Laughter is universally acknowledged as one of the best remedies for stress, and thankfully, Amazon Prime Video has made it incredibly easy to tap into joy and giggles at the click of a button. With an expansive catalog of smartly written, emotionally rich, and belly-achingly funny films, Prime Video serves up some of the best comedic content available on any streaming platform. Whether you're craving a fresh indie dramedy, a heartfelt romantic comedy, or sharp-edged satire, there's something to match every mood.
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Best Comedies on Amazon Prime Video to Watch Now
1. My Old Ass (2024)
Directed by Megan Park
Starring Maisy Stella, Aubrey Plaza, Percy Hynes White, Maddie Ziegler, Kerrice Brooks
"My Old Ass" may sound like a slapstick gag, but don’t be misled by the cheeky title. This Amazon Original is a surprisingly layered coming-of-age story that blends humor with profound self-reflection. The plot follows 18-year-old Elliot (played with delightful sincerity by Maisy Stella), who, during a psychedelic mushroom trip on her birthday, meets her 39-year-old future self—played by the ever-compelling Aubrey Plaza. Older Elliot warns her younger counterpart to avoid a boy named Chad, among other things, forcing the teen to confront major life decisions and personal truths about her future.
What sets "My Old Ass" apart from typical teen comedies is its emotional depth and grounded storytelling, thanks to Megan Park’s nuanced direction and writing. The performances are authentic, especially from Plaza and Stella, giving the film a warm, relatable edge. It’s a surreal, introspective, and at times hilariously awkward journey of self-discovery that encourages viewers to embrace the now while being mindful of the future.
2. The Big Sick (2017)
Directed by Michael Showalter
Starring Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Ray Romano, Holly Hunter
If you like your comedy with a healthy dose of emotional weight and real-life drama, "The Big Sick" hits all the right notes. Based on the true story of writers Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, this critically acclaimed rom-com deftly navigates the complexities of cultural identity, love, and family dynamics. Kumail stars as himself, a stand-up comedian who finds love with Emily (Zoe Kazan) just before she falls into a mysterious, life-threatening coma.
While the film is undeniably hilarious—thanks to razor-sharp dialogue and brilliant comedic timing from both leads and the stellar supporting cast—it also packs an emotional punch. Holly Hunter and Ray Romano are unforgettable as Emily’s parents, bringing both gravitas and wit. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, "The Big Sick" is heartfelt, honest, and above all, funny in a way that feels deeply human.
3. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
Directed by Nora Ephron
Starring Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Parker Posey, Jean Stapleton, Dave Chappelle, Steve Zahn, Greg Kinnear
For those longing for a nostalgic dive into the golden era of romantic comedies, "You’ve Got Mail" remains an unbeatable classic. Directed by rom-com maestro Nora Ephron, this 1998 gem brings together Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan—arguably one of the most beloved screen pairings of the '90s—for a witty, charming tale of online love and offline rivalry.
Set in a pre-Y2K Manhattan brimming with dial-up internet and AOL email alerts, the story follows Joe (Hanks) and Kathleen (Ryan), who are unknowingly falling for each other over the internet while competing as business rivals in the real world. Their complicated romance is filled with misunderstandings, snappy dialogue, and old-school charm. Adapted from the 1940 classic The Shop Around the Corner, this modern remake is more than just a love story; it’s a cultural snapshot that has aged with surprising grace. With over $250 million in box office earnings, it remains one of the most successful and endearing rom-coms of its time.
4. American Fiction (2023)
Directed by Cord Jefferson
Starring Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Ross, John Ortiz, Erika Alexander, Leslie Uggams, Adam Brody, Issa Rae, Sterling K. Brown
Cord Jefferson’s American Fiction is as thought-provoking as it is side-splitting. Adapted from Percival Everett’s novel Erasure, this satirical dramedy brilliantly dissects the publishing industry’s obsession with stereotypical narratives while delivering an intimate look at family, identity, and creative integrity. Jeffrey Wright delivers a tour-de-force performance as Thelonious "Monk" Ellison, a disillusioned writer who, in protest, pens an exaggerated, cliché-ridden "Black" novel as a joke—only to find it becomes a literary sensation.
Beyond its satire, American Fiction is a powerful family drama. Monk navigates personal grief, sibling dynamics (with excellent performances by Sterling K. Brown and Tracee Ellis Ross), and the moral weight of unintentional fame. The film is not just 2023’s funniest but also one of its most emotionally resonant. Winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, it strikes a rare balance between biting critique and heartfelt storytelling.
5. Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (2020)
Directed by Jason Woliner
Starring Sacha Baron Cohen, Maria Bakalova
How do you follow up a cultural lightning bolt like the original Borat? By somehow going bolder, sharper, and—believe it or not—even more emotional. In Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Sacha Baron Cohen returns as the clueless Kazakh journalist Borat Sagdiyev, navigating a radically changed America. This time, he’s not alone—he’s accompanied by his teenage daughter, Tutar, played by breakout star Maria Bakalova.
While the mockumentary maintains its signature cringe-comedy and daring satire, it also reveals surprising narrative coherence and emotional depth. The father-daughter relationship at the film’s core lends a touching, almost redemptive angle to Borat’s outlandish antics. And the jaw-dropping real-life interactions—ranging from a deeply uncomfortable OB-GYN scene to the now-infamous Rudy Giuliani interview—cement the film’s status as both a masterclass in guerrilla comedy and a chilling commentary on American society.
With Bakalova earning an Oscar nomination and Cohen pushing the boundaries of satire to new heights, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm is not just a worthy sequel—it’s an audacious, unforgettable comedic statement.
Stream and Laugh Away: Why These Comedies Are a Must-Watch on Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video’s comedy lineup is a testament to the evolving art of making people laugh. These films offer more than just punchlines; they delve into themes of identity, love, culture, and the absurdities of modern life. Whether it’s the surreal humor of My Old Ass, the heartfelt realism of The Big Sick, the nostalgic charm of You’ve Got Mail, the searing wit of American Fiction, or the outrageous brilliance of Borat, each title brings something special to the table.
So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot, and let these top-tier comedies remind you why laughter truly is the best medicine.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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