When it comes to humor, the French may not be the first to come to mind. However, this list of the most hilarious French comedy movies proves that they can definitely crack you up. Get ready for a wild ride with these unique and innovative takes on the comedy genre. This ranking is based on the opinions of die-hard fans of French cinema, so you know these movies are guaranteed to make you laugh out loud.
One absolute gem of a French comedy film is “La Cage aux Folles,” directed by the brilliant Edouard Molinaro. It tells the tale of a gay couple who go to extraordinary lengths to conceal their lifestyle from their son’s fiancée and her parents. This film later inspired the hilarious Hollywood remake, “The Birdcage,” featuring the comedic genius of Robin Williams and Nathan Lane.
Another standout film is “Delicatessen,” co-directed by the masters of quirkiness, Marc Caro and Jean-Pierre Jeunet. This dark comedy takes place in a dystopian future where human meat is served in a deli. Jeunet also dazzles us with his light-hearted and enchanting creation, “Amelie.”
Got any favorite French comedy movies? Whether they’re vintage classics or exciting new releases, make sure to share the love for the films that tickle your funny bone. And don’t forget to explore our curated collection of French movies on Netflix.
Stay tuned for updates on the latest French comedies hitting the scene and climbing up the ranks. It’s a non-stop laughter extravaganza!
1. The Intouchables
An unexpected bond forms between a rich quadriplegic, François Cluzet, and his newly freed caregiver, Omar Sy. This unlikely friendship blossoms amidst their contrasting backgrounds. François, who hails from a life of privilege, finds solace and companionship in Omar, who has recently served time in jail.
Released: 2011
Directed by: Olivier Nakache, Eric Toledano
Actors: François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny
2. Le Dîner des Cons
Hey, have you heard of this awesome French comedy film called Le Dîner de Cons? It’s also known as The Dinner Game in the United States. This gem was written and directed by the talented Francis Veber back in 1998. What’s interesting is that Veber actually adapted his own play, Le Dîner de Cons, into this hilarious movie.
Released: 1998
Directed by: Francis Veber
Actors: Alexandra Vandernoot, Jacques Villeret, Thierry Lhermitte
3. The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob
The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob is a hilarious comedy film from 1973, directed by the talented Gérard Oury. It features the brilliant performances of Louis de Funès and Claude Giraud, who bring the characters to life. This French-Italian collaboration is a delightful cinematic experience that will leave you in stitches.
Released: 1973
Directed by: Gérard Oury
Actors: Louis de Funès, Marcel Dalio, Miou-Miou
4. The Closet
The Closet is a hilarious French comedy film from 2001, written and directed by the talented Francis Veber. Brace yourself for a wild ride as you dive into the story of a man who pulls off an outrageous scheme – pretending to be gay – all in a desperate attempt to hold onto his job. But trust me, the outcome is anything but predictable!”
“In this comedic gem, we follow our protagonist as he navigates through a series of absurd and totally unexpected consequences. Get ready to laugh out loud as you witness the insane situations he finds himself in, all because of this unconventional plan.”
“With Veber’s clever writing and direction, The Closet delivers non-stop entertainment and keeps you on the edge of your seat. You won’t be able to resist being drawn into this unique and comical tale. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience!
Released: 2001
Directed by: Francis Veber
Actors: Gérard Depardieu, Daniel Auteuil, Jean Rochefort
5. La Cage aux Folles
La Cage aux Folles is a film that came out in 1978, based on a play from 1973 called La Cage aux Folles by Jean Poiret. It was directed by Édouard Molinaro and features Ugo Tognazzi and Michel Serrault. Interestingly, in Italian it goes by the name Il vizietto.
Released: 1978
Directed by: Édouard Molinaro
Actors: Ugo Tognazzi, Michel Serrault, Michel Galabru
6. Mon Oncle
Mon Oncle, a film comedy directed by Jacques Tati in 1958, stands out as his first venture into color cinema. This delightful film received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, a Special Prize at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival, and the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Foreign Language Film, surpassing the recognition garnered by Tati’s other cinematic creations.
The heart of the story revolves around Monsieur Hulot, an endearing yet socially awkward character, and his charmingly futile struggle against postwar France’s fascination with modern architecture, mechanical efficiency, and consumerism. Like Tati’s other works, Mon Oncle relies heavily on visual comedy, employing color and lighting to assist in conveying the narrative. Dialogue in the film is intentionally faint, serving more as a sound effect rather than a prominent feature. The soft murmurs of heated arguments and casual conversations blend harmoniously with other sounds and the physical movements of the characters, heightening the comedic impact. The intricate soundtrack also utilizes music to define different settings, including a lively musical theme that embodies Hulot’s world of comedic inefficiency and freedom.
Released: 1958
Directed by: Jacques Tati
Actors: Yvonne Arnaud, Jean-Pierre Zola, Jean-François Martial
7. The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe
The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe is a hilarious French comedy film from 1972. It was directed by Yves Robert and written by Francis Veber. The movie stars the talented Pierre Richard, Jean Rochefort, and Bernard Blier. Oh, and guess what? There’s even a sequel called Le Retour du Grand Blond, which came out in 1974.
By the way, did you know that this film was remade in English? Yep, it’s called The Man with One Red Shoe. So, if you’re into comedies and looking for a good laugh, you might want to check out these films. They’re sure to bring a smile to your face!
Released: 1972
Directed by: Yves Robert
Actors: Mireille Darc, Jean Rochefort, Bernard Blier
8. Welcome to the Sticks
Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis is a hilarious French comedy film from 2008. It was directed, co-written, and starred by the talented Dany Boon, alongside the talented Kad Merad and Zoé Félix.
This movie was a massive success in France, shattering numerous box office records. It burst onto the scene as the number one film at a whopping 793 locations. By 28 February 2010, it had already been enjoyed by an astonishing 20.5 million people in just 23 weeks. This incredible achievement surpassed the long-standing record previously held by the 1966 classic, La Grande Vadrouille.
Released: 2008
Directed by: Dany Boon
Actors: Kad Merad, Dany Boon, Michel Galabru
9. Amélie
The French film Amélie takes us on a journey through the life of Amélie Poulain, a timid waitress in Paris. She has a special way of looking at the world and decides to lend a hand to those she encounters, all while grappling with her own feelings of loneliness. Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet skillfully weaves together elements of romance and comedy, resulting in a captivating cinematic experience. The movie received high praise from critics, bagging the Best Film award at the European Film Awards and earning five Academy Award nominations. The storyline is a delightful maze of human connections, all set against the enchanting backdrop of Montmartre.
Released: 2001
Directed by: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Actors: Audrey Tautou, Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett
10. Asterix and Obelix Meet Cleapatra
Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra is a 2002 French film that serves as a sequel to the 1999 movie Asterix & Obelix Take On Caesar, both based on the beloved comic book Astérix et Cléopâtre by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. At the time of its release, it held the title of being the most expensive French movie ever made. This film is actually the second adaptation of the Asterix and Cleopatra story, with the first being an animated movie back in 1968.
Directed and written by Alain Chabat, the movie features a star-studded cast including Gérard Depardieu, Christian Clavier, Jamel Debbouze, Édouard Baer, Monica Bellucci, and Chabat himself. It was a co-production between French companies Katharina / Renn Productions, TF1 Film Productions, and German companies KC Medien and CP Medien AG. The film performed exceptionally well in France, selling a staggering 14,557,020 tickets.
What sets this live-action adaptation apart from others is its commitment to closely following the original comic book Astérix et Cléopatre. Unlike previous adaptations that incorporated elements from various Asterix books, this movie stays true to the source material.
The film received positive reviews, with an impressive 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 7 reviews.
Released: 2002
Directed by: Alain Chabat
Actors: Monica Bellucci, Gérard Depardieu, Diane Neal
11. Ruby & Quentin
Ruby & Quentin is a French comedy-crime caper film from 2003, and it was directed by Francis Veber. Interestingly, this movie gained popularity in China when it was dubbed in Northeastern Mandarin.
Released: 2003
Directed by: Francis Veber
Actors: Jean Reno, Gérard Depardieu, Leonor Varela
