Funny movie characters are a staple in the entertainment industry. They often take a backseat to the main protagonist, but they can quickly become the scene-stealers and leave fans in stitches. While there are a plethora of choices, here are some of the funniest characters of all time.
John Belushi and John Candy — Animal House and Planes, Trains & Automobiles
John Belushi and John Candy were two iconic comedians and have delivered some of the most memorable comedic performances of all time. Belushi stole the show in the classic “Animal House,” playing the role of Bluto. Bluto was a rowdy and rebellious college student who was always mixing trouble and getting into trouble-filled shenanigans with his other mischievous classmates. John Candy, appeared in the classic “Planes, Trains & Automobiles”, playing the role of Del Griffith. Del was an innocent and will-meaning salesman who eventually stumbled onto a road trip with Neal Page (Steve Martin). Del’s slapstick mannerisms had audiences in stitches.
Will Ferrell — Anchorman and Elf
Will Ferrell is an actor and comedian whose hilarious performances often leave audiences in stitches. His most beloved films are “Anchorman” and “Elf”. In “Anchorman”, Ferrell plays the role of Ron Burgundy, a pompous and dim-witted anchorman who is used to getting his way. He quickly clashes with his new co-anchor and events lead to an all-out war between the two. In “Elf,” Ferrell plays the role of Buddy, an oversized elf who was accidentally sent to the North Pole when he was a baby. His fish-out-of-water antics quickly cause chaos in New York City and proves to be a great source of comic relief.
Jim Carrey — Ace Ventura and The Mask
Jim Carrey is a beloved comedian and actor known for his physical comedy and over the top expressions. He is best known for his roles in “Ace Ventura” and “The Mask.” In “Ace Ventura” Carrey plays a goofy and zany private detective whose antics lead to some hilariously funny scenes. The Mask, however, is Carrey’s best performance, bringing to life the character of Stanley Ipkiss. Stanley’s transformation after donning the magical mask brought some of the most outrageous and funny scenes in the film.
Eddie Murphy — Beverly Hills Cop and Coming to America
Eddie Murphy is another iconic comedian who has appeared in some hilarious films. In “Beverly Hills Cop”, Murphy plays the role of Axel Foley, an upbeat and streetwise cop from Detroit who gets into some hilarious antics while trying to solve a case in Beverly Hills. Murphy’s other classic movie is “Coming to America”, playing the role of Prince Akeem, a pampered African prince who escapes to the United States in search of true love. Murphy had audiences in stitches with his witty remarks and antics.
List of Ten Other Funniest Movie Characters
- Borat – Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan
- Austin Powers – Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
- Chunk – The Goonies
- Kenny – South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut
- Jack Sparrow – Pirates of the Caribbean
- Jack Lemmon – Some Like It Hot
- Gollum – The Lord of the Rings
- Leslie Nielsen – Naked Gun
- Louis Tully – Ghostbusters
- Ivan Vanko – Iron Man 2
Funny movie characters are often overlooked for the protagonists, but their comedic timing and delivery can quickly make them the highlight of any film. From John Belushi and John Candy to Eddie Murphy and Will Farrell, there have been a plethora of funny movie characters. In this article we highlighted some of the most beloved and funniest movie characters of all-time.
