10 Comedy Films from 1995 That You Must See

      Prepare for a good laugh with these ten must-see comedy films from 1995...

      When life hands you lemons and you don’t know how to convert them into lemonade, sometimes a comedy film is the perfect remedy to uplift your spirits. Enter the world of comedy movies, where you're likely to spend around 90 minutes laughing until your sides hurt. Alternatively, you could always choose to watch Slam Dunk Ernest.

      Unfortunately for many, the frequency and quality of comedy films have diminished over the years. This genre is often viewed as largely irrelevant in the realm of cinema. Once a titan of comedy, Adam Sandler has recently been rebranded as a prolific creator of straight-to-Netflix specials, including his long-anticipated sequel, Happy Gilmore 2. The original film solidified his box office appeal, and this new installment reflects where both Sandler and the comedy genre currently stand.

      Looking back three decades to a time when the likes of Sandler and Jim Carrey led the pack as they became icons of the genre, big-screen comedy fans were treated to a wealth of options. Here are ten essential comedies from 1995…

      Billy Madison

      Speaking of Sandler, before his massive success with the golfing comedy the following year, he broke through in 1995 with Billy Madison. While Rodney Dangerfield had touched on a similar theme a decade earlier in Back to School, Sandler truly perfected his man-child persona, portraying an undereducated slacker. He finds himself returning to elementary school, required to pass his classes to inherit his family business.

      Prepare for the amusing scenes of Sandler squeezed into tiny chairs beside young kids, outsmarted by little troublemakers. During his journey, he develops feelings for one of his teachers and encounters numerous hilarious situations. With its scattergun humor, cringeworthy gags, and physical comedy, the film embodies the formula Sandler often adheres to, showcased here at a high point in his youthful, endearing folly. Notably, there's a fantastic cameo from Chris Farley that shines bright.

      Tommy Boy

      As for Farley, he was part of the new wave of SNL comedians transitioning to movie stardom, and expectations were high for him, just as they were for Sandler. Tommy Boy marked Farley's first significant lead role, teaming him up in a comically mismatched duo with David Spade. Farley's energetic and clumsy antics clash brilliantly with Spade's dry, disinterested character.

      The enduring appeal of Tommy Boy lies in the chemistry between its leads and its outrageous goofy comedy, which also balances its silliness with sincere heartfelt moments. Although Tommy may be a comedic fool, he’s a genuinely good person, and you’ll find yourself rooting for him to succeed and save his family’s business.

      Friday

      Ice Cube, who recently released a version of War of the Worlds that received even worse reviews than my co-written version, showcased his comedic talent 30 years ago in the cult classic, Friday. He teams up with Chris Tucker as two slackers needing quick cash to escape the wrath of a dangerous gang leader, played magnificently by the late Tiny Lister.

      Cube and Tucker have excellent comedic chemistry, making the film stand out among other black-led comedies of its time due to its superb performances and humorous mishaps. The incomparable John Witherspoon steals every scene he’s in, prompting me to revisit his memorable moments from Friday on YouTube.

      Mallrats

      Following the success of Clerks, Kevin Smith received a slightly larger budget to shoot Mallrats in color. Although it garnered solid yet unremarkable reviews, it didn’t deliver the unexpected indie shock that Clerks once did, which was never its intention.

      Over time, its irreverent charm has solidified its legacy, becoming a favorite among Smith fans. Part of the Jay and Silent Bob universe, it fits well alongside the others while offering its own distinctive appeal. The cast, comprising then-emerging stars, delivers strong performances. Its lasting appeal lies in how it withstands multiple viewings, making it a quintessential comfort movie, much like Smith's other notable works.

      Welcome to the Dollhouse

      Todd Solondz’s film seems to remain somewhat underrated and underappreciated. With its quirky characters, an awkward protagonist, and a unique style, it pairs nicely with 2004’s Napoleon Dynamite.

      The pacing, humor, and overall vibe of Welcome to the Dollhouse may not be for everyone, but for those who connect with it, there is much to enjoy. Heather Matarazzo’s portrayal of Dawn adds an endearing awkwardness, making this coming-of-age comedy truly delightful. It perfectly embodies the outsider experience of its time and place.

      Clueless

      More than any other film from 1995, Clueless truly captured the spirit of the era. Rather than just encapsulating the time, it also represented the broader media depictions of it. With exaggerated high school archetypes, Alicia Silver