The Best Black Comedy Movies Of The '90s

Over 1.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Black Comedy Movies Of The '90s
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite African American comedy films that were released in the 1990s.

Prepare for a plethora of Wayans brothers, because this is a list of '90s black comedy movies, ranked from best to worst. It's time to settle once and for all just which 1990s black comedy film is the best. It won't be easy, because '90s black comedies actually cover a lot of ground, from movies that feature action and adventure to films that sprinkle romance on top of the funny stuff. With your votes, though, one African American comedy from the 1990s will emerge victorious.

What are some of the best '90s black comedy movies? No list would be complete without Friday, the classic comedy co-starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker as a pair of stoners hanging out on a crazy Friday. As for the Wayans family, Major Payne, Mo' Money, and Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood also appear on this funny 1990s African American comedy films list. They join Eddie Murphy, who is a comedy heavyweight in more ways than one thanks to The Nutty Professor.

Several hilarious franchises also began in the 1990s, including Bad Boys, House Party and Rush Hour. Sister Act is another black comedy movie released in the '90s, and it also spawned a sequel.

Vote up your favorite African American comedy movies from the 1990s and vote down the films that just aren't as good.

Most divisive: Ghost Dad
Ranked by
  • Friday
    1
    Ice Cube, Chris Tucker, Nia Long
    450 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: F. Gary Gray

    This hilarious film follows the life of Craig, played by Ice Cube, and Smokey, portrayed by Chris Tucker, as they navigate their way through a typical day in their Los Angeles neighborhood. The movie is filled with unforgettable characters and laugh-out-loud moments, making it a must-watch for fans of 90s comedy. The dynamic duo's interactions with their eccentric neighbors and attempts to avoid trouble with a local drug dealer create an entertaining and memorable story that has stood the test of time.

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  • Bad Boys
    2
    Martin Lawrence, Will Smith, Téa Leoni
    287 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: Michael Bay

    In this action-packed comedy, Martin Lawrence and Will Smith star as detectives Marcus Burnett and Mike Lowrey, two Miami police officers who are tasked with recovering stolen drugs and catching the criminals responsible. Their contrasting personalities and comedic chemistry make for a highly entertaining film, filled with fast-paced action sequences and witty banter. The success of this 1995 movie led to the creation of a popular franchise, solidifying its place as one of the best comedies of the decade.

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  • Rush Hour
    3
    Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Tom Wilkinson
    286 votes
    • Released: 1998
    • Directed by: Brett Ratner

    This action-comedy film stars Jackie Chan as Inspector Lee, a Hong Kong detective, and Chris Tucker as Detective James Carter, a fast-talking LAPD officer. The two are forced to work together to rescue a kidnapped Chinese diplomat's daughter, leading to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and thrilling action sequences. The comedic chemistry between Chan and Tucker, combined with their impressive martial arts skills, makes this film a standout comedy of the 1990s.

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  • House Party
    4
    Robin Harris, Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin
    242 votes
    • Released: 1990
    • Directed by: Reginald Hudlin

    This classic 90s comedy stars Kid 'n Play as high school friends who decide to throw a massive house party while one of their parents is away. The film is filled with catchy music, entertaining dance sequences, and hilarious moments as the duo tries to keep the party under control amidst various obstacles. House Party showcases the unique talents of Kid 'n Play and remains a beloved comedy from the decade.

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  • Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood
    5
    Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Tracey Cherelle Jones
    280 votes
    • Released: 1996
    • Directed by: Paris Barclay

    This satirical comedy, starring Shawn and Marlon Wayans, parodies various popular films from the 90s that focused on life in urban neighborhoods. The movie follows the story of Ashtray, played by Shawn Wayans, as he moves in with his father and navigates life in the hood with his cousin Loc Dog, portrayed by Marlon Wayans. The film's clever humor and spot-on parodies make it a standout comedy of the decade.

  • Major Payne
    6
    Damon Wayans, Karyn Parsons, Michael Ironside
    213 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: Nick Castle

    Damon Wayans stars as the titular character, a tough and disciplined Marine who is tasked with training a group of misfit JROTC cadets. His unorthodox methods and strict demeanor lead to hilarious interactions with the cadets and their families. This film is filled with laugh-out-loud moments as Major Payne helps the cadets overcome their obstacles and learn valuable life lessons.

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