19 greatest comedy TV shows and movies that get the same respect as dramas

Though comedy is often seen as a lighter counterpart of dramas they are often as impactful and insightful. The social commentary and exploration of human relationships in comedy movies and TV shows carry immense emotional depth. Humor when done well can be just as moving and thought-provoking. So in this list, we are going to talk about the 19 greatest comedy TV shows and movies that get the same respect as dramas.

1) 10 Things I Hate About You

10 Things I Hate About You tells the story of Kat, the antisocial elder sister of Bianca as her world gets a little more complicated when she finds out Patrick is getting paid to woo her. Despite her reservations, Kat starts to fall for Patrick as he challenges her, makes her laugh, and sees through her rough exterior. The movie is known for its sharp dialogue along with well-developed characters. It is a romantic comedy exploring the themes of love, family, and staying true to oneself.

2) The Boys

The Boys is a satirical show set in a world of superheroes where most of the superheroes are corrupt. Hence a team is created by the name of The Boys whose motive is to expose the corruption that goes through and take down corrupt Supes. The show satirizes real-world issues such as corporate greed, celebrity culture, and political corruption. It is both funny and serious at the same time.

3) Ted Lasso

Ted Lasso tells the story of Ted, a football coach, with an optimistic and kind heart. His unwavering positivity and genuine care for his players have a positive impact on the team. Ted’s capability of exploring difficult emotions such as grief, anxiety, and loneliness resonates with the viewers. This show proves that comedy can be more than just laughs.

4) The Office

The Office revolves around the workers of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company in Pennsylvania. Michael Scott is the regional manager but also a clueless boss at the same time. The relationship between Jim and Pam and Dwight’s eccentricity makes the show a must-watch. The show blends comedy and drama and transcends the typical sitcom label.

5) Modern Family

Modern Family revolves around the Pritchett family along with two other extended families. Jay Pritchett is a successful businessman who married Gloria, a much younger Columbian woman. Jay also has a son and a daughter who are married. All of them together navigate through the challenges of parenthood, marriage, and everything in between. This is a relatable show and viewers have resonated with the characters.

6) Schitt's Creek

Schitt’s Creek tells the story of the wealthy Rose family. The family loses all their money and is forced to relocate to Schitt’s Creek, a small rustic town. Through the family's shared struggles, they rediscover their love for each other and learn to appreciate the importance of family. This is a heartwarming show that celebrates the power of acceptance, kindness, and love.

7) The Big Lebowski

The Big Lebowski tells the story of Jeff Lebowski as he gets entangled in a kidnapping case after getting mistaken for someone else. Jeff is bowling-obsessed. After getting kidnapped with his friends they navigate through this situation and encounter eccentric characters. The movie is filled with twists featuring misunderstandings and absurd situations. It is packed with quotable dialogue and insightful commentary that resonate with the viewers.

8) Office Space

Office Space tells the story of Peter Gibbons, a software programmer, who is hypnotized during a therapy session and wakes up with a newfound apathy and confidence which helps him with his overbearing boss and the corporate culture. This movie perfectly captures the universal frustrations of modern work life which has resonated with the viewers.

9) Snatch

Snatch revolves around the London underworld with two intertwined storylines, one is about a stolen diamond and another is about a boxing match. The movie is fast-paced and has clever exchanges between the characters which have become memorable among the fans. The story is full of surprises and keeps the audience on their toes as they keep guessing.

10) The Truman Show

The Truman Show tells the story of Truman Burbank, an ordinary man living in the idyllic town of Seahaven Island. However, Seahaven is a massive enclosed set and is filled with actors and crew members and everything is controlled by Christof, the show’s creator and executive producer. The movie is often recognized as one of the best movies of the decade for its originality and thought-provoking themes. This is a satirical science fiction comedy-drama that has resonated with the viewers.

11) Seinfeld

Seinfeld tells the story of four friends, Jerry, Elaine, George, and Cosmo Kramer. The show revolves around their lives showing the mundane and often awkward situations that they face daily. The show incorporates excellent observation skills as it finds the funny small details of everyday life that are overlooked by most people. The absurdities of everyday life and the complexities of human life have been portrayed in this show.

12) Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Brooklyn Nine-Nine revolves around the New York City police department in Brooklyn. The notable characters are Jake Peralta, a goofy detective who hates to follow rules, and Captain Raymond Holt. The show masterfully balances humor with warmth and is not just only about jokes. The show has received widespread recognition and several accolades for its meaningful social commentary and comedy.

13) Gilmore Girls

Gilmore Girls revolves around Lorelai Gilmore and her daughter Rory. Lorelai and Rory share a close bond. Rory is driven and focused on her education. Lorelai and Rory navigate the world of love and relationships along with their drive to achieve their dreams facing challenges and overcoming them. It has sharp writing with characters that have immense depth which goes beyond the typical sitcom fare and resonates with the viewers to the core.

14) Black Books

Black Books tells the story of Bernard Black, a bookstore owner, as he thrives for his love of books and also has a disdain towards the customers. Bernard’s grumpy personality clashes with Manny’s attempts at normalcy bringing in chaos which the viewers have enjoyed while watching the show. The absurdities of human nature, the challenges of running a small business, and the importance of friendship drive the show.

15) In Burges

In Bruges tells the story of two hitmen, Ray and Ken, as they navigate through Burges after a job given by their boss goes wrong. They wait for further instructions with their contrasting personalities creating a tense and humorous atmosphere. The movie explores complex themes and has surprising emotional depth. It is both funny and thought-provoking at the same time.

16) Four Lions

Four Lions tells the story of a group of British Muslim men living in Sheffield. They decide to form their own terrorist cell with Omar as the self-proclaimed leader of the group. Their plans are comically inept and include things like training pigeons as bombers and paintball exercises. This is a dark comedy movie but explores dark themes with sensitivity and has been a unique and unforgettable movie among the viewers.

17) The IT Crowd

The IT Crowd revolves around the IT department of Reynholm Industries in London. Maurice Moss, Roy Trenneman, and Jen Barber are some of the notable characters each of whom have their unique characteristics. The IT Crowd often subverts sitcom tropes and defies expectations. It is silly, surreal, and even has dark moments that have resonated with the viewers.

18) Community

Community tells the story of a mix of college students especially the study group formed by Jeff Winger. Jeff is a disbarred lawyer trying to earn his undergraduate degree. The study group is the heart of the show which is made up of diverse individuals. The show includes themes of community, search for meaning, and the power of storytelling.

19) Mr. Bean

The show follows Mr. Bean who finds himself in familiar situations such as going to the beach, attending formal dinners, driving his car, etc. The show transcends simple humor and earns a level of respect associated with dramas. As Mr. Bean struggles with everyday situations his movements and facial expressions convey a range of emotions which is timelessly humorous.