Michael Keaton in 'Beetlejuice'
The world of cinema promises an abundance of laughter in 2024. As we eagerly await the comedic delights of the new year, we took a moment to ask fans which upcoming films have captivated their imaginations. And now that we've compiled the responses of over 8,000 moviegoers, we're counting down the most anticipated comedies of 2024.
This list showcases the diverse range of humor set to grace our screens. With a lineup that includes everything from the quirky antics of Garfield to the anticipated return of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, there's no shortage of fun and laughter in store.
So, grab your popcorn and get ready to watch these comedic tales unfold.
11. The Book of Clarence
LaKeith Stanfield in 'The Book of Clarence'
Kicking off our list is The Book of Clarence, a satirical comedy directed by visionary filmmaker Jeymes Samuel (The Harder They Fall). This bold new take on the timeless Hollywood era biblical epic stars LaKeith Stanfield as Clarence, a down-on-his-luck guy in Jerusalem who sees a way out. All he has to do emulate that Jesus fellow who's been making so many waves.
Scheduled for release on January 12, 2024, the trailer for The Book of Clarence has already garnered attention for its witty dialogue and intriguing plot - stirring up considerable excitement among audiences and critics alike.
This film is set to be one of the early big hits of the year, promising an original and insightful cinematic experience.
10. Drive-Away Dolls
Geraldine Viswanathan and Margaret Qualley in 'Drive-Away Dolls'
Scheduled for release on February 23, 2024, director Ethan Coen's comedy road film Drive-Away Dolls is a blend of humor, heart and a touch of pure mayhem.
Starring Margaret Qualley, Geraldine Viswanathan, Beanie Feldstein, Colman Domingo, Pedro Pascal, Bill Camp and Matt Damon, Drive-Away Dolls follows young women on a spontaneous road trip to Tallahassee that intersects with the actions of a group of inept criminals.
This movie, which has been steadily gaining traction for its clever script and engaging cast, is set to offer a refreshing twist on the genre and carries the potential to become a fan favorite.
9. Harold and the Purple Crayon
While you may have already seen this movie featured on our 8 Most Anticipated Animated Movies of 2024 list, this film also scored high with our comedy movie lovers.
Harold and the Purple Crayon, set for release on August 2, 2024, marks veteran animation director Carlos Saldanha's live-action debut. This upcoming fantasy film, adapted from Crockett Johnson's beloved children's book, follows Harold, whose creative and colorful journey promises a whimsical adventure brought to life through the eyes of a young boy and his magical purple crayon.
Starring Zooey Deschanel, Zachary Levi and Ravi Patel, Harold and the Purple Crayon is anticipated to be a family favorite, blending imagination with the timeless joy of storytelling.
8. My Ex-Friend's Wedding
Ariana DeBose and Amanda Seyfried, two of the stars of 'My Ex-Friend's Wedding'
May 10, 2024, marks the arrival of My Ex-Friend's Wedding, a comedic gem directed by the talented Kay Cannon. Four friends reunite after receiving a candid, possibly tipsy voicemail from a bride-to-be – their former best friend. Convinced their ex-friend is about to make a monumental mistake, they embark on an impulsive mission to halt the wedding.
The film stars the charismatic ensemble of Amanda Seyfried, Ariana DeBose, Chloe Fineman and Megan Stalter, who bring to life a story of friendship, chaos and last-minute revelations. My Ex-Friend's Wedding promises a rollercoaster of emotions, humorously exploring the bonds of friendship and the unpredictable twists of life.
7. Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Sonic in 'Sonic the Hedgehog 2'
Another one of our 8 Most Anticipated Animated Movies of 2024 makes an appearance on the Most Anticipated Comedy Movies list. Sonic the Hedgehog 3, slated for a theatrical release on December 20, 2024 and directed by Jeff Fowler, is the much-awaited sequel in the popular franchise.
This action-adventure comedy will continue the thrilling escapades of Sonic, voiced by Ben Schwartz, with Idris Elba returning as Knuckles. The series is known for its high-energy storytelling and visually stunning animation, and this installment is poised to captivate audiences of all ages.
6. The Garfield Movie
Garfield in 'The Garfield Movie'
The final title on this list that also appears on our 8 Most Anticipated Animated Movies of 2024 list, The Garfield Movie brings back the beloved lasagna-eating feline in an animated adventure scheduled for release on May 24, 2024.
Directed by Mark Dindal, this family-friendly film showcases the voice talents of Chris Pratt as Garfield and Samuel L. Jackson as his father, Vic. Following an unexpected reunion, Garfield embarks on a wild outdoor journey with his long-lost father and his canine pal, Odie.
With a mix of classic Garfield humor and a dash of heartwarming family dynamics, this movie is set to be a purr-fectly delightful treat for fans of all ages.
5. Wicked: Part One
Wicked: Part One, scheduled for release on November 27, 2024, is the first installment of the highly anticipated adaptation of the hit Broadway Wizard of Oz prequel.
John H. Chu directs this musical fantasy, telling the story of Elphaba's evolution into the Wicked Witch of the West. Cynthia Erivo stars as Elphaba, alongside Ariana Grande as the ever-popular Glinda. Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum fill out the main cast.
The anticipation for Wicked: Part One reflects the enduring popularity of the original story and the eagerness of audiences to experience this classic tale through a fresh cinematic lens. This adaptation of the stage show is expected to bring a new dimension to the much-loved story, blending mesmerizing visuals with Erivo's and Grande's captivating interpretations of the characters.
4. Mean Girls
The new 'Mean Girls'
Mean Girls, debuting with a fabulous flair on January 12, 2024, isn't just a movie – it's a social phenomenon reborn! This time, it's in the form of a snazzy adaptation of Tina Fey's Broadway musical, spruced up from the legendary 2004 film.
Coming in fourth on our list, this revamped version of Mean Girls brings a fresh take to the well-loved narrative. Starring the vivacious Angourie Rice as Cady Heron and the ever-sparkling Reneé Rapp as Regina George, this movie is like the high school reunion you actually want to attend.
The anticipation for Mean Girls is palpable, as fans eagerly await to see how this classic tale of high school hierarchy and friendship dynamics unfolds in a new decade. Expect a whirlwind of smart quips, sassy comebacks, and, of course, a dash of pink – because on Wednesdays (and every other day), we're all about Mean Girls.
3. Bad Boys 4
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence in 'Bad Boys for Life'
Gear up for Bad Boys 4, blasting into theaters on June 14, 2024. It's the sequel where Will Smith and Martin Lawrence prove yet again that age is just a number when it comes to high-speed chases and cracking jokes under pressure.
Directed by the dynamic duo Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who also directed 2020's Bad Boys for Life, Bad Boys 4 is poised to a be another buddy-cop movie masterclass. This latest escapade brings more than just nostalgia. With new faces joining the good ol' wise-cracking pair, the film promises a cocktail of action, comedy, and perhaps a bit of father-son drama (but the fun kind, naturally).
2. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
Strap on your proton packs and get ready for a chilly adventure because Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is chilling its way into theaters on March 29, 2024. Directed by Gil Kenan, this icy installment features the beloved Ghostbusters, both new and old, tackling an ancient artifact that's spewing all sorts of icy spectral shenanigans.
With Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, Paul Rudd and Finn Wolfhard returning and appearances by many of the original Ghostbusters crew, this entry in the Ghostbusters series is like a family reunion – if your family consisted of ghost-chasing, wise-cracking heroes.
As the Spanglers and their associates gear up to save the world from a second ice age, this film promises to be a cool blend of spooks, laughs and, of course, some frosty ghosts.
1. Beetlejuice 2
Michael Keaton in the first 'Beetlejuice'
"Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetleju—" Wait, let's save it for the big screen on September 6, 2024!
Coming in at number one on our list, Beetlejuice 2 is the comedy film our fans are looking forward to the most in the year ahead. Be prepared, because the ghostly shenanigans are back, and they're more spirited than ever.
Directed by Tim Burton, master of the macabre, this sequel to the 1988 cult classic Beetlejuice promises to be a phantasmagorical extravaganza, resurrecting the ghosts with the most for a long-awaited encore. Beetlejuice himself, Michael Keaton, is back for another spin, along with Catherine O'Hara and Winona Ryder from the first installment. New cast members include the up-and-coming Jenna Ortega, the elegant Monica Bellucci and the mesmerizing Willem Dafoe.
Beetlejuice 2 promises to be a supernatural spectacle. Imagine a world where the lines between the living and the dead blur with whimsical ease, where each scene is a canvas for Burton's signature gothic aesthetic, sprinkled with a generous dose of dark humor. We're buckling up for a thrillingly bizarre ride filled with laughter, frights and a touch of the absurd.
As the release date approaches, the excitement is palpable, almost like a ghostly whisper in the air, beckoning fans to chant "Beetlejuice" thrice — but perhaps with a little more caution this time. After all, when it comes to Beetlejuice, you never quite know what's lurking behind the next tombstone...
That's a Wrap!
As we close the curtains on our sneak peek into 2024's comedy movie lineup, it's clear that we're in for a year of unstoppable laughter, unexpected twists and maybe a few ghostly encounters.
From the high school hallways of Mean Girls to the supernatural hijinks of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire and the whimsically weird world of Beetlejuice 2, each movie promises to deliver its unique brand of comedy.
So, grab your popcorn (and maybe a ghost trap or two), and mark your calendars. Whether you're in it for the laughs, the nostalgia or just to see a cat eat lasagna in high-definition animation, 2024 is set to tickle your funny bone and maybe even spook you a little.
And remember, if you hear someone chanting Beetlejuice three times at the theater, it might just be the best time to start the show!
But why wait until 2024 for a good laugh? For those craving some comedic delight right now, check out Wonka. Prepare to be whisked away into a world of whimsy and wonder!
