Comedy is a tricky genre. What makes us laugh today might feel stale tomorrow, but some films have a timeless quality that keeps them fresh no matter how many years pass. The 1990s produced a treasure trove of hilarious movies, and while many have become classics, others have slipped under the radar. Here are a few forgotten gems from that decade that still deliver big laughs.
So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993)
Before Mike Myers became the groovy international spy Austin Powers, he starred in this clever spoof of murder mysteries. Directed by Thomas Schlamme, the film follows Charlie MacKenzie (Myers), a somewhat neurotic guy who falls for the charming Harriet (Nancy Travis). But there's a catch: her previous fiancés all died under mysterious circumstances. Myers also shines as Charlie's Scottish father, a role that foreshadows his later work in Shrek. The movie is a witty blend of romance and suspense, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that have aged remarkably well.
Mallrats (1995)
Kevin Smith's follow-up to Clerks is a love letter to 90s mall culture. The film follows a group of friends who spend their days hanging out at the local shopping center. Jason Lee leads the cast as Brodie, a slacker trying to win back his ex-girlfriend (Shannen Doherty), while his buddy T.S. (Jeremy London) deals with his own romantic troubles. The plot is secondary to the colorful characters, including Jay and Silent Bob, a psychic, and a guy obsessed with a 3D painting. With a cameo from Stan Lee, this movie is a quirky time capsule that still feels fresh.
Waiting for Guffman (1996)
Christopher Guest's mockumentary about a small-town community theater production is a masterpiece of deadpan humor. Guest plays Corky St. Clair, a flamboyant director who dreams of Broadway. The cast, including Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, and Fred Willard, delivers improvised lines that have become legendary. Parker Posey also shines as the sassy Libby Mae Brown. The film's gentle satire of small-town aspirations and its heartfelt performances make it a comedy that only gets better with age.
Swingers (1996)
Doug Liman's indie hit captured the 90s swing revival and launched the careers of Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn. The story follows a group of friends navigating the Los Angeles singles scene, with Favreau's character trying to get over his ex-girlfriend. The film is packed with quotable lines and a memorable soundtrack. It's a snapshot of a particular era, but its themes of friendship and heartbreak remain universal.
These movies, along with others like Tommy Boy and Waiting for Guffman, prove that great comedy is timeless. They may have faded from the spotlight, but they're well worth revisiting. For more underrated gems, check out our list of underrated gems or see what's new on Netflix this week. And if you're in the mood for more laughs, don't miss Joel McHale's comedy or the best whodunits for mystery fans.
