Australia is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The country has also made significant contributions to the field of cinema, particularly in the area of comedy. Australian comedy movies have gained a reputation for being hilarious, offbeat, and unforgettable. These films capture the unique Australian sense of humour and showcase the talents of some of the country’s finest actors and filmmakers. Whether you prefer indie comedies or blockbuster hits, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The Australian film industry has made some of the most beloved comedy movies of all time, many of which have become cultural touchstones. These films offer a glimpse into Australian life and culture, and they are sure to leave you laughing out loud. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the best comedy Australian movies that are sure to tickle your funny bone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the funniest films Australia has to offer!
1. Malibu Crush
Malibu Crush has firmly earned its place among the best Australian comedy movies. This movie has won many awards, including the 2022 Top Indie Film Award for Best Humour, the 2022 Jury Prize for Best Sound, the 2022 Los Angeles Film Awards for Best Actor, and the 2022 New York Movie Awards for Best Actor. These honours highlight the exceptional performances and humour that make Malibu Crush stand out as a beloved treasure in Australian comedy cinema.
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The film’s story revolves around two best friends from Pasadena (Los Angeles) who come up with a clever plan. They pretend to be top-notch film school students, all to express their love for an ex-girlfriend who now lives in the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia. This comedic journey combines the elements of romance and humour, taking viewers on a joyful ride filled with laughter and cross-continental adventures. It’s a film that effortlessly weaves clever storytelling with laughable moments, leaving an indelible mark on its audience and firmly securing its spot among the top-tier Australian comedies.
| Movie Name | Malibu Crush |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2022 |
| IMDB Rating | 7.7 |
| Genre | Comedy |
| Duration | 1 hour and 17 minutes |
| Main Casts | James Pratt, Billy White, Bella Valentini, Brittany Hockley, Daniel Musial |
| Director | James Pratt |
| Writer | James Pratt |
| Box Office Collection | - |
2. Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie's Dead Aunt)
Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie’s Dead Aunt) shines as one of Australia’s best comedy movies, artfully mixing humour and romance with a touching twist. This delightful film, which won a 2020 AACTA award, was brought to life by writer and director Monica Zanetti, marking her feature film debut. Inspired by her own 2016 stage play, this movie made history as the first Australian film to premiere at the Mardi Gras Film Festival in its 27-year history. It also charmed audiences, securing the Audience Award for Best Narrative Film at the festival. Following its successful debut, the film went on to captivate audiences at various other film festivals before hitting the big screen with a limited theatrical release on November 19, 2020.
The heartwarming story revolves around a 17-year-old girl, Ellie, who has a huge crush on her classmate Abbie. While trying to gather the courage to ask Abbie to the Year 12 formal, Ellie unintentionally reveals her true self to her mom, leading to a series of complications and some supernatural surprises. Enter her late aunt Tara, an ’80s lesbian activist who returns from beyond the grave to serve as Ellie’s wise fairy godmother, guiding her through the challenges of first love. Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie’s Dead Aunt) offers a unique blend of comedy and romance, making it a touching and entertaining Australian film well worth watching. So, to find out what happens next, go and watch the movie!
| Movie Name | Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie’s Dead Aunt) |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2020 |
| IMDB Rating | 6.1 |
| Genre | Comedy, Romance |
| Duration | 1 hour and 24 minutes |
| Main Casts | Zoe Terakes, Sophie Hawkshaw, Julia Billington, Marta Dusseldorp, and Rachel House |
| Director | Monica Zanetti |
| Writer | Monica Zanetti |
| Box Office Collection | $19,940 |
3. Rams
The Rams movie stands out as one of the top Australian comedy-drama films of 2020, offering a mix of humour and heart. It’s a remake of an Icelandic movie with the same title from 2015. The film made its debut at the CinefestOZ Film Festival on August 27, 2020, and later hit Australian cinemas on October 29, the same year, receiving positive feedback from audiences and critics. Notably, it was even nominated for Best Original Soundtrack, Cast, or Show Album at the 2021 ARIA Music Awards, highlighting its outstanding cinematic experience. The film is set in a remote part of Western Australia, where two unfriendly brothers, Colin and Les, are engaged in an amusing sheep-focused rivalry.
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They raise several flocks of sheep that have originated from the renowned bloodline of their family. Trouble develops when Les’s beloved ram falls sick with a rare, deadly disease, prompting authorities to order the mass elimination of all sheep in the area. While Colin opts for a secretive approach to trick the authorities, Les decides on a bold act of defiance. This movie delivers a heartwarming and humorous tale, exploring whether these clashing brothers can put aside their differences to reunite their family, rescue their flocks, and rebuild the fractured community. It’s a must-see for those who appreciate the delightful combination of comedy and heartfelt storytelling in Australian cinema.
| Movie Name | Rams |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2020 |
| IMDB Rating | 6.5 |
| Genre | Comedy |
| Duration | 1 hour and 58 minutes |
| Main Casts | Michael Caton, Sam Neill, Miranda Richardson, Asher Keddie, Hayley McElhinney |
| Director | Jeremy Sims |
| Writer | Jules Duncan |
| Box Office Collection | $4,376,781 |
4. Mary and Max
Mary and Max is undeniably one of the most outstanding Australian comedy films, blending comedy and drama with the charm of stop-motion animation. This 2009 independent gem, which had its premiere on the opening night of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, quickly made a mark in the world of cinema. The awards won by this film include the Annecy Cristal at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in June 2009 and the title of Best Animated Feature Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards in November 2009, highlighting its excellence. The film’s theatrical release in April 2009 by Icon Entertainment International was met with critical praise, solidifying its status as a beloved and well-regarded Australian cinematic treasure.
The heart of the film lies in the unlikely friendship between two pen pals, Mary and Max, who hail from different continents. Mary, a chubby, lonely 8-year-old Australian girl, and Max, a severely obese, 44-year-old American man living with Asperger’s syndrome, form a connection that transcends borders and challenges. The movie takes inspiration from its writer and director – Adam Elliot’s, two-decade-long relationship with his pen pal from New York, making it a touching and heartfelt story of friendship and human connection. Mary and Max is a heartwarming and comical masterpiece that beautifully showcases the power of unexpected bonds, earning its place among the finest Australian comedy films.
| Movie Name | Mary And Max |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2009 |
| IMDB Rating | 8.1 |
| Genre | Animation, Comedy, Drama |
| Duration | 1 hour and 32 minutes |
| Main Casts | Adam Elliot, Toni Collette, Eric Bana, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Murphy |
| Director | Adam Elliot |
| Writer | Adam Elliot |
| Box Office Collection | $239,096 |
5. Long Story Short
Long Story Short, a 2021 Australian romantic comedy film, has carved its place as one of the finest in the genre, offering a unique take on love and time. Directed and written by Josh Lawson, the film first graced Australian screens on February 11, 2021, courtesy of StudioCanal. Loosely inspired by the Indian film “Baar Baar Dekho” from 2016, it introduces us to Teddy, who finds himself trapped in a time loop on his wedding day to Leanne. In this interesting twist, Teddy experiences life rushing by, with each day squeezed into mere minutes. The film skilfully delves into how Teddy struggles with the outcomes of his choices, learns from his mistakes and aims to make the most of his quick moments.
Josh Lawson’s creation stands out not only for its inventive plot but also for its relatable characters and deep insights into the human journey. The film challenges conventional concepts of time, love, and self-discovery, making it a memorable addition to the realm of Australian comedy. With its mix of humour and genuine moments, Long Story Short captures the essence of real-life difficulties and personal development, leaving a lasting impact and rightfully earning its spot among the best Australian comedy movies.
| Movie Name | Long Story Short |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2021 |
| IMDB Rating | 6.6 |
| Genre | Comedy, Romance |
| Duration | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Main Casts | Rafe Spall, Zahra Newman, Josh Lawson, Dena Kaplan, Ronny Chieng |
| Director | Josh Lawson |
| Writer | Josh Lawson |
| Box Office Collection | $2.3 million |
6. Babyteeth
Babyteeth, the 2019 Australian coming-of-age comedy-drama movie directed by Shannon Murphy and adapted from Rita Kalnejais’s stage play of the same name, has rightfully earned a spot among the best Australian comedy movies. Premiering at the Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2019, the film offers a unique blend of humour and heart that hits a chord with audiences. Released in Australia on July 23, 2020, by Universal Pictures, it went on to receive critical praise and won nine AACTA awards, including the coveted Best Film award.
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The film’s charm lies in its tale of Milla, a terminally ill teenager played by Eliza Scanlen, who discovers love in the most unexpected place with Moses, a small-time drug dealer portrayed by Toby Wallace. While Milla’s parents, Henry and Anna, initially hold concerns about her unconventional relationship, the film ultimately celebrates the enduring power of love and connection. Babyteeth gracefully explores themes of love, family dynamics, and the fragility of life, all while balancing humour and heartfelt moments. This cinematic gem is a testament to human stability, the beauty of acceptance, and the significance of treasuring life’s precious moments, even in the face of adversity.
| Movie Name | Babyteeth |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2019 |
| IMDB Rating | 7.2 |
| Genre | Comedy, Drama, Music |
| Duration | 1 hour and 58 minutes |
| Main Casts | Eliza Scanlen, Toby Wallace, Essie Davis, Ben Mendelsohn, Emily Barclay |
| Director | Shannon Murphy |
| Writer | Rita Kalnejais |
| Box Office Collection | $1 million |
7. How To Please A Woman
In the world of Australian comedy movies, How to Please a Woman, released in 2022, stands out as a charming and insightful gem. The film’s story centres around Gina, a 50-year-old woman who’s navigating a career setback and a lacklustre marriage with her husband, Adrian. However, her life takes a surprising twist after receiving an unconventional birthday gift from her friends, leading her to launch a unique all-male house-cleaning service. As the business takes off unexpectedly, Gina must confront her desires and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
This heartwarming film does not just bring laughs; it also delves into the complexities of midlife, self-fulfilment, and embracing one’s desires. As Gina’s business venture unfolds, it has a ripple effect on her close-knit group of friends and the women in her town. How to Please a Woman is a touching and thought-provoking exploration of female empowerment, the courage to follow your heart’s desires, and the joy of living life authentically. It’s a must-see for anyone seeking an inspiring and humorous take on embracing life’s possibilities, even when faced with unexpected challenges.
| Movie Name | How To Please A Woman |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2022 |
| IMDB Rating | 6.2 |
| Genre | Romance, Comedy, Drama |
| Duration | 1 hour and 51 minutes |
| Main Casts | Sally Phillips, Alexander England, Erik Thomson, Hayley McElhinney, Asher Yasbincek |
| Director | Renée Webster |
| Writer | Renée Webster |
| Box Office Collection | - |
8. Kenny
Kenny is the 2006 Australian mockumentary, which is a delightful addition to the best Australian comedy movies. The film introduces us to Kenny Smyth, portrayed by Shane Jacobson, a hardworking plumber employed by a portable toilet rental company in Melbourne. Filmed on location in Melbourne, Victoria, and Nashville, Tennessee, this movie offers a refreshing and funny take on the neglected hero of the portable restroom world.
Kenny is a dedicated employee, aiming to ensure clean and functional public toilets at large corporate events. Despite his efforts, his work often goes unnoticed, and he encounters the disgust of those he serves. Nevertheless, Kenny approaches his job with uncompromising dignity, limitless patience, and an infectious sense of humour. Amongst the various events throughout the year, he must also manage his uncontrolled group of workers, deal with an ungrateful family ashamed of his work, and maintain diplomatic ties with a demanding ex-wife, all for the sake of his son, Jesse. Kenny is a heartwarming and hilarious journey that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary, earning its well-deserved spot in the realm of Australian comedy.
| Movie Name | Kenny |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2006 |
| IMDB Rating | 7.2 |
| Genre | Comedy |
| Duration | 1 hour and 39 minutes |
| Main Casts | Shane Jacobson, Eve von Bibra, Clayton Jacobson, Ronald Jacobson, Jesse Jacobson |
| Director | Clayton Jacobson |
| Writer | Clayton Jacobson, Shane Jacobson |
| Box Office Collection | $6,732,051 |
9. The Dressmaker
The Dressmaker is a 2015 Australian revenge comedy-drama that is a standout among Australia’s best comedy movies. Directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse and based on Rosalie Ham’s novel, this internationally co-financed film between Australia and the United States hits a unique balance between comedy and drama. It made its debut at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival in September and graced Australian and New Zealand theatres on October 29, 2015. Astonishingly, it quickly claimed the top spot at the box office in both countries and went on to become the 2nd highest-grossing Australian film of 2015 and the 16th highest-grossing film ever at the Australian box office.
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The narrative unfolds in the 1950s, focusing on Tilly Dunnage, brought to life by the talented Kate Winslet, a skilled dressmaker returning to her retro rural hometown of Dungatar in Australia. Expelled from the town in her childhood due to a mysterious incident, Tilly has refined her craft in Paris and re-emerges as a stylish and sophisticated woman. As Tilly establishes her dressmaking business, her stunning designs not only redefine the town’s women but also ignite remarkable changes in their lives. With the revival of buried secrets and the reopening of old wounds, Tilly’s presence evokes both admiration and controversy, forcing her on a journey of personal transformation and revenge. The Dressmaker is a captivating exploration of love, redemption, and the transformative power of fashion, all with a touch of dark comedy.
| Movie Name | The Dressmaker |
|---|---|
| Year Of Release | 2015 |
| IMDB Rating | 7 |
| Genre | Comedy, Drama, Western |
| Duration | 1 hour and 59 minutes |
| Main Casts | Kate Winslet, Liam, Judy Davis, Hugo Weaving, Sarah Snook |
| Director | Jocelyn Moorhouse |
| Writer | Rosalie Ham, Jocelyn Moorhouse, P.J. Hogan |
| Box Office Collection | $25 million |
Conclusion
Australia has gifted the world with a treasure trove of comedy through its remarkable movies, blending humour, heart, and a distinctly Australian flair. From Ellie & Abbie (& Ellie’s Dead Aunt) to “The Dressmaker,” Australian cinema continues to enchant audiences with its wit, charm, and relatable narratives. These films not only deliver laughter but also offer a delightful glimpse into Australian culture and its unique sensibilities. With their unforgettable characters, clever dialogue, and thought-provoking themes, these best Australian comedy movies showcase the country’s exceptional storytelling prowess.
Australian comedies offer a wide range of options that are well worth discovering and enjoying, regardless of your preference for a good laugh or an emotionally charged story. So, the next time you have an extreme desire for something to watch on screen, consider immersing yourself in the realm of Australian comedy. You never know, you might find a brand-new, cherished movie that makes you giggle and feel good inside.
