10 Must-Watch Comedy Films from 1995

      Get ready for plenty of laughter with these ten must-see comedies from 1995…

      When life hands you lemons and you’re unsure how to make lemonade, sometimes a good comedy is just the remedy you need. Enter the light-hearted comedy film, where you can expect to laugh for almost 90 minutes straight. Or you might opt for Slam Dunk Ernest.

      Unfortunately, many feel that comedy films are no longer produced as frequently or aren't as entertaining as in the past. This genre is often considered somewhat irrelevant in the realm of cinema today. Once a king of big screen comedy, Adam Sandler has recently pivoted to delivering a plethora of straight-to-Netflix specials, including his much-anticipated sequel, Happy Gilmore 2. The original film firmly established his box office credibility, while this follow-up reflects the current standing of both Sandler and the genre.

      Looking back 30 years, we recall a time when the likes of Sandler, Jim Carrey, and others became icons in the world of comedy and major box office draws, providing comedy fans with a multitude of options. Here are ten essential comedies from 1995…

      Billy Madison

      Speaking of Sandler, before he hit it big with his golfing comedy the following year, he first made waves in 1995 with Billy Madison. While Rodney Dangerfield tackled a similar concept a decade earlier in Back to School, Sandler’s Madison perfectly honed his man-child character, portraying an uneducated slacker. He finds himself back in elementary school, needing to pass classes to inherit his family business.

      Imagine the humorous scene of Sandler squeezed into small desks alongside little children, often outsmarted by them. Amidst this, he also falls for one of the teachers and gets into a series of funny predicaments. With its chaotic humor, visual gags, and slapstick antics, this film showcases Sandler at his best, young and lovable in his foolishness. A standout moment comes from Chris Farley’s brief yet memorable cameo.

      Tommy Boy

      As for Farley, he was part of a new generation of SNL comedians becoming movie stars, and there were high expectations for him just as there were for Sandler. Tommy Boy marked Farley’s first significant lead role, teaming him up with David Spade in a hilariously mismatched duo. Farley exudes over-the-top energy, clashing with Spade’s dry, uninterested character.

      The success of Tommy Boy hinges on the chemistry of its leads and the ridiculous comedy, still beloved today for its genuine sincerity. Although Tommy is a comical fool, he’s a decent person, and audiences root for him to succeed and keep his family business afloat.

      Friday

      Ice Cube just released a version of War of the Worlds that was panned even worse than one I co-wrote, titled War of the Worlds: The Attack (which is actually quite entertaining, I assure you). However, 30 years ago, Cube displayed surprising talent in comedy with the cult hit, Friday. Alongside Chris Tucker, they portray a couple of slackers who need quick cash to avoid the wrath of a formidable gang leader (brilliantly played by the late Tiny Lister).

      Tucker and Cube have great on-screen chemistry, and the film stands out among other black-led comedies of its time, thanks to memorable performances and comedic misadventures. It's fair to claim that the incomparable John Witherspoon steals every scene he’s in, prompting me to watch his highlight reels from Friday on YouTube frequently.

      Mallrats

      After Clerks' success, Kevin Smith received a little more funding and color to create Mallrats. While met with decent but unremarkable reviews, it didn't hit as unexpectedly as Clerks.

      Over time, its irreverent humor and slice-of-life appeal have helped it gain a devoted following among Smith fans. As a part of the Jay and Silent Bob universe, it fits in well with the others but maintains its unique charm. The cast of rising stars delivers solid performances, and its enduring appeal lies in its comfort as a movie you can watch multiple times, much like Smith’s other quality work.

      Welcome to the Dollhouse

      Todd Solondz’s film seems to be somewhat underrated and overlooked. Featuring quirky characters and an awkwardly nerdy protagonist, it pairs nicely with 2004’s Napoleon Dynamite.

      The style, pacing, and humor of Welcome to the Dollhouse may not be for everyone (similar to Napoleon Dynamite), but for those who appreciate it, there's a lot to enjoy. Heather Matarazzo’s endearingly awkward portrayal of Dawn makes this coming-of-age comedy a delightful experience. It's a quintessential outsider comedy that beautifully captures its time and setting.

      Clueless

      No film from 1995 perhaps encapsulates the spirit of the time as effectively as Clueless. It not only represents the era but also the broader media depictions of it. Full of caricatures depicting classic