Can murder be funny? What about complete destruction? If you answered “yes” to either of those, then you’re in the right place. Dark comedy movies are here to make you laugh when all seems to be lost.
And if you’re up for it, let’s get into what makes that so… psychotically (psychologically) appealing.
Admit it, there are people out there who laugh during the not-so-funny scenes of a movie. Like the death of a character who randomly trips and falls on a banana peel or something equally as strange.
So what is dark comedy and the psychological appeal of it?
Wondering what is dark comedy? Dark humor is a genre of comedy that finds something hilarious in the most surprising places. It’s called “dark” because it dives headfirst into difficult subjects, but in doing so, it lights them up by finding joy in darker corners of life.
Death, war, violence, politics, sex… no subject is off limits for this type of challenging comedy.
When it comes to dark comedies — also known as black and gallows humor — sinister and uncomfortable topics are discussed on comical terms which can both target and emphasize the contradictions between our society’s realities and its awkwardness.
In real life, these situations don’t usually add up (thank God). But sometimes they do. Often jokes like these are delivered at such peculiar or delightfully unexpected timings that leave people scratching their heads trying to keep up with high-level references made.
And that’s why we love them.
Related: Why We Love Bad Movies? 5 Hilariously “Bad” Movies That Are Good Anyway
You need to tap into deep, disturbing levels of discomfort… And below are black comedy movies that do just that.
Hilarious Dark Comedy Movies To Watch
1. American Psycho (2000)
Based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis, “American Psycho” centers around wealthy New York investment banker Patrick Bateman, who lives a double life as a serial killer.
The film is a chilling and comedic look into Bateman’s affinity for violence, materialism, and narcissism. It’s also a satirical take on yuppie culture in the 1980s.
2. In Bruges (2008)
Ray and Ken are two hitmen sent to the Belgian city of Bruges after a job gone wrong. The darkly comedic film showcases their struggle with guilt, redemption, and existential crises amidst the medieval backdrop.
The duo ends up in an array of absurd situations that are as hilarious as they are unexpected.
3. The Menu (2022)
This dark comedy tells the story of how one young couple went to great lengths to eat at an exclusive restaurant located on a remote island.
As the chef prepares meal after lavish meal – each with its own shocking surprise – themes of privilege, decadence, and culinary perfection arise. But don’t let that fool you – this movie will keep you laughing throughout.
4. Death At A Funeral (2007)
When their patriarch passes away, things start to unravel quickly for this dysfunctional family. Secrets are exposed while chaos ensues during funeral proceedings.
The British farce explores family dynamics, social etiquette, and all of the ridiculousness that comes along with death itself.
5. The Lobster (2015)
In this dystopian society, single people have just 45 days to find romance before they’re turned into an animal forever. That’s right – if they can’t find love within 45 days… poof!
This causes characters to start questioning love itself along with societal pressures and loneliness in general. Through its surreal plotline alone you’ll be provoked into thought about relationships in today’s world.
6. Parasite (2019)
The Kim family, facing many financial problems takes a chance when their son gets a job with the wealthy Park family. They all manage to work and live together, creating a parasitic lifestyle.
Parasite is shocking and hilarious but also deeply mature. The scenes of raw violence will leave you in shock.
Related: People Who Like Dark Humour Are More Intelligent: New Study Reveals
These black comedy movies break the mold while also being funny, making us think about what they’re really saying. Which one is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below!
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