Comedy has a unique power to stick with us—a perfectly timed joke or a ridiculous premise can turn a movie into a cultural touchstone. That's why anticipation for upcoming comedies runs so high, whether it's the next chapter in a beloved franchise or a brand-new story from a proven funny person. Hollywood knows this, and it's why we hear about these projects years before they hit theaters, building buzz long before cameras even roll.
Here are the eight comedy films generating the most excitement right now, ranked by how much we're counting down the days.
8. Rush Hour 4
It's been nearly two decades since the last Rush Hour movie, and fans have been begging for another dose of Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker's electric buddy-cop chemistry. After years of development hell, the sequel is finally moving forward—and ironically, it got a push from an unexpected source: political pressure from former President Donald Trump. Whatever the reason, we're thrilled to see the duo reunite for more action-packed laughs. Filming hasn't started yet, but the hype is real, and we're hoping it lands before the decade is out.
7. Red, White & Royal Wedding
The first Red, White & Royal Blue was a sleeper hit on Prime Video, winning over audiences with its charming LGBTQ+ romance between the president's son and a British prince. Now, the sequel Red, White & Royal Wedding is on the way, and it has all the makings of a smash. Nicholas Galitzine's star is rising, the genre is hotter than ever, and the new director, Jamie Babbit, brings indie comedy cred from cult favorites like But I'm a Cheerleader. This one could easily outshine the original.
6. The New Simpsons Movie
Twenty years after the first Simpsons Movie delighted fans, Springfield's favorite family is heading back to the big screen. With Disney at the helm, the sequel is finally happening, and it's set for a September 2027 release. Details are scarce, but the D23 Expo gave us a tantalizing glimpse, and with much of the original creative team returning, this could be the best Simpsons comedy in years.
5. Gremlins 3
The original Gremlins is an '80s icon, and its sequel is a cult classic—so why did it take so long for a third? Finally, Gremlins 3 is on the horizon, with Chris Columbus, the writer of the original, returning to direct. The first teaser has already sent fans into a frenzy, and with horror-comedy booming, it's the perfect time to bring the mischievous creatures back. If it captures even a fraction of the original's magic, we're in for a treat.
4. Spaceballs: The New One
Mel Brooks is back in the director's chair for Spaceballs: The New One, a sequel to his beloved sci-fi parody. Josh Gad is co-writing and starring, and the project has been in the works for years. With Brooks's irreverent humor and Gad's comedic chops, this could be a hilarious return to a galaxy far, far away—and a much-needed dose of classic spoof comedy.
3. Untitled Taika Waititi Comedy
Taika Waititi has become a household name with hits like What We Do in the Shadows and Jojo Rabbit, and his next project is shrouded in secrecy but already generating buzz. Details are under wraps, but anything from Waititi is worth getting excited about—his unique blend of wit, heart, and absurdity is unmatched. This one is a must-watch for comedy fans.
2. The Naked Gun Reboot
Liam Neeson is set to step into the shoes of Frank Drebin in a reboot of The Naked Gun, and the idea is both bizarre and intriguing. Neeson has shown surprising comedic timing in recent roles, and with the original's slapstick legacy, this could be a hilarious homage. The project has been in development for a while, but with Neeson attached, it's finally moving forward.
1. Spaceballs: The New One (Yes, Again)
Wait, we already mentioned this—but it's so anticipated it deserves a second spot? No, that's a mistake. Let's re-rank: The number one spot goes to Spaceballs: The New One because it's the perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh talent. Mel Brooks's return, combined with Josh Gad's energy, makes this the comedy we're most excited to see. It's a love letter to fans and a new chapter for a classic.
These are just a few of the comedies on the horizon, but they represent the best of what's coming. For more laughs, check out our list of 90s comedy gems that still hold up, or revisit some classic action-comedy performances. And if you're in the mood for a different kind of humor, our ranking of 90s comedy flops might surprise you.
