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
    454 votes

    The Breakfast Club, a compelling comedy-drama directed by John Hughes, illuminates the lives of five high school students—each representing different stereotypes—forced to spend a Saturday in detention under the watch of an authoritarian principal. Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, and Anthony Michael Hall deliver outstanding performances as their characters discover common ground and shared experiences, ensuring the film's continued popularity and its status as a quintessential '80s coming-of-age movie. Balancing humor and more profound moments, The Breakfast Club unequivocally established itself as a pop culture phenomenon, with its central theme of embracing one's true identity leaving a meaningful impact on generations of moviegoers.

  • The Sandlot
    5
    Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
    249 votes

    The Sandlot, a nostalgic comedy-drama set in the 1960s, follows a young boy named Scotty Smalls, who finds himself part of a local baseball team where he forms an unlikely friendship with its talented leader, Benjamin Franklin Rodriguez. This quintessential coming-of-age movie, featuring Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, and the inimitable James Earl Jones, captures the childlike spirit of summer adventures, and leaves a lasting impression with its humorous depiction of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs experienced by the young characters. It is a testament to its enduring popularity that The Sandlot is still fondly remembered and celebrated by audiences of all ages.

  • The Devil Wears Prada
    6
    Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Adrian Grenier
    299 votes

    The Devil Wears Prada, a sophisticated comedy-drama adapted from Lauren Weisberger's best-selling novel, tells the tale of aspiring journalist Andrea "Andy" Sachs, played by Anne Hathaway, as she navigates the cutthroat world of fashion as the assistant to an intimidating and powerful fashion magazine editor, Miranda Priestly, portrayed by Meryl Streep. Through a masterful comedic and dramatic interplay, the film explores the complexities of ambition, loyalty, and personal sacrifice, and cements both Streep and Hathaway's reputations as critically acclaimed actresses. Boasting an exceptional supporting cast of Stanley Tucci, Emily Blunt, and Adrian Grenier, The Devil Wears Prada has achieved cult classic status among comedy-drama enthusiasts.

  • Little Miss Sunshine
    7
    Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette
    473 votes

    Little Miss Sunshine, a delightfully quirky comedy-drama directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, centers on a dysfunctional family embarking on a cross-country road trip to fulfill their young daughter Olive's dream of competing in a beauty pageant. The stellar ensemble cast, featuring Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Steve Carell, and a memorable breakthrough performance by Abigail Breslin, embraces absurdity, vulnerability, and humor with grace, earning the film critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. As a heartwarming, funny, and honest portrayal of embracing imperfections, Little Miss Sunshine continues to resonate with audiences today.

  • The Truman Show
    8
    Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Noah Emmerich
    355 votes

    The Truman Show, a thought-provoking comedy-drama directed by Peter Weir, introduces audiences to the meticulously constructed world of Truman Burbank, a naïve insurance salesman unknowingly living within a fabricated reality show, brilliantly portrayed by the captivating Jim Carrey. The film, which artfully explores themes of reality, free will, and the pervasive influence of media, boasts an exemplary supporting cast comprised of Laura Linney, Ed Harris, Noah Emmerich, and Natascha McElhone. Earning numerous critical accolades, including three Academy Award nominations, The Truman Show endures as a celebrated and imaginative satire of contemporary society.

  • The Help
    9
    Viola Davis, Emma Stone, Bryce Dallas Howard
    276 votes

    The Help, a powerful comedy-drama based on the best-selling novel by Kathryn Stockett, recounts the courageous story of a young white woman, Skeeter, played by Emma Stone, who collaborates with two African-American maids, Aibileen and Minny, portrayed by Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, to expose the racial injustices faced by domestic workers in 1960s Mississippi. The film's carefully crafted mix of humor, heartbreak, and human resilience, brought to life by a truly exceptional ensemble cast, garnered multiple award nominations and wins, including a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for Spencer. With its compelling subject matter and emotionally resonant storytelling, The Help remains a staple among comedy-drama enthusiasts.

  • Beverly Hills Cop
    10
    Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton
    160 votes

    Beverly Hills Cop, a highly entertaining comedy-drama directed by Martin Brest, showcases the remarkable talent of Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley, a resourceful and quick-witted Detroit police detective who travels to Beverly Hills to solve the murder of his best friend. Alongside a noteworthy supporting cast that includes Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, and Ronny Cox, the film achieves a perfect balance of humor, action, and suspense, which has not only cemented it as a box-office success but also a landmark film of the 1980s. The continuing appeal and popularity of Beverly Hills Cop can largely be attributed to Murphy's impeccable comedic timing and his compelling portrayal of the unconventional protagonist.

  • My Girl
    11
    Anna Chlumsky, Macaulay Culkin, Dan Aykroyd
    179 votes

    My Girl, a light-hearted coming-of-age comedy-drama, centers on the tender story of eleven-year-old Vada Sultenfuss, played by Anna Chlumsky, as she navigates the ups and downs of childhood, love, and loss amid the backdrop of 1970s Pennsylvania. Alongside her best friend, Thomas J., portrayed by Macaulay Culkin, Vada confronts mortality, grief, and the challenges of growing up, with the captivating performances of the young actors, as well as those of the supporting cast of Dan Aykroyd and Jamie Lee Curtis, striking an emotional chord with audiences. My Girl remains a beloved classic that touches hearts and evokes a sense of nostalgia with its artful blend of humor and pathos.

  • Erin Brockovich
    12
    Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart
    213 votes

    Erin Brockovich, a riveting comedy-drama directed by Steven Soderbergh, tells the true story of working-class mother Erin Brockovich, brilliantly portrayed by Julia Roberts, who discovers evidence of water contamination while working as a paralegal, resulting in the largest direct action lawsuit against a major utility company in American history. The keen balance of humor, human drama, and triumphant resolve is brought to life by the outstanding supporting cast, including Albert Finney and Aaron Eckhart. The film's widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for Roberts, solidifies its position as a popular and enduring comedy-drama highlighting the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for justice.

  • Jerry Maguire
    13
    Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding, Renée Zellweger
    221 votes

    Jerry Maguire, a crowd-pleasing comedy-drama directed by Cameron Crowe, centers on the journey of a struggling sports agent, portrayed by Tom Cruise, who, alongside his only remaining client, NFL player Rod Tidwell, played by Cuba Gooding Jr., attempts to reinvent himself and embrace a newfound sense of morality. The heartwarming story, which also stars Renée Zellweger as Cruise's love interest, captures the perfect blend of humor, drama, and romance, resulting in numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Gooding Jr. The memorable performances, engaging narrative, and iconic lines have ensured that Jerry Maguire remains a longstanding favorite among comedy-drama enthusiasts.

  • Love Actually
    14
    Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
    279 votes

    Love Actually, a beloved British comedy-drama written and directed by Richard Curtis, charmingly explores the trials, tribulations, and joys experienced by various interconnected individuals in the lead-up to Christmas. With its sweeping ensemble cast, which includes Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, and Colin Firth, the film weaves together multiple storylines, each exploring different facets of love, from romantic and familial love to friendship and unrequited yearnings. As a heartwarming and emotionally resonant film, Love Actually has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences and remains a timeless classic, particularly cherished during the festive season.

  • Almost Famous
    15
    Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
    226 votes

    Almost Famous, an evocative and semi-autobiographical comedy-drama directed by Cameron Crowe, follows the coming-of-age journey of aspiring music journalist William Miller, played by Patrick Fugit, as he embarks on a life-changing tour with a fictional rock band during the early 1970s. The stellar cast, featuring Billy Crudup as band leader Russell Hammond and Kate Hudson in her iconic role as groupie Penny Lane, brings both humor and depth to this deeply personal story based on Crowe's own experiences, garnering multiple accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The film's nuanced exploration of fame, youthful ambition, and human connection, coupled with its memorable and endearing characters, has helped Almost Famous earn its status as a revered and enduring comedy-drama.

  • Dazed and Confused
    16
    Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Sasha Jenson
    180 votes

    Dazed and Confused, an iconic comedy-drama directed by Richard Linklater, provides an engrossing and nostalgic portrayal of the last day of school in a small Texas town during the 1970s, where a group of high school students indulge in various forms of self-discovery, mischief, and celebration. With an ensemble cast of up-and-coming actors, including Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck, the film skillfully weaves themes of adolescent rebellion, camaraderie, and the anxieties of grappling with one's future. Dazed and Confused has enjoyed a cult following due to its nuanced characterizations and stellar performances, earning its place among the greatest coming-of-age comedy-drama movies.

  • City Slickers
    17
    Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno Kirby
    147 votes

    City Slickers, a delightful and adventurous comedy-drama directed by Ron Underwood, tells the story of three friends, embodied by Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, and Bruno Kirby, who embark on a cattle drive adventure as a means to rediscover themselves and find purpose in their lives. Alongside an unforgettable performance by Jack Palance as the tough but wise cowboy Curly, who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, the movie masterfully combines humor, personal growth, and camaraderie to create a wholesome cinematic experience. Through its brilliant performances, engaging narrative, and relatable themes, City Slickers has secured its place as a beloved and celebrated comedy-drama, forever cherished by moviegoers of all ages.

  • Juno
    18
    Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
    355 votes

    Juno, a poignant and charming comedy-drama directed by Jason Reitman, follows the life of the eponymous character, a quirky and lovable pregnant teenager, played by the talented Elliot Page, who decides to place her unborn child for adoption. Alongside a charming and beloved cast, including Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, and Jason Bateman, the film tackles difficult themes with humor and warmth, resonating with audiences and garnering a multitude of accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Juno's refreshingly offbeat take on adolescence, family relationships, and the bittersweet nature of growing up has cemented it among the essential comedy-dramas in contemporary cinema.

  • Pretty in Pink
    19
    Molly Ringwald, Jon Cryer, Andrew McCarthy
    180 votes

    Pretty in Pink, a quintessential coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Howard Deutch and penned by John Hughes, depicts the story of Andie Walsh, played by the ever-charming Molly Ringwald, a high school senior from a working-class background who falls for the wealthy and popular Blane McDonough, portrayed by Andrew McCarthy. Alongside its engaging exploration of love, friendship, and the struggles of social class, the film boasts an outstanding cast, including a standout performance by Jon Cryer as Andie's eccentric best friend, Duckie. The compelling relationships, witty dialogue, and unforgettable fashion moments present in Pretty in Pink have secured the film's everlasting appeal, marking it as a true classic of the 1980s.

  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
    20
    Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst
    315 votes

    Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, an extraordinary and visionary comedy-drama directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, immerses its audience in the minds of Joel Barish, masterfully portrayed by Jim Carrey, and his former lover Clementine Kruczynski, played by Kate Winslet, as they undergo a memory-erasing procedure to forget one another. Combining an ingenious narrative with stunning visual effects, the film eloquently explores themes of love, regret, and the impermanence of memory, and has garnered numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The captivating performances of its talented cast and the sublime storytelling have ensured Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind remains a classic among comedy-drama enthusiasts.

  • As Good as It Gets
    21
    Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear
    294 votes

    As Good as It Gets, a masterful comedy-drama directed by James L. Brooks, tells the story of a misanthropic, obsessive-compulsive novelist, Melvin Udall, portrayed by Jack Nicholson, who forms unlikely bonds with a single mother (Helen Hunt) and a gay artist (Greg Kinnear). Their transformative journey toward compassion and understanding presents a captivating exploration of human nature, resulting in critical acclaim and accolades, including Academy Award wins for Nicholson and Hunt. Not only does As Good as It Gets showcase the powerful performances of its talented cast, but it also solidifies its place among the finest comedy-dramas in film history.

  • Edward Scissorhands
    22
    Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest
    302 votes

    Edward Scissorhands, a visually imaginative and whimsical comedy-drama directed by Tim Burton, depicts the unique tale of Edward, a gentle, artificial humanoid, played by Johnny Depp, whose hands are an assembly of scissors, as he discovers the beauty and pain of human life after being adopted by a suburban family. Boasting an impressive supporting cast, including Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, and Anthony Michael Hall, the film endearingly explores themes of love, isolation, and acceptance with Burton's signature blend of humor and melancholy. Edward Scissorhands has since become a beloved cult classic, etching itself into the hearts and minds of comedy-drama enthusiasts over the decades.

  • Patch Adams
    23
    Robin Williams, Daniel London, Monica Potter
    198 votes

    Patch Adams, a touching and inspiring comedy-drama directed by Tom Shadyac, narrates the life of Hunter "Patch" Adams, played by the incomparable Robin Williams, a medical student who revolutionizes patient care with his unconventional methods and unwavering belief in the healing power of laughter. The film, which features a remarkable supporting cast, including Monica Potter, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Bob Gunton, perfectly balances the heartfelt emotions and humor that accompany Patch's incredible journey, inspiring and captivating audiences. Over the years, Patch Adams has established itself as a comforting favorite among comedy-drama enthusiasts, earning its place in pop culture through the timeless message of hope, empathy, and the indomitable human spirit.

  • In Bruges
    24
    Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes
    177 votes

    In Bruges, a dark yet heartfelt comedy-drama directed by Martin McDonagh, follows the story of two Irish hitmen, Ray, played by Colin Farrell, and Ken, portrayed by Brendan Gleeson, as they await orders from their ruthless boss Harry Waters (Ralph Fiennes), laying low in the historical city of Bruges, Belgium. Complex, witty and filled with moments of heartrending vulnerability, the film delivers an unforgettable experience, effectively combining honest human drama with unexpected humor. Largely attributable to the exceptional performances of its cast and an Academy Award-nominated screenplay, In Bruges" has earned itself a strong following among comedy-drama devotees.

  • Breakfast at Tiffany's
    25
    Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal
    198 votes

    Breakfast at Tiffany's, a charming and stylish comedy-drama helmed by director Blake Edwards and based on Truman Capote's novella, stars the iconic Audrey Hepburn as the exuberant and enigmatic Holly Golightly, a young New York socialite whose life becomes interwoven with her new neighbor, a struggling writer named Paul Varjak, portrayed by George Peppard. With its engaging characters and elegant cinematography, the movie captures Holly's spirited search for true love and happiness amid a seemingly superficial existence, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. The brilliant performances from Hepburn and Peppard, the immortalizations of several memorable and poignant moments, and the enduring appeal of its narrative have secured Breakfast at Tiffany's as an evergreen masterpiece in comedy-drama history.

  • The Upside
    26
    Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston, Nicole Kidman
    210 votes

    The Upside, a heartwarming comedy-drama directed by Neil Burger, follows the unlikely friendship forged between a wealthy quadriplegic man, played by Bryan Cranston, and an ex-convict, portrayed by Kevin Hart, who becomes his caregiver. Through their shared experiences, heartfelt moments, and delightful humor, the film—also featuring the talented Nicole Kidman—resonates deeply with audiences, inspiring them with a message of empathy, redemption, and the power of human connection. The Upside has earned its reputation as a popular and well-received comedy-drama, making a mark on the genre through its combination of unforgettable performances and a moving narrative that strikes an emotional chord with viewers.

  • Big Fish
    27
    Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup
    200 votes

    Big Fish, an enchanting and visually stunning comedy-drama directed by Tim Burton, delves into the tall tales of Edward Bloom, played by both Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney, an imaginative storyteller whose fantastical life experiences begin to blur the lines between fact and fiction for his estranged son. The film, which seamlessly intertwines heartwarming humor and poignant drama, showcases the extraordinary supporting cast, including Jessica Lange, Alison Lohman, and Danny DeVito, and has been praised for its dazzling visuals and magical storytelling. As an emotional and captivating exploration of father-son relationships, truth, and the power of stories, Big Fish holds a cherished place in the heart of comedy-drama aficionados.

  • The Princess Diaries
    28
    Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Héctor Elizondo
    197 votes

    The Princess Diaries, an enchanting comedy-drama directed by Garry Marshall, revolves around the life of awkward high school student Mia Thermopolis, played by Anne Hathaway, as she discovers her true identity as the heir to the throne of fictional Genovia, mentored by her regal grandmother Queen Clarisse, portrayed by Julie Andrews. Endearing, humorous, and engaging, the film captures the essence of self-discovery, personal growth, and the responsibilities that come with power, invoking a sense of nostalgia for its target audience. Through the delightful chemistry shared by its talented cast members and its undeniable charm, The Princess Diaries has solidified its place among the cherished comedy-dramas of the 21st century.

  • The Terminal
    29
    Tom Hanks, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stanley Tucci
    208 votes

    The Terminal, a heartwarming and humorous comedy-drama directed by Steven Spielberg, tells the story of Viktor Navorski, portrayed by Tom Hanks, a man from the fictitious nation of Krakozhia who becomes trapped in New York City's JFK International Airport when his citizenship is suddenly rendered invalid. The film, which features an exceptional supporting cast including Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stanley Tucci, and Chi McBride, masterfully exemplifies the enduring human spirit through a blend of genuine romance, laughter, and resilience. With its memorable performances, well-crafted narrative, and pleasant charm, The Terminal continues to remain a popular and endearing addition to the comedy-drama genre.

  • Boogie Nights
    30
    Mark Wahlberg, Burt Reynolds, Julianne Moore
    179 votes

    Boogie Nights, a gritty, engrossing, and evocative comedy-drama directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, delves into the life of aspiring adult film star Eddie Adams, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg, as he navigates the burgeoning and dynamic world of the pornography industry. Featuring an exemplary supporting cast, including Burt Reynolds, Julianne Moore, and John C. Reilly, the film achieves an artful balance of compelling drama and dark humor, earning three Academy Award nominations and widespread critical acclaim. Its authenticity, riveting narrative, and genuine human emotions have elevated Boogie Nights to the status of a classic among comedy-drama films.