The Best Comedy Movies Set In New York
Many of the best comedy movies set in New York are all-time classics. The city's energy makes it a natural setting for funny movies. They take all forms, too, from supernatural comedies like the Ghostbusters, to romantic comedies like Big, to social satires like Coming to America (which is also a rom-com). In a city with more than eight million people, there is a multitude of possibilities for humor. And since the Big Apple is home to everything from Broadway to Wall Street, there is a wealth of material to be explored. Comedy movies showing NYC and Manhattan at its most colorful have been earning laughs for decades.
Vote up the comedy films based in New York City that made you laugh the hardest. If you would like to add any titles, go right ahead, then check back to see how other users are ranking the funniest movies set in New York City.
- 1Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia
- Released: 1988
- Directed by: Penny Marshall
A kid suddenly finding himself trapped in an adult's body while navigating the corporate world - what could possibly go wrong? In this beloved film, our young protagonist experiences the joys and pitfalls of adulthood; from living in a cool Manhattan loft to dealing with grown-up problems. Equal parts heartwarming and funny, this movie is a nostalgic gem that reminds us of the magic and innocence of childhood.
- 2Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, John Amos
- Released: 1988
- Directed by: John Landis
An African prince decides that Queens, New York, is the perfect place to find a bride who'll love him for who he is, rather than his title. Hilarity ensues as he tries to blend in with the locals and navigate the dating scene - all while keeping his true identity a secret. This classic comedy showcases Eddie Murphy's comedic genius and offers an entertaining glimpse of 1980s NYC.
- 3Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Parker Posey
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Nora Ephron
Two feuding bookstore owners unknowingly fall in love through anonymous emails - talk about irony! It explores how sometimes the person you think you despise can turn out to be your soulmate. With its charming characters and witty dialogue, this delightful rom-com showcases NYC's Upper West Side in all its glory.
- 4Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Ivan Reitman
Who ya gonna call? In this iconic comedy, a team of eccentric scientists sets up shop as paranormal exterminators, saving New York City from supernatural threats one ghoulish encounter at a time. With its unforgettable catchphrases and hilarious antics, it's no wonder this film became a cult classic.
- 5Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Chris Columbus
Ever wondered what it'd be like to explore New York City with no adult supervision? In this hilarious holiday classic, young Kevin McCallister gets to find out first-hand after accidentally boarding the wrong plane and landing in the Big Apple. From the Plaza Hotel to Central Park, he stumbles upon new adventures while fending off those pesky burglars once more.
- 6Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Rene Russo
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Nancy Meyers
When a 70-year-old widower scores an internship at a trendy online fashion retailer, it's the ultimate culture clash. Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway shine as two unlikely friends who teach each other valuable life lessons while navigating the workplace together. This feel-good comedy will leave you rethinking your assumptions about age and friendship.
