If you’re a fan of a good laugh mixed with your horror – these comedy horror movies will be right up your alley!
Scary Movie (2000)
Scary Movie (2000) is a parody on classic slasher films, blending horror with comedy in a way that keeps you laughing and cringing. Directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans and starring Anna Faris, Regina Hall, and Marlon Wayans, this movie pokes fun at the clichés of the horror genre.
You’ll find exaggerated characters and over-the-top scenarios as the film hilariously mimics well-known slasher movies. The plot revolves around a group of teenagers who accidentally hit a man with their car and, a year later, are stalked by a mysterious killer.
From start to finish, the film keeps you entertained with its absurd comedy and outrageous parody moments.
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
In Shaun of the Dead, you find yourself immersed in a world where the mundane lives of Shaun, played by Simon Pegg, and his friend Ed, played by Nick Frost, are turned upside down by a zombie apocalypse.
Directed by Edgar Wright, this horror comedy expertly blends laughs with some genuine zombie scares. The film features a cast that delivers stellar performances, ensuring that each character feels real and engaging.
With its sharp wit and clever homage to zombie classics, Shaun of the Dead keeps you entertained from start to finish while also delivering a surprisingly heartfelt story. It’s a perfect example of what a great horror comedy should be.
Tucker and Dale vs. Evil (2010)
Tucker and Dale vs. Evil blends horror and comedy seamlessly. Directed by Eli Craig, this 2010 film depicts two likable hillbillies, Tucker and Dale, who head to their cabin in the woods for a relaxing vacation.
Chaos ensues when a group of college students mistakes them for crazed killers. Misunderstandings lead to a series of comical yet gory events.
The film satirizes slasher tropes, poking fun at horror clichés. Its humor and scares make it a standout in the horror-comedy genre. From jump scares to laugh-out-loud moments, Tucker and Dale keep you entertained throughout their wild misadventure.
Evil Dead II (1987)
Evil Dead II, directed by Sam Raimi, stands as a classic in the horror-comedy genre. Bruce Campbell stars as Ash Williams, who you follow on an unforgettable journey. Ash heads to a remote cabin with his girlfriend, only to face demonic forces.
The movie brilliantly combines slapstick humor with horror elements. One minute you’re laughing at the absurdity of Ash fighting off a possessed tree, and the next you’re caught in the intense atmosphere.
Raimi’s directing style shines through with inventive camera angles and stop-motion effects. If you appreciate a mix of scares and laughs, this one’s a must-watch and an amazing 80s horror movie.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Ghostbusters (1984) mixes horror and comedy, making it a standout in the genre. Directed by Ivan Reitman, the film tells the story of three parapsychologists in New York City who start a ghost removal business.
You can’t deny the charm of Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis. Their on-screen chemistry is incredible, creating a blend of humor and spooky moments with iconic monsters.
New York City provides the perfect backdrop for ghostbusting adventures. From haunted hotels to the streets swarming with specters, the city’s energy and spirit elevate the movie’s appeal.
Ghostbusters captures your imagination with its unique story and memorable scenes.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Beetlejuice is a 1988 horror comedy directed by Tim Burton. The movie stars Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis as a couple who die and become ghosts. They find themselves being haunted by a new family moving into their beloved home.
In a desperate attempt to get rid of the new occupants, they enlist the help of Betelgeuse. Played by Michael Keaton, Betelgeuse is a mischievous and absurd bio-exorcist ghost. His antics and peculiar methods lead to a series of hilarious and spooky situations.
The film blends horror and comedy effortlessly, creating memorable scenes and characters. Its unique style and bizarre humor make it a standout in the comedy horror genre.
Young Frankenstein (1974)
You’ve got to love Mel Brooks for his genius take on horror comedy with Young Frankenstein. This film, starring Gene Wilder, Marty Feldman, Madeline Kahn, and Peter Boyle, offers a hilarious spoof of classic horror movies.
In this 70s horror movie, an American grandson of the infamous scientist tries to prove his family isn’t crazy. Invited to Transylvania, he discovers his grandfather’s process for reanimating dead bodies.
With its black and white cinematography, the film nails the vintage horror vibe. It beautifully parodies Mary Shelley’s tale while providing lots of laughs.
What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
“What We Do in the Shadows” is a mockumentary horror comedy directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi. It follows three vampires navigating the complexities of modern life.
You witness vampires Viago, Deacon, and Vladislav dealing with mundane issues like paying rent and flatmate conflicts.
With laugh-out-loud moments and clever scenarios, it cleverly blends horror and comedy, creating a uniquely entertaining experience.
Zombieland (2009)
Zombieland is a wild ride through a world overrun by zombies. You meet a shy student played by Jesse Eisenberg. He teams up with Woody Harrelson’s character, a tough guy searching for the last Twinkie on Earth. Along the way, they join forces with Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin, two sisters with their own goals.
What makes this movie stand out is its brilliant mix of horror and comedy. The humor balances out the terror, making it fun and engaging. It’s a journey across a zombie-filled America that blends action and laughs perfectly. The quirky rules for surviving zombies and the hilarious interactions make Zombieland a must-watch.
Army of Darkness (1992)
In Army of Darkness, Bruce Campbell returns as Ash Williams. He’s accidentally transported back to the Middle Ages where he must retrieve the Necronomicon to get back home. Directed by Sam Raimi, this horror comedy combines slapstick humor, scary skeletons, and over-the-top action.
Ash battles hordes of the undead, armed with his trusty chainsaw and boomstick. The quirky medieval setting adds a unique twist to the Evil Dead series. Campbell’s performance blends heroic bravado with comedic antics, making this film both hilarious and entertaining.
Sam Raimi’s direction brings high-energy scenes and inventive special effects, keeping you engaged throughout.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
An American Werewolf in London, directed by John Landis, is a standout in horror comedy. You follow two American backpackers, David and Jack, who find themselves in a nightmarish situation while touring Britain.
David ends up in a hospital, grappling with bizarre nightmares after a werewolf attack. The movie blends comedy and horror perfectly, creating both chilling and funny moments.
Landis’s direction brings out the contrast between humor and horror brilliantly. The film’s practical effects, including the iconic transformation scene, add a visceral touch.
If you enjoy a mix of frights and laughs, this one’s worth your time.
Gremlins (1984)
Gremlins (1984) offers a unique blend of comedy and horror. Directed by Joe Dante, this film is a rollercoaster of mischievous monsters unleashed by a young man who breaks three important rules regarding his new pet.
You get a mix of satire and genuine scares as the small town gets overrun by havoc-wreaking gremlins. Each scene balances humor with fright in an unforgettable way.
Hoyt Axton, Zach Galligan, and Phoebe Cates deliver memorable performances. The voice of Gizmo, provided by Howie Mandel, adds a playful and endearing touch to this wild ride.
The Return of the Living Dead (1985)
Ever thought about what would happen if two bumbling employees accidentally released a deadly gas in a medical supply warehouse? In The Return of the Living Dead, that’s exactly what happens, causing the dead to rise as flesh-craving zombies. Directed by Dan O’Bannon in his comedic horror debut, it blends horror and laughs seamlessly.
The movie stars Thom Matthews and James Karen, playing the hapless employees who trigger the chaos. You’ll find a mix of 1980s punk aesthetics, over-the-top death scenes, and unforgettable zombie screams. Known for its humor and horror, it stands out as a must-watch in the horror comedy genre.
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
This movie is a great mix of horror and comedy. Directed by Drew Goddard and produced by Joss Whedon, it features a group of college students who head to a remote cabin.
Things quickly go wrong as they find themselves dealing with sinister monsters. The film cleverly plays with typical horror tropes, giving you plenty of scares and laughs.
Characters range from the jock to the brainy nerd, keeping it engaging. The plot has some unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. Overall, it’s a fun, thrilling ride that horror comedy fans will enjoy.
Re-Animator (1985)
Re-Animator, directed by Stuart Gordon, brings a unique blend of horror and comedy. This cult classic follows Herbert West, a medical student who discovers a reagent that can reanimate dead bodies.
Jeffrey Combs stars as Herbert West, giving a memorable performance that captures both the madness and brilliance of his character. With a mix of suspense, humor, and gore, the film keeps you engaged throughout.
The movie includes zombies and a lot of unexpected twists. It’s both thrilling and darkly funny, making it a standout in the horror comedy genre.
Barbara Crampton and Bruce Abbott also deliver strong performances, adding depth to the chaotic narrative.
Dead Alive (1992)
Dead Alive, known as Braindead outside North America, is a wild ride directed by Peter Jackson. This zombie comedy horror movie combines gory scenes with comedic moments.
The story centers around Lionel, a young man whose mother gets bitten by a Sumatran rat-monkey. She transforms into a zombie, causing chaos and turning others into zombies too.
In this 1992 film, gory practical effects are used to create over-the-top scenes. One memorable moment includes Lionel wielding a lawnmower against the undead. It’s messy yet oddly humorous, making it a standout in the genre.
Slither (2006)
In 2006’s Slither, you find yourself drawn into the story of a small town besieged by an alien invasion. This film blends horror and comedy, creating an experience that keeps you both laughing and on the edge of your seat.
The invasion starts when a malevolent parasite crashes to Earth and begins infecting the townsfolk, turning them into grotesque monsters. As the infection spreads, the film dives deeper into chaos, balancing terrifying moments with amusing banter.
Nathan Fillion and Elizabeth Banks lead the cast, bringing charm and wit to their roles. Their chemistry adds a relatable touch, making the outlandish scenario surprisingly engaging.
Directed by James Gunn, Slither remains a must-watch in the horror comedy genre.
Closing Thoughts
There are tons of amazing comedy horror movies but I have to say – Scary Movie is my favorite.
Looking for more horror movie recommendations? Check out these movies!