The genre of action-comedy is one of the most spectacular genre hybrids out there. One reason why action comedies are watched by millions the world over is that they tend to blend the independent genres of action and comedy into one ambitious mainstream project.
While the result may not always be thrilling, the films do turn out to be amusing, to say the least.
That said, the genre did not really gain prominence until the onset of the '80s. In fact, it'd be safe to assert that a handful of buddy-cop features are credited with its rapid growth.
It is not surprising then that the action-comedy formula truly came into its own and carved a niche for itself during the 1990s.
Aside from the obvious blend of action and humor, what makes the genre so special is that the movies that swear to be true-blue action comedies are somewhat critic-proof.
This means that even though they might end up putting off the critics, the viewers are more than ready to lap up the projects; provided that they promise a fair dose of entertainment.
However, there also are a ton of full-length features that have managed to impress both critics and viewers alike over the years.
So, what are we waiting for? Let's try and watch/re-watch the best among them.
ActionCrimeDrama
Director:
Edgar Wright
Release Date:
Wed Jun 28 2017
Star Cast:
Ansel Elgort, Jon Bernthal, Jon Hamm
Budget:
$34,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$226,945,087
Brooding, sensational, and engaging, Baby Driver is a stylish and exciting action entertainer that is fueled by its charming lead performances and a killer soundtrack.
The story follows Baby, a former getaway driver, who is forced by the dominant Doc to partake in a heist. He has no option but to accept the mission if he doesn't want his girlfriend to get in harm's way.
However, soon after the plan is set in motion, things go haywire when the arms dealers turn out to be undercover officers who will stop at nothing to get the better of Baby and his squad.
Edgar Wright's Baby Driver is a fast-paced action movie that doesn't let the thrills subside throughout its runtime.
Recommended:
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert
Release Date:
Fri Apr 8 2022
Star Cast:
Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Jamie Lee Curtis
Budget:
$14,300,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$143,414,741
The Academy Award-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once is a multi-genre motion picture in more ways than one for it manages to successfully blend elements of science fiction, action, humour, and family drama into its intricately structured screenplay.
The highly imaginative and action-packed feature follows a Chinese-American immigrant Evelyn Wang, who shockingly learns that she must communicate with alternate-universe versions of herself to deter a powerful creature from demolishing the cosmos for good.
The often intense and hilarious story is driven by the power-packed performances of the magnificent Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan, who are brilliantly supported by Jamie Lee Curtis and Stephanie Hsu.
Recommended:
ActionComedyMystery
Director:
Edgar Wright
Release Date:
Fri Apr 20 2007
Star Cast:
Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Martin Freeman
Budget:
£8,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$80,577,265
Director Edgar Wright’s Hot Fuzz has got to be one of the most popular action comedies of all time.
The film tracks the journey of Officer Angel, who, after getting transferred to Sandford, teams up with a local cop to take things under control when a disguised stranger proceeds to wreak havoc on the residents.
Even though this motion picture is pretty much a parody of conventional buddy cop movies, it is also reasonably authentic in its own way.
Actors Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent, and Timothy Dalton are seen playing important characters in this feature film.
Hot Fuzz was praised for its execution, performances, and humor. Needless to say, it was a hit at the box office.
Recommended:
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
James Gunn
Release Date:
Fri Aug 1 2014
Star Cast:
Chris Pratt, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper
Budget:
$170,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$773,350,147
There is no denying the fact that this James Gunn directorial venture is one of the most popular science fiction action-comedy feature films on the planet.
Based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name, the story traces the journey of Peter, who manages to escape from the planet Morag.
However, he possesses a precious orb that Ronan the Accuser wants. Needless to mention, Peter is left with little option other than to constitute a group with a set of heroes to stop Ronan.
It is the 10th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and was a critical and commercial success.
Recommended:
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Martin Brest
Release Date:
Wed Jul 20 1988
Star Cast:
Robert De Niro, Charles Grodin, Yaphet Kotto
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$81,613,606
Director Martin Brest's Midnight Run features a cast headlined by performers such as Robert De Niro, Charles Grodin, Yaphet Kotto, John Ashton, Dennis Farina, and Joe Pantoliano.
The film traces the journey of a mafia accountant named Jonathan Mardukas, who happens to be on the run.
A more than competent bounty hunter, Jack Walsh, takes the onus on himself to find the accountant and claim a significant reward.
However, the catch here is that the bounty hunter has to catch Mardukas before someone else manages to nab him.
A critical and commercial success, this action-comedy was nominated for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actor for Robert De Niro at the 46th Golden Globe Awards.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
David O. Russell
Release Date:
Fri Oct 1 1999
Star Cast:
George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$107,752,036
Three Kings is a war-themed action-comedy feature film that has been written and directed by David O. Russell. It stars George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube, and Spike Jonze in pivotal roles.
The motion picture traces the journey of three soldiers, who, after the end of the Persian Gulf War, chance upon critical information about a huge stock of gold hidden near their military base.
However, getting one's hands on something as precious as gold cannot exactly be a cakewalk, can it? Needless to say, a few abrupt discoveries turn the adventure of the three soldiers into a survival mission.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Taika Waititi
Release Date:
Fri Nov 3 2017
Star Cast:
Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett
Budget:
$180,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$855,301,806
This superhero-themed action-comedy is all about excitement, action, and above all, fun. This extremely colorful cosmic journey sets a new cinematic standard not only for its already successful franchise but also for the rest of the team of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The blockbuster film tracks the journey of Thor, who, after having lost his indomitable hammer Mjolnir, is forced to escape to the other side of the universe in order to protect his home, Asgard.
The imminent threat is from the Goddess of Death, Hela. Thus, the screenplay traces whether or not Thor is able to save his home despite all odds.
ActionComedyFantasy
Director:
Stephen Chow
Release Date:
Fri Apr 22 2005
Star Cast:
Stephen Chow, Wah Yuen, Qiu Yuen
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$104,882,445
Stephen Chow's critically and commercially successful Kung Fu Hustle aims to tell the story of an aspiring gangster who pretends to be part of a notorious gang and tries to scare a neighbourhood.
However, little does he know that three merciless martial arts experts happen to reside there and are, in fact, more than willing to take him down.
While Chow certainly has done a fantastic job acting and directing, the movie is further elevated by its superbly choreographed martial arts fight sequences, absurdly entertaining comedy, and remarkable visual effects.
ActionComedy
Director:
Paul Feig
Release Date:
Fri Jun 5 2015
Star Cast:
Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Jude Law
Budget:
$65,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$235,666,219
Not many viewers would have been able to imagine Melissa McCarthy as an action star. But, the actress does justice to her character and pulls it off with ease in the action entertainer Spy.
The film shows how a desk-working CIA analyst named Susan Cooper volunteers to be a field agent after one of the organization's spies has been compromised.
While the movie has its fair share of fun and action, it is hilarious to catch a serious action superstar like Jason Statham playing the role of a dim-witted super-spy.
That being said, the hilarious McCarthy is reasonably good in her action sequences in this Paul Feig-helmed project.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Shane Black
Release Date:
Fri May 20 2016
Star Cast:
Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Angourie Rice
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$71,261,763
Filmmaker Shane Black's The Nice Guys may have failed to cause a stir at the box office, but it certainly deserved more attention than it got.
The motion picture has been headlined by acclaimed screen performers such as Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling.
Actors Angourie Rice, Matt Bomer, Margaret Qualley, Keith David, and Kim Basinger can be seen playing crucial supporting characters in this one.
The story follows a girl named Amelia, who hires a man named Healey, to put March in his place. This is because March is a detective who is relentlessly on her trail. However, Healey later teams up with March to look for Amelia after two hitmen attempt to force the former to disclose her location.
Had it not been for comparatively popular features like Captain America: Civil War and Me Before You, The Nice Guys would have perhaps been able to make a mark at the box office.
Nevertheless, this remarkably original title does make it to our list successfully.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Barry Sonnenfeld
Release Date:
Wed Jul 2 1997
Star Cast:
Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino
Budget:
$90,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$589,390,539
Director Barry Sonnenfeld's Men in Black is an insanely popular science fiction action-comedy that continues to fascinate its fans to this very day.
It stars actors like Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Linda Fiorentino, Vincent D'Onofrio, and Rip Torn in significant roles.
The film tracks the journey of the titular "men in black", namely K and J, who are super-agents devoted to scum-fighting.
However, their latest mission is arguably their biggest: to save the world from a devastating intergalactic catastrophe.
Men in Black opened to favorable reviews from film pundits and was a smash hit at the box office.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
James Gunn
Release Date:
Thu Aug 5 2021
Star Cast:
Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena
Budget:
$185,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$168,717,425
Director James Gunn's The Suicide Squad has got to be one of the most absurd and, yet, entertaining comic book features to have ever hit the screens.
Seemingly inspired by an adventure flick like The Dirty Dozen, the movie thrives on its dark humor and bloody action sequences.
The story traces the journey of a group of supervillains who are persuaded by a government agent to become a part of a harmful team.
In exchange, they would see a reduction in their respective jail sentences. Consequently, the group is dispatched to Corto Maltese, where they are tasked with demolishing a laboratory for good.
It stars an ensemble cast headlined by actors such as Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena, Joel Kinnaman, Sylvester Stallone, Viola Davis, David Dastmalchian, Daniela Melchior, Michael Rooker, Jai Courtney, Peter Capaldi, Alice Braga, and Pete Davidson.
ComedyCrimeMystery
Director:
Shane Black
Release Date:
Fri Nov 11 2005
Star Cast:
Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$15,948,907
This Shane Black directorial venture is one of the most distinct mainstream features to make it to our list.
The neo-noir black comedy crime flick stars competent actors like Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan, and Corbin Bernsen in powerful roles.
It tells the story of a thief who is pretending to be a screen performer. However, he soon gets himself implicated in a murder investigation in Hollywood after having befriended a private eye.
One thing leads to another and he ends up getting a struggling actress involved in the ongoing investigation as well.
Even though it failed to be a significant box office success, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang opened to mostly positive reviews.
ComedyCrimeRomance
Director:
Jonathan Demme
Release Date:
Fri Nov 7 1986
Star Cast:
Jeff Daniels, Melanie Griffith, George 'Red' Schwartz
Budget:
$7,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$8,363,187
Directed by Jonathan Demme, this action-comedy romantic film stars Melanie Griffith, Jeff Daniels, and the late great Ray Liotta in significant roles.
It tells the story of a businessman named Charles Driggs, who is abducted by a free-spirited and seemingly independent woman named Lulu.
While Charles is taken on a ride of his lifetime by Lulu, her ex-husband shows up out of nowhere.
Needless to say, the adventuring duo is threatened to endure great trouble post his sudden arrival.
Something Wild thrives on its quirky charm and the likable performances of its three lead actors.
ActionComedy
Director:
Nida Manzoor
Release Date:
Fri Apr 28 2023
Star Cast:
Priya Kansara, Ritu Arya, Renu Brindle
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,593,937
In this action comedy written and directed by Nida Manzoor, we are introduced to a girl named Ria Khan, who believes that she has to save her older sister from her impending marriage.
So, she ends up taking an extreme step to do the needful. We catch Ria being helped by her pals to pull off the most ambitious wedding heist of all time. Indeed, she is willing to go all out for sisterhood and her sister's independence.
One of the most original - if not the best - feature films to make it to our story today, Polite Society has Priya Kansara delivering a solid performance in the main lead.
While the actors share decent chemistry among themselves, it is the refreshing execution of the story that makes you want to appreciate the film. It is a deliberately over-the-top action flick that unleashes real comic fun as it progresses.
Needless to say, this delightfully weird motion picture turns into something you may not have expected not long after it begins.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Walter Hill
Release Date:
Wed Dec 8 1982
Star Cast:
Nick Nolte, Eddie Murphy, Annette O'Toole
Budget:
$12,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$78,868,508
This Walter Hill directorial venture is credited with being one of the first entries in the genre of buddy cop action-comedy. The feature film traces the journey of a street-smart criminal named Reggie.
Reggie, who is tasked with nabbing his former partners-in-crime, has to team up with a cop named Jack Cates to complete the mission.
The catch here is that both Reggie and Jack hate each other but are forced to bond as they continue to chase the three delinquents.
48 Hrs. was considered to be one of the better motion pictures to have hit the screens in 1982, and was the seventh highest-grossing film of the year.
ActionComedyFantasy
Director:
Stephen Chow
Release Date:
Thu Jul 5 2001
Star Cast:
Stephen Chow, Wei Zhao, Yat-Fei Wong
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$42,776,760
Stephen Chow's Shaolin Soccer is just so entertaining that it will reignite the kid within you in no time. Filled with Chow's signature skills, from linguistic games to martial arts spoofing, this actioner is truly one of a kind.
It chronicles the journey of a former Shaolin monk who decides to gather his five closest mates to ensure that they can use their superhuman martial arts strength to not only play soccer but also make the general public aware of Shaolin kung fu.
The film banks on its unapologetic ridiculousness and action to make an impression, and it most certainly does. While it is populated with ceaseless action, it also offers plenty of hilarious, pure comedic moments that will make you fall out of your chair laughing.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
David F. Sandberg
Release Date:
Fri Apr 5 2019
Star Cast:
Zachary Levi, Mark Strong, Asher Angel
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$367,799,011
Director David F. Sandberg's superhero action-comedy was expected to perform well at the ticket windows, but it wouldn't be an exaggeration to claim that it exceeded all expectations.
Starring Zachary Levi in the main lead, the film traces the journey of a boy named Billy, who loses his mother at a fair.
He tries to look for her as religiously as possible but to no avail. However, in the process, Billy stumbles upon a wizard and his life alters for good.
This is because the wizard grants him superpowers that transform him into a force to be reckoned with. The superbly entertaining Shazam! opened to mostly positive reviews and was a significant box office success.
ActionComedy
Director:
Tim Miller
Release Date:
Fri Feb 12 2016
Star Cast:
Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, T.J. Miller
Budget:
$58,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$782,836,791
This hugely popular and successful Tim Miller directorial venture features a cast that includes actors such as Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, Ed Skrein, T. J. Miller, Gina Carano, and Brianna Hildebrand.
The film tells us how a twisted scientist, who goes by the name of Ajax, strives to experiment on a mercenary named Wade Wilson in order to cure him of cancer.
The scientist also intends to grant him healing powers. However, the experiment is not successful and, in fact, ends up leaving Wade disfigured. Understandably furious, Wilson decides to exact revenge.
This superhero action-comedy is based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name and was a massive success at the global box office.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Peyton Reed
Release Date:
Fri Jul 6 2018
Star Cast:
Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Peña
Budget:
$162,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$622,674,139
Director Peyton Reed's Ant-Man and the Wasp is one of the few Marvel Comics-based superhero action comedies to make it to our story.
The film tells the story of Scott Lang, who, along with the Wasp, tries his best to assist Dr. Hank Pym in breaking into the quantum realm. However, they face new adversaries as they continue with their daring endeavors.
Ant-Man and the Wasp turned out to be a critical and commercial success at the box office courtesy of its levity, humor, and performances.
Its sequel, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, also opened to decent reviews at the box office.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
David Leitch
Release Date:
Fri May 18 2018
Star Cast:
Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin
Budget:
$110,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$785,896,609
In this sequel to the acclaimed feature film Deadpool, the titular superhero is seen trying to protect a young mutant named Russell from the authorities.
While attempting to do so, he ends up getting locked up in prison himself. However, he uses his brainpower to flee the prison.
Soon after, he forms a formidable team of mutants to deter a time-traveling mercenary from slaying Russell.
This David Leitch-helmed project was appreciated for its storyline, humor, and action by critics. Also, it outgrossed its predecessor comfortably.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Release Date:
Fri Mar 16 2012
Star Cast:
Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube
Budget:
$42,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$201,585,328
Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller helm an amusing project that features a cast headlined by performers such as Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson, Dave Franco, Rob Riggle, and Ice Cube.
21 Jump Street traces the journey of two high school pals, Schmidt and Jenko, who go on to become cops later in their lives.
The two good friends are entrusted with the task of going undercover as pupils. Their ultimate aim is to not only crush a drug ring but also unearth the source of a synthetic drug.
While Hill and Tatum share decent chemistry in this popular action-comedy, one can't negate the fact that the former also happens to be the writer of this motion picture.
ActionComedyFantasy
Director:
Edgar Wright
Release Date:
Fri Aug 13 2010
Star Cast:
Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$51,580,946
Director Edgar Wright's romantic action-comedy has managed to amass a dedicated following of its own following its theatrical release in 2010.
The film traces the journey of a guy named Scott Pilgrim who, one fine day, happens to meet Ramona and ends up falling in love with her.
However, the path to love and redemption is unquestionably the toughest, and Scott, thankfully, does not take an entire lifetime to comprehend the same.
In order to win Ramona over, he realizes that he will have to deal with all of her seven exes. Even though this motion picture thrives on its visual style and humor, it failed to break even at the ticket windows.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Tom Gormican
Release Date:
Fri Apr 22 2022
Star Cast:
Nicolas Cage, Pedro Pascal, Tiffany Haddish
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$29,116,320
One of the most distinct action comedies to have released in 2022, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent stars the inimitable Nicolas Cage as a fictionalized version of himself.
The film showcases the actor channelling his iconic characters as he's caught between a superfan and a CIA agent.
Even though it opened to positive reviews from critics, it failed to mint money at the ticket counters. Besides Cage's confident performance, we also get to catch Pedro Pascal's scene-stealing act in this one.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Release Date:
Fri Jun 13 2014
Star Cast:
Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill, Ice Cube
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$331,333,876
This buddy cop action-comedy is a successful sequel to 21 Jump Street. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, it's been written by the talented Jonah Hill.
The plot follows two undercover cops, Schmidt and Jenko, who are sent on a mission to a college to investigate the relentless usage of a recreational drug known as WHYPHY.
However, things go for a toss when a girl named Maya comes into the picture. Needless to say, the bond between the two buddies is put to the test as Schmidt ends up befriending the girl.
ActionComedyWar
Director:
Ben Stiller
Release Date:
Wed Aug 13 2008
Star Cast:
Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr.
Budget:
$92,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$195,702,963
This action-comedy motion picture has been helmed for the screen by renowned actor Ben Stiller. The screenplay is centred on a film being made within the film.
Basically, the storyline of Tropic Thunder traces the journey of a movie crew that is attempting to shoot a big-budget war drama.
In the process, the crew members are forced to become the soldiers that they are portraying. This happens after they are abruptly attacked by a gang of a local drug dealer.
Tropic Thunder stars actors like Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Jay Baruchel, and Brandon T. Jackson in significant roles.
This motion picture is popular for parodying a number of Vietnam-based war feature films, and is a surprisingly witty watch.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Martin Brest
Release Date:
Wed Dec 5 1984
Star Cast:
Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton
Budget:
$13,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$316,360,478
Not many of you would be aware of the fact that action megastar Sylvester Stallone was supposed to star in 1984's Beverly Hills Cop.
However, Stallone wanted the feature to be a dark and dramatic action thriller. The makers, though, had other ideas.
Since the producers decided to give this movie a comedic angle, Stallone decided to quit the project. This led to Eddie Murphy's inclusion in the star cast.
The Martin Brest-helmed motion picture traces the journey of a police officer named Alex Foley, who, after the assassination of his friend Mikey, takes charge of the investigation.
In the process, Foley finds himself trapped in the underworld of Beverly Hills.
Beverly Hills Cop won the People's Choice Award for "Favorite Motion Picture" and, consequently, brought its lead star tremendous name and fame. The feature film was a massive hit at the ticket counters.
ActionComedy
Director:
Scott Sanders
Release Date:
Wed Jan 13 2010
Star Cast:
Michael Jai White, Arsenio Hall, Tommy Davidson
Budget:
$2,900,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$296,557
This Scott Sanders directorial venture tells the story of a kung fu fighter who wages a war after "The Man" not only kills his brother but also poisons the whole neighborhood with tainted liquor.
While the fighter's journey takes him all the way to Nixon's White House, it also takes the viewers for a ride full of ceaseless fun and action.
It'd be safe to say that the film manages to strike a chord with the viewers because it does its best to honour its genre without coming off as trite or pretentious. Needless to say, the seamless blend of action and comedy in this one provides the audience with a great time.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Guy Ritchie
Release Date:
Fri Aug 28 1998
Star Cast:
Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran
Budget:
£960,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$3,753,929
This black comedy action flick is yet another Guy Ritchie-helmed motion picture to make it to our story. It was also written for the screen by Ritchie himself.
The director's knack for humor, action, and crime is perfectly visible in this highly acclaimed feature film. The story follows Eddy and his three buddies, who come together to pool money for an important poker game.
The catch here is that the game is against a dominant local mobster, named Hatchet Harry. Eddy ends up losing the game following which he owes Harry money.
The latter gives him and his pals a week to pay back 500,000 pounds. But, can the friends manage to save themselves by paying their debts?
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is an exciting and engaging flick that features actors such as Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Steven Mackintosh, Sting, Vinnie Jones, and Jason Statham in significant roles.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Doug Liman
Release Date:
Fri Sep 29 2017
Star Cast:
Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson, Sarah Wright
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$134,866,593
Based on a true story, American Made is arguably one of the most underrated mainstream features to have been headlined by Tom Cruise in recent memory.
The action comedy tracks the journey of Barry Seal, a commercial airline pilot, who gets involved in drugs and arms smuggling while working for the CIA. Sooner than later, we find him turning into an informant for the government to escape his time behind bars.
Tom Cruise portrays the former TWA pilot gracefully. In fact, his presence and performance are two of the major reasons to sit through this Doug Liman-helmed project.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein
Release Date:
Fri Feb 23 2018
Star Cast:
Jason Bateman, Rachel McAdams, Kyle Chandler
Budget:
$37,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$117,768,230
Games are deemed to be non-stop fun, and they usually are. But, in John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein's action-comedy Game Night, they turn out to be as life-threatening and alarming as possible, albeit no less fun.
The film traces the journey of Max and Annie, who seem to be enjoying a harmless game night with Max's brother Brooks and some friends.
However, the group soon realizes that they are in an actual game of life and death. Needless to mention, a lot many action-packed twists follow and make this entertainer a satisfying watch.
The motion picture stars Jason Bateman, Rachel McAdams, Billy Magnussen, Sharon Horgan, Lamorne Morris, Kylie Bunbury, Jesse Plemons, Michael C. Hall, and Kyle Chandler in significant roles.
ActionComedySci-Fi
Director:
Peyton Reed
Release Date:
Fri Jul 17 2015
Star Cast:
Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Corey Stoll
Budget:
$130,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$519,311,965
This action-comedy superhero motion picture has been directed by Peyton Reed and stars Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly in the main lead.
The screenplay tracks the journey of a genius thief named Scott who has mastered the ability to physically shrink himself courtesy of a coveted futuristic suit.
Now, he is compelled to use his superhero status to his advantage, all while trying to protect his big secret from unfavorable elements and circumstances.
Ant-Man thrives on its Marvel thrills, action, and humor to leave an impact. A lot many critics consider it to be one of the most spectacular and original Marvel movies.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Matthew Vaughn
Release Date:
Fri Apr 16 2010
Star Cast:
Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Nicolas Cage, Chloë Grace Moretz
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$96,188,903
Director Matthew Vaughn's Kick-Ass is an amazingly popular superhero action-comedy feature film that is credited with bringing a lot of fame to its young leading performers.
Starring actors Aaron Johnson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Chloë Grace Moretz, Mark Strong, and Nicolas Cage in significant roles, the movie is based on the comic book of the same name by writers Mark Millar and John Romita Jr.
The motion picture strives to track the journey of an ardent comic book reader, Dave, who sets out to become a real-life superhero named Kick-Ass.
It opened to favorable reviews at the ticket windows.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Robert Zemeckis
Release Date:
Fri Mar 30 1984
Star Cast:
Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$86,572,238
This action-adventure romantic comedy has been helmed by Robert Zemeckis and features a cast headlined by actors such as Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner, Danny DeVito, Alfonso Arau, and Manuel Ojeda.
The story follows a lady named Joan Wilder who receives a treasure map from her brother-in-law who has recently been assassinated.
After Joan's sister Elaine is abducted in Colombia, her kidnappers, namely Ira and Ralph, expect her to hand them the treasure map as ransom.
Romancing the Stone opened to decent reviews and enjoyed a fair run at the box office.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Shawn Levy
Release Date:
Fri Aug 13 2021
Star Cast:
Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Taika Waititi
Budget:
$120,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$331,526,598
Toplined by Ryan Reynolds, Free Guy chronicles the journey of a bank teller who learns that he's a background player in an open-world video game.
Upon realizing this, he decides to become the hero of his own story; a hero that he, himself, would look up to.
Since he is now a part of the world where there are no boundaries, he is more than willing to save the day before things spiral out of control.
The movie opened to positive reviews and was a box office success.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Matthew Vaughn
Release Date:
Fri Feb 13 2015
Star Cast:
Colin Firth, Taron Egerton, Samuel L. Jackson
Budget:
$81,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$414,351,546
Director Matthew Vaughn brings together a strong cast comprising actors such as Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton, and Michael Caine.
This zany action-comedy traces the journey of a secret agent named Gary "Eggsy" Unwin, who has to face a ton of challenges after getting recruited as a spy in a secret spy organization.
There, he is entrusted with the task of looking for the eco-terrorist Richmond Valentine. Firth delivers an outstanding performance as a skilled gentleman who can also turn out to be far more violent than James Bond if and when required.
Actors Taron Egerton and Samuel L. Jackson deliver delightful performances each as well in this memorable action-comedy.
ComedyCrime
Director:
Guy Ritchie
Release Date:
Fri Jan 19 2001
Star Cast:
Jason Statham, Brad Pitt, Stephen Graham
Budget:
£6,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$83,557,872
Arguably the best action-comedy movie to make it to our story, Snatch has developed a well-deserved cult following since its official theatrical release at the dawn of the 21st century.
The film traces the journey of a boxing promoter who is introduced to the match-fixing syndicate by a terrifying gangster who is known to breed pigs.
However, the already engrossing story becomes even more enjoyable when a street-fighting gypsy, his family, and a vicious pitbull come into the picture.
This Guy Ritchie directorial venture thrives on its scathing sharp humor and raw action sequences. Despite it being quick-paced and populated with characters, it manages to make you have a lot of fun, courtesy of its talented cast of performers.
This fresh and funny motion picture comprises an ensemble cast headlined by acclaimed actors like Benicio del Toro, Dennis Farina, Vinnie Jones, Brad Pitt, Rade Šerbedžija, and Jason Statham, among others.
ActionComedyThriller
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Fri Jul 15 1994
Star Cast:
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Arnold
Budget:
$115,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$378,882,411
Post the phenomenal critical and commercial success of the Terminator films, director James Cameron and action superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger teamed up again for the action-comedy True Lies.
Also starring the charming Jamie Lee Curtis in a pivotal role, the film tracks the journey of a secret agent whose life turns upside down after he finds out about his wife's extramarital affair.
Now, apart from fighting to save the world, the agent is also compelled to fight to save his seemingly disastrous marriage.
Curtis was able to win the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy and the Saturn Award for Best Actress for her superb performance in this smash hit. On the other hand, Cameron also took the Saturn Award for Best Director home.
ActionCrime
Director:
Guy Ritchie
Release Date:
Fri Jan 24 2020
Star Cast:
Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery
Budget:
$22,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$115,171,795
Director Guy Ritchie just doesn't seem to want to get off of this list, and, we don't blame him for it! The man has helmed some of the finest action comedies of all time.
His next project to make it to our list is The Gentlemen: an action-comedy that stars exceptionally talented performers such as Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Henry Golding, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Eddie Marsan, Colin Farrell, and Hugh Grant in crucial roles.
The film tracks how and what happens after cannabis magnate Mickey Pearson decides to sell his profitable marijuana empire post his retirement.
The Gentlemen opened to fair reviews and was a commercial success at the box office.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Robert Schwentke
Release Date:
Fri Oct 15 2010
Star Cast:
Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, Morgan Freeman
Budget:
$58,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$199,006,387
There is no denying the fact that Bruce Willis is one of the most popular action movie stars in the history of motion pictures. So, it's even more fun to watch his characters get draped in humor.
Needless to say, Bruce's portrayal of a retired CIA agent who becomes the target of the government is a delight to watch in Red.
The action-comedy traces the journey of a former black-ops agent named Frank Moses. After he discovers that his life is in danger, he reunites with his formidable former squad to catch the man who has apparently vowed to assassinate him.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
David Gordon Green
Release Date:
Wed Aug 6 2008
Star Cast:
Seth Rogen, James Franco, Gary Cole
Budget:
$27,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$101,624,843
The star cast of this David Gordon Green directorial venture includes actors such as Seth Rogen, James Franco, Gary Cole, Rosie Perez, and Danny McBride in crucial roles.
Needless to say, the inclusion of the aforementioned screen performers guaranteed a rocking action-comedy right from the moment that they were signed.
The story follows a pot-smoking process server and his drug dealer. The two individuals are caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse after they end up witnessing the ruthless murder of an Asian man by the hands of a corrupt cop and a dreadful drug lord.
Pineapple Express has developed a cult following ever since its release and was a fair box-office success.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
John Carpenter
Release Date:
Wed Jul 2 1986
Star Cast:
Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall, Dennis Dun
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$11,100,577
Director John Carpenter's Big Trouble in Little China features a cast headlined by actors such as Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall, Dennis Dun, and James Hong.
It tells the story of a truck driver named Jack Burton, who gets himself trapped in the dangerous underworld beneath Chinatown.
There, he encounters an ancient sorcerer who goes by the name of Lo Pan. Unfortunately, this American fantasy martial arts action-comedy feature film failed to mint money at the box office.
Even though it opened to mixed reviews upon its official theatrical release, it has managed to garner decent viewer ratings on IMDb.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Guy Ritchie
Release Date:
Fri Aug 14 2015
Star Cast:
Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$110,045,109
Filmmaker Guy Ritchie is famous for directing sleek action entertainers. It is not surprising then that his film adaptation of the classic The Man from U. N. C. L. E. TV show is no different.
The Man from U. N. C. L. E. stays true to its source material while melding it with the essential traits of a modern-day action-comedy feature.
The film tells the story of a CIA agent Napoleon and a KGB operative who are urged to let go of their differences and undertake a mission to prevent a dreadful criminal organization from using nuclear weapons.
The project stars actors Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander, Elizabeth Debicki, and Hugh Grant in significant roles.
ActionComedyThriller
Director:
Tommy Wirkola
Release Date:
Fri Dec 2 2022
Star Cast:
David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Beverly D'Angelo
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$76,004,405
Violence may be against the spirit of Xmas, but that's precisely what Violent Night resorted to in order to jingle the bells during Christmas 2022. We saw Saint Nick, finding a new face in David Harbour, and going all guns blazing to keep the essence of the holidays alive in this actioner.
Packed with a ton of unabashed action and well-executed comedy, this Tommy Wirkola directorial venture showcases an elite team of mercenaries breaking into a family compound on Christmas Eve. However, they've got no answer for the surprise that's waiting to find its way to them.
Set in a snow-clad landscape to do justice to its storyline, the motion picture does its best to emanate the spirit of Christmas in its own bizarre but entertaining manner. Watch out for Santa who is no saint in this one.
ActionComedyThriller
Director:
Baltasar Kormákur
Release Date:
Fri Aug 2 2013
Star Cast:
Denzel Washington, Mark Wahlberg, Paula Patton
Budget:
$61,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$131,940,411
2 Guns is a buddy cop action comedy that stars prominent screen performers like Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg in the main lead.
The story follows two undercover agents, Robert and Michael, who are more than willing to expose a drug lord named Manny "Papi" Greco.
The catch here is that the two agents are barely even familiar with each other's true identities. Therefore, trouble follows when they finally get to meet Papi.
Also starring Paula Patton, Bill Paxton, James Marsden, Fred Ward, and Edward James Olmos in supporting roles, 2 Guns has its pace, tone, and action working in its favor.
ActionComedyThriller
Director:
David Leitch
Release Date:
Fri Aug 5 2022
Star Cast:
Brad Pitt, Joey King, Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Budget:
$85,900,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$239,268,602
One of the most anticipated action entertainers to have hit the screens in 2022, Bullet Train is a highly enjoyable yet over-the-top actioner that features some major names from Hollywood among its ensemble cast.
It aims to tell the story of a professional hitman named Ladybug, who is assigned to retrieve a briefcase from a bullet train.
However, he soon realises that the task is far more complicated than it sounds for he is forced to battle many other killers who board the same train but with a different objective.
The high-speed and non-stop action of this wildly entertaining ride is truly worth a theatrical outing.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Tony Scott
Release Date:
Fri Dec 13 1991
Star Cast:
Bruce Willis, Damon Wayans, Chelsea Field
Budget:
$43,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$59,509,925
The Last Boy Scout strives to follow a competent detective who is forced to take up a job as a bodyguard.
However, things soon get out of hand as he ends up getting caught in a corruption and murder case.
The catch here is that everything is, directly or indirectly, connected to the seemingly "clean-cut" world of American football.
The movie stars actors Bruce Willis, Damon Wayans, Chelsea Field, Noble Willingham, Taylor Negron, and Danielle Harris in significant roles.
The Last Boy Scout underperformed at the ticket windows.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Ryu Seung-wan
Release Date:
Wed Aug 5 2015
Star Cast:
Hwang Jung-min, Yoo Ah-in, Yoo Hae-jin
Box Office (Worldwide):
$94,393,020
One of the better action comedies to have been produced by South Korea in the recent past, Veteran is an amusing and energetic project that's been helmed by Ryoo Seung-wan.
It chronicles the journey of a detective who tracks down a successful young criminal who is running a crime syndicate under a corrupt corporation.
One of the top-grossing motion pictures in South Korean cinema history, Veteran thrives on its solid performances and surprisingly good punchlines. It is a constantly entertaining and equally refreshing watch.
ActionComedyCrime
Director:
Michael Bay
Release Date:
Fri Apr 7 1995
Star Cast:
Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Lisa Boyle
Budget:
$19,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$141,407,024
Directed by Michael Bay, Bad Boys stars actors Martin Lawrence, Will Smith, Téa Leoni, Tchéky Karyo, Theresa Randle, and Joe Pantoliano in significant roles.
The motion picture tells the story of Marcus and Mike, who happen to be partners in the Miami police.
While the former is a true-blue family man, the latter is often found to be among the ladies. However, things go for a toss when they end up taking each other's identity during an ongoing drug deal investigation.
Even though this action-comedy opened to mixed reviews from the critics, it managed to emerge a winner at the box office. It has gone on to gain a cult following over the years.