6 Underrated Comedies Praised on Rotten Tomatoes

Comedies often spark diverse opinions, both from audiences and critics. While some films face harsh reviews from professional critics, they may garner significant appreciation from viewers. Based on data from Rotten Tomatoes, we explore six underrated comedies that received poor critic ratings but were celebrated by the audience.

6 Underrated Comedies Praised on Rotten Tomatoes

1. Dirty Work (1998)

Directed by Bob Saget, Dirty Work follows brothers Norm Macdonald and Artie Lange as they start a revenge-for-hire business. Despite a budget of $13 million, the film only grossed $10 million. Critics were harsh, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of just 21%. However, audiences appreciated the humor, awarding it a score of 66%.

2. Tommy Boy (1995)

This classic features Chris Farley as Tommy Callahan III, alongside David Spade. The film, which revolves around a struggling auto parts company, opened to mixed critiques. Critically, it holds a 40% score, with Roger Ebert including it on his “Most Hated” list. In contrast, audiences loved it, giving it a remarkable 90% score.

3. Half Baked (1998)

Starring Dave Chappelle, Half Baked follows Thurgood Jenkins and his friends as they try to raise bail for a buddy. Critics gave it a low score of 28%, dismissing it as unsubstantial. Yet, it developed a cult following, with an impressive audience score of 81% on Rotten Tomatoes.

4. Super Troopers (2001)

Super Troopers showcases Vermont state troopers attempting to save their jobs amidst budget cuts. Despite mixed reviews—The New York Times labeled it “bad and tasteless”—audiences felt differently. It has a critic score of 37% compared to a high audience score of 90%.

5. Harlem Nights (1989)

Eddie Murphy directed and starred in Harlem Nights, alongside comedy legends Richard Pryor and Redd Foxx. Set in Prohibition-era Harlem, the film faced criticism, earning just 27% from critics. However, the audience response was more favorable, granting it an 80% score.

6. Grandma’s Boy (2006)

Produced by Adam Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions, Grandma’s Boy tells the story of a video game tester living with his grandmother. Critics were not impressed, giving it a mere 15% score. On the other hand, the audience enjoyed the film, awarding it an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

These six films demonstrate how audience enjoyment can diverge significantly from critical reception. The underappreciation by critics allows these comedies to shine brightly in the eyes of fans, highlighting the subjective nature of humor.