10 Funniest African-American Comedies of All-time
The older I get and the more I get slapped with a cold, hard dose of reality – which is everyday – the more I appreciate a good comedy. We all know how it is to come after a tough day or week and a good comedy is always a good way to relax.
I have compiled a list of the 10 greatest African-American comedies of all-time.
Readers are encouraged to submit their own respective top 10 list which will be published at a later date.
Let’s Do it Again (1975)
Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier are absolutely hilarious in the sequel to their first movie together, Uptown Saturday Night. John Amos and Jimmy Walker add credible performances to this all-star cast, but it is Cosby who leads the fun and laughs in my favorite African-American comedy of all-time. If you haven’t seen this film, I can guarantee you that you won’t be disappointed.
Coming to America (1988)
This film has been recognized by a lot of people as the greatest African-American comedy of all-time and if it weren’t for my affinity for Let’s Do it Again, I can easily see why. This film may have been Edie Murphy’s finest performance. Combined with the antics of Arsenio Hall, this duo was absolutely masterful in this film.
Car Wash (1976)
Richard Pryor and George Carlin helped to make this film one of the most beloved of all African-American movies. This film was great stuff that brings the 70s back all over again. God, what a great time it was too! Oh well, back to reality. This film is a through and through winner.
Harlem Nights (1989)
Eddie Murphy directed and starred in this great comedy that also featured Red Foxx, Richard Pryor, Arsenio Hall, Della Reese and Danny Aiello. If you’re looking for a movie that will make you laugh – this is it. The fight scene between Murphy and Reese is unforgettable.
Friday (1995)
When writing this movie, Ice Cube was quoted as saying he wanted to create a fun film just like “Car Wash.” It may not have been “Car Wash” but Ice Cube’s movie was a classic in its own right that spurred two sequels that were pretty good in their own right. Chris Tucker’s performance make this film is a definite top-ten selection on the all-time list.
Bustin’ Loose (1981)
I don’t think you’ll see this film on many top ten lists, but for me, Richard Pryor and Cicely Tyson, (whom I still have a crush on) made this film unforgettable. It’s an enjoyable film that also had several touching moments as well. This is definitely one of my favorites of all-time.
Big Momma’s House (2000)
This film featured Martin Lawrence at his wise-cracking very best. Co-star, Nia Long is always a treat for the eyes, which never hurts, but it was seeing Lawrence in costume as “Big Momma” that did the trick. Playing two roles proved to be a cakewalk for Lawrence who is also currently appearing in the sequel, “Big Momma’s House 2.”
How High (2001)
This film will never get the critics attention but for downright laughs, Method Man and Redman are absolutely hilarious in this movie. The performances of mike Epps and Obba Babatunde only served to make this film even more hilarious. If you don’t want to laugh, then don’t get this movie because if you do, you’ll be on the floor in stitches – guaranteed.
White Chicks (2004)
The performances of Marlon and Shawn Wayans made this movie an instant favorite for me. Both brothers are absolutely hilarious in drag as two white women. The film and the Wayans brothers are both a sight to see.
I’m Gonna’ Git You Sucka (1988)
This Keenan Ivory Wayans production was a spoof of every hilarious 70s “blaxploitation” comedy that featured Keenan Ivory Wayans at his very best. Damon Wayans and Kadeem Hardison were also very funny in this film, which was spawned a slew of spoof comedies since it was released nearly 20 years ago.
