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If you’re planning a road trip, why not add some laughter to your journey by watching some of the best road trip comedy movies? These movies are perfect for long drives and will keep you entertained throughout your journey. From classic comedies to modern-day hits, there’s a movie for everyone.
One of the most popular road trip comedies is “Dumb and Dumber” (1994), which follows two dim-witted friends, Lloyd and Harry, as they travel across the country to return a briefcase to its rightful owner. The movie is filled with hilarious moments and iconic scenes, making it a must-watch for any road trip.
Another classic road trip comedy is “National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983), which follows the Griswold family as they embark on a disastrous cross-country trip to the fictional amusement park, Walley World.
If you’re looking for a more recent road trip comedy, “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) is a great choice. The movie follows the dysfunctional Hoover family as they travel to California in a VW bus to enter their daughter Olive in a beauty pageant. The movie is both heartwarming and hilarious, making it a perfect choice for a family road trip.
Defining Road Trip Comedy Movies
Road trip comedy movies are a unique genre that combines adventure, humor, and travel. These movies often follow a group of friends or family members as they embark on a journey across the country or to a specific destination. The plot usually revolves around the various mishaps and misadventures that occur along the way, with plenty of laughs and comedic moments.
One of the defining features of road trip comedy movies is the sense of freedom and exploration that they evoke. These films often capture the excitement of hitting the open road and experiencing new places and people. They can be a great source of inspiration for those looking to plan their own road trip.
Another key aspect of road trip comedy movies is the characters. These films typically feature a diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and quirks. The interactions between these characters are often what drives the humor and plot of the movie.
Road trip comedy movies can also be a great way to explore different themes and issues. For example, some films may touch on topics such as friendship, family, or personal growth. These themes are often woven into the plot in a way that feels natural and organic.
Road trip comedy movies are a fun genre that can provide a great escape from everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or some travel inspiration, there’s sure to be a road trip comedy movie out there that will fit the bill.
Decade-Wise Classics
If you’re a fan of road trip comedies, you know that the genre has been around for decades. From the 1960s to the present day, filmmakers have been exploring the hilarity and hijinks that can ensue when a group of people hit the open road. Here are some of the classic road trip comedies from each decade.
1960s and 1970s
The 1960s and 1970s were a golden age for road trip comedies. During this time, filmmakers were experimenting with new styles and genres, and the road trip comedy was no exception. Here are some of the classic road trip comedies from this era.
- It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963): This star-studded comedy follows a group of strangers as they race across the country in search of buried treasure.
- Easy Rider (1969): This counterculture classic follows two bikers as they travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans in search of freedom and adventure.
- National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978): While not strictly a road trip movie, this comedy classic does include a memorable scene in which the Delta Tau Chi fraternity takes a road trip to a rival school.
1980s and 1990s
In the 1980s and 1990s, the road trip comedy continued to evolve. Filmmakers began to explore more complex characters and storylines, while still keeping the humor front and center.
- National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983): This comedy classic follows the Griswold family as they take a disastrous road trip to a theme park in California.
- Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987): This heartwarming comedy follows a mismatched pair of travelers as they try to make it home for Thanksgiving.
- Dumb and Dumber (1994): This lowbrow comedy follows two dim-witted friends as they travel across the country in search of a lost briefcase.
2000s and Beyond
In the 2000s and beyond, the road trip comedy continued to thrive. Filmmakers began to incorporate more modern elements, such as social media and technology, into their stories. Here are some of the classic road trip comedies from this era.
- Little Miss Sunshine (2006): This indie comedy follows a dysfunctional family as they travel to a beauty pageant in California.
- The Hangover (2009): This raunchy comedy follows a group of friends as they try to piece together the events of a wild night in Las Vegas.
- Due Date (2010): This comedy follows a high-strung expectant father as he tries to make it home for the birth of his child, with the help of an unlikely travel companion.
Top 10 Most Popular Road Trip Comedy Movies
Road trip comedies are a great way to escape into a world of laughter, adventure, and fun. Here are the top 10 most popular road trip comedy movies that you should add to your watch list.
1. Dumb and Dumber (1994)
Dumb and Dumber is a classic road trip comedy that follows the hilarious misadventures of two dim-witted friends, Lloyd and Harry, as they travel across the country to return a briefcase to its rightful owner. Directed by the Farrelly brothers, this movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves slapstick humor and absurd comedy.
2. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
National Lampoon’s Vacation is a hilarious movie that follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to Walley World. This movie is a classic comedy that combines slapstick humor with heartwarming moments, making it a perfect family movie.
3. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Little Miss Sunshine is a heartwarming road trip comedy that follows the Hoover family as they travel to California to participate in a beauty pageant. This movie is a perfect blend of humor, drama, and heart, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves movies that make them feel good.
4. EuroTrip (2004)
EuroTrip is a hilarious movie that follows four friends as they travel across Europe in search of adventure and romance. This movie is a perfect blend of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that push the boundaries of good taste.
5. Due Date (2010)
Due Date is a hilarious movie that follows an odd couple, Peter and Ethan, as they travel across the country to attend the birth of Peter’s child. This movie is a perfect blend of physical comedy and witty banter, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that keep them on the edge of their seat.
6. RV (2006)
RV is a hilarious movie that follows the Munro family as they embark on a disastrous road trip in a rented RV. This movie is a perfect blend of slapstick humor and heartwarming moments, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that make them feel good.
7. The Hangover (2009)
The Hangover is a hilarious movie that follows three friends as they travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party. This movie is a perfect blend of raunchy humor and absurd situations, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that push the boundaries of good taste.
8. Zombieland (2009)
Zombieland is a hilarious movie that follows a group of survivors as they travel across the country in a post-apocalyptic world infested with zombies. This movie is a perfect blend of humor, action, and horror, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that are a little bit different.
9. Road Trip (2000)
Road Trip is a hilarious movie that follows a group of college friends as they travel across the country in search of adventure and romance. This movie is a perfect blend of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that are a little bit naughty.
10. We’re the Millers (2013)
We’re the Millers is a hilarious movie that follows a drug dealer who hires a fake family to help him smuggle drugs across the border. This movie is a perfect blend of raunchy humor and heartwarming moments, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies that are a little bit different.
Cult Favorites
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, these cult classic road trip comedies might be right up your alley.
The Room (2003)
Tommy Wiseau’s The Room is often described as one of the worst movies ever made, but it has also gained a massive cult following. The film follows a love triangle between Johnny, Lisa, and Mark, and features some truly bizarre dialogue and plot twists. Despite its flaws, The Room has become a beloved classic for its unintentional humor and quotable lines.
Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)
Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle follows two stoners on a quest for the perfect burger. Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles, including a rabid raccoon, a racist police officer, and Neil Patrick Harris playing a fictionalized version of himself. The film has become a cult classic for its irreverent humor and depiction of stoner culture.
Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
While not strictly a road trip movie, Napoleon Dynamite follows the titular character and his friends as they navigate life in a small Idaho town. The film features a quirky cast of characters, including Napoleon’s eccentric family, his best friend Pedro, and his crush Deb. Napoleon Dynamite has become a cult classic for its deadpan humor and memorable characters.
Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
Set at a summer camp in the 1980s, Wet Hot American Summer is a parody of teen sex comedies. The film features a star-studded cast, including Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Bradley Cooper, and Elizabeth Banks. While it was initially a critical and commercial failure, Wet Hot American Summer has since gained a devoted cult following for its absurd humor and over-the-top characters.
International Road Trip Comedy Movies
If you’re looking for some comedy movies that take you on a wild ride across different countries, then these international road trip movies are a must-watch. Here are some of the best international road trip comedy movies that will make you laugh and entertain you throughout the journey.
1. EuroTrip (2004)
EuroTrip is a hilarious movie that follows a group of friends as they travel across Europe to find a girl. The movie is filled with funny moments and interesting characters that will keep you entertained. The movie is set in different countries such as Germany, France, and Italy, and each country has its own unique culture and quirks that the characters have to navigate.
2. The Inbetweeners 2 (2014)
The Inbetweeners 2 is a British comedy movie that follows four friends as they travel to Australia for a gap year adventure. The movie is filled with hilarious moments and relatable characters that will keep you laughing throughout the journey. The movie is set in different parts of Australia, and each location has its own unique culture and humor that the characters have to navigate.
3. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
The Darjeeling Limited is a Wes Anderson movie that follows three brothers as they travel across India on a train. The movie is filled with quirky characters and beautiful scenery that will keep you entertained throughout the journey. The movie explores the different cultures and traditions of India and how the characters navigate them.
4. Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
Y Tu Mamá También is a Mexican movie that follows two friends as they take a road trip across Mexico with an older woman. The movie is filled with humor, drama, and interesting characters that will keep you entertained. The movie explores the different regions of Mexico and how the characters navigate the cultural differences.
5. The Trip (2010)
The Trip is a British comedy movie that follows two friends as they travel across England on a food tour. The movie is filled with witty banter and hilarious impressions that will keep you entertained. The movie explores the different regions of England and the different cuisines that they have to offer.
Road Trip Comedy Movies Based on True Stories
If you’re looking for some road trip comedy movies that are based on true stories, you’re in luck. These films will have you laughing out loud while also giving you a glimpse into some real-life adventures.
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
This movie follows the Hoover family as they take a road trip from New Mexico to California so that their daughter Olive can participate in a beauty pageant. Along the way, they encounter several obstacles, including a broken-down van and some personal issues. Little Miss Sunshine is based on the real-life experiences of the film’s co-director, Valerie Faris, and her husband, Jonathan Dayton.
The Guilt Trip (2012)
The Guilt Trip stars Seth Rogen and Barbra Streisand as a son and mother who embark on a road trip together. The movie is based on the real-life experiences of screenwriter Dan Fogelman, who took a road trip with his mother to Las Vegas. While the movie takes some liberties with the actual events, it still captures the essence of a mother-son road trip.
The Endless Summer (1966)
While not a traditional comedy, The Endless Summer is a classic documentary about two surfers who travel the world in search of the perfect wave. The movie is based on the real-life experiences of director Bruce Brown, who was a surfer himself. The Endless Summer is a must-see for anyone who loves surfing or travel.
Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
Y Tu Mamá También is a Mexican road trip movie that follows two teenage boys and an older woman as they travel to a secluded beach. The movie is based on the real-life experiences of director Alfonso Cuarón and his brother, Carlos. While the movie has its comedic moments, it also deals with some serious themes, including class and sexuality.
Borat (2006)
Borat is a mockumentary that follows the fictional character Borat Sagdiyev as he travels across the United States. While the movie is not based on a true story, it does incorporate real-life events and people. Borat is a hilarious and sometimes cringe-worthy look at American culture through the eyes of a foreigner.
These road trip comedy movies based on true stories are sure to entertain you while also giving you a glimpse into some real-life adventures.
Final Thoughts
The road trip comedy genre has given us some of the most entertaining movies of all time. Whether you’re looking for a classic like “Dumb and Dumber” or a more recent hit like “Game Night,” there’s something for everyone.
Some of the most popular road trip comedies include “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” and “The Hangover.” These films have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by audiences today.
It’s worth noting that while some road trip comedies may rely on crude humor and slapstick, others offer more subtle humor and clever writing. For example, “Little Miss Sunshine” and “Sideways” both offer a more nuanced take on the genre.
No matter what your taste in comedy, there’s no denying the appeal of a good road trip movie. They offer a unique blend of adventure, humor, and heart that can’t be found anywhere else. So next time you’re planning a road trip of your own, consider adding one of these classic comedies to your watchlist for some extra entertainment along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-watch road trip comedy movies?
If you’re planning a road trip and want to get in the mood, there are some classic road trip comedies you should definitely watch. “National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983), “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987), “Dumb and Dumber” (1994), “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006), and “The Hangover” (2009) are all great choices.
Which Hollywood comedy movies are perfect for a road trip?
If you’re looking for Hollywood comedy movies to watch on a road trip, you can’t go wrong with “Due Date” (2010), “We’re the Millers” (2013), “Identity Thief” (2013), “The Trip” (2010), and “The Guilt Trip” (2012). These movies are all hilarious and perfect for a long drive.
What are some of the best comedy movies for a family trip?
If you’re traveling with kids, you might want to watch some family-friendly comedies. “The Muppets” (2011), “The Incredibles” (2004), “Zootopia” (2016), “Finding Nemo” (2003), and “Toy Story” (1995) are all great choices. These movies are funny and entertaining for both kids and adults.
What are some of the funniest father-daughter road trip comedy movies?
If you’re looking for father-daughter road trip comedies, “The Guilt Trip” (2012), “Tammy” (2014), “The Fundamentals of Caring” (2016), “The Leisure Seeker” (2017), and “Boundaries” (2018) are all great choices. These movies are funny and heartwarming, and explore the complexities of the father-daughter relationship.
Which family comedy movies are perfect for a family vacation?
If you’re planning a family vacation and want to watch some family-friendly comedies, “Home Alone” (1990), “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993), “Jumanji” (1995), “Night at the Museum” (2006), and “The Secret Life of Pets” (2016) are all great choices. These movies are fun for the whole family and will keep everyone entertained.
