A Glean movie guide
Laugh-Out-Loud Rom-Coms
More ha-ha, less boo-hoo.
Romantic comedies that prioritize big laughs and sharp wit over sappy sentiment.
Handpicked for this guide
The movie list
- 01
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
A high-energy breakup comedy packed with physical gags and a brilliant ensemble cast.
When actress Sarah Marshall dumps aspiring musician Peter Bretter for rock star Aldous Snow, Peter's world comes crashing down. His best friend Brian suggests that Peter should get away from everything and to fly off to Hawaii to escape all his problems. After arriving in Hawaii and meeting the beautiful receptionist Rachel Jansen, Peter is shocked to see not only Aldous in Hawaii, but also Sarah.
- 02
Bridesmaids
A hilarious look at wedding-season stress defined by its fearless physical comedy and standout performances.
Annie's life is a mess. But when she finds out her lifetime best friend is engaged, she simply must serve as Lillian's maid of honor. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals. With one chance to get it perfect, she’ll show Lillian and her bridesmaids just how far you’ll go for someone you love.
- 03
Palm Springs
A high-concept time-loop comedy that keeps the jokes coming as fast as its clever sci-fi twists.
When carefree Nyles and reluctant maid of honor Sarah have a chance encounter at a Palm Springs wedding, things get complicated when they find themselves unable to escape the venue, themselves, or each other.
- 04
The 40-Year-Old Virgin
An improv-heavy classic that balances a sweet heart with some of the decade's most iconic slapstick scenes.
Andy Stitzer has a pleasant life with a nice apartment and a job stamping invoices at an electronics store. But at age 40, there's one thing Andy hasn't done, and it's really bothering his sex-obsessed male co-workers: Andy is still a virgin. Determined to help Andy get laid, the guys make it their mission to de-virginize him. But it all seems hopeless until Andy meets small business owner Trish, a single mom.
- 05
Rye Lane
A visually vibrant and witty stroll through South London fueled by sharp, naturalistic banter.
Two twenty-somethings, both reeling from bad break-ups, connect over the course of an eventful day in South London – helping each other deal with their nightmare exes, and potentially restoring their faith in romance.
- 06
Game Night
A relentless, high-stakes comedy that finds constant humor in the chaos of a competitive relationship.
Max and Annie's weekly game night gets kicked up a notch when Max's brother Brooks arranges a murder mystery party -- complete with fake thugs and federal agents. So when Brooks gets kidnapped, it's all supposed to be part of the game. As the competitors set out to solve the case, they start to learn that neither the game nor Brooks are what they seem to be. The friends soon find themselves in over their heads as each twist leads to another unexpected turn over the course of one chaotic night.
- 07
When Harry Met Sally...
The gold standard for witty romantic dialogue and perfectly executed comedic set pieces.
Sex always gets in the way of friendships between men and women. At least, that's what Harry Burns believes. So when Harry meets Sally Albright and a deep friendship blossoms between them, Harry's determined not to let his attraction to Sally destroy it. But when a night of weakness ends in a morning of panic, can the pair avoid succumbing to Harry's fears by remaining friends and admitting they just might be the perfect match for each other?
- 08
Always Be My Maybe
A modern rom-com featuring sharp satirical elements and one of the most memorable celebrity cameos in years.
Reunited after 15 years, famous chef Sasha and hometown musician Marcus feel the old sparks of attraction, but struggle to adapt to each other's worlds.
- 09
Fire Island
A clever, modern spin on classic tropes filled with satirical humor and fast-paced ensemble dynamics.
A group of queer best friends gather in the Fire Island Pines for their annual week of love and laughter. However, desires, dramas, drink and drugs push their bonds to the limits.
- 10
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
A stylish comedy that weaves multiple storylines together with sharp banter and great situational irony.
Cal Weaver is living the American dream. He has a good job, a beautiful house, great children and a beautiful wife, named Emily. Cal's seemingly perfect life unravels, however, when he learns that Emily has been unfaithful and wants a divorce. Over 40 and suddenly single, Cal is adrift in the fickle world of dating. Enter, Jacob Palmer, a self-styled player who takes Cal under his wing and teaches him how to be a hit with the ladies.
- 11
Groundhog Day
A masterclass in cynical wit that uses its repetitive premise for increasingly brilliant comedic payoffs.
A cynical TV weatherman, along with his idealistic producer and his sardonic cameraman, is sent to report on Groundhog Day in the small town of Punxsutawney, where he finds himself repeating the same day over and over.
- 12
The Big Sick
A smart, observational comedy that finds genuine laughs in the friction between family and culture.
Pakistan-born comedian Kumail Nanjiani and grad student Emily Gardner fall in love but struggle as their cultures clash. When Emily contracts a mysterious illness, Kumail finds himself forced to face her feisty parents, his family's expectations, and his true feelings.