Arnold Schwarzenegger's Funniest Comedy Movies

Hey guys! Let's dive into the hilarious side of the one and only Arnold Schwarzenegger. We all know him as the action hero who can take down armies single-handedly, but did you know he's also got some seriously funny bones? That's right, Arnold Schwarzenegger has starred in some absolute comedy gold, and we’re here to celebrate it. So, buckle up and get ready to laugh as we explore some of his funniest and most memorable comedy films.

Why Arnold Does Comedy So Well

You might be wondering, what makes Arnold so good at comedy? It's an interesting question, considering he started off as this massive, intimidating action star. Part of his comedic charm comes from his ability to play against type. He's this huge, muscular guy who can deliver deadpan humor with perfect timing. Think about it – the contrast between his physique and his comedic delivery is inherently funny. It's like seeing a tank trying to do ballet; the unexpectedness is what makes it work.

Another factor is his willingness to poke fun at himself. Arnold doesn't take himself too seriously, and that's incredibly endearing. He’s often the butt of the joke, which makes him relatable and likeable, even when he's playing over-the-top characters. Plus, his Austrian accent adds another layer of humor to his roles. Some of his lines become iconic simply because of the way he delivers them. Remember “It’s not a tumor!”? Pure comedic genius!

And let's not forget his chemistry with his co-stars. Whether it's Danny DeVito in "Twins" or Pamela Reed in "Kindergarten Cop," Arnold has a knack for creating memorable comedic pairings. He plays off his co-stars perfectly, creating a dynamic that elevates the humor of the entire film. Ultimately, Arnold's success in comedy comes down to a combination of his physical presence, his willingness to be self-deprecating, and his natural comedic timing. These elements, combined with clever writing and strong direction, have resulted in some truly unforgettable comedy films.

Top Arnold Schwarzenegger Comedy Films

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff – the movies! Here are some of the top Arnold Schwarzenegger comedy films that you absolutely need to watch (or re-watch) for a good laugh.

Twins (1988)

First up, we have "Twins" from 1988. This movie is a classic for a reason. Arnold stars alongside Danny DeVito as fraternal twins who were separated at birth. The premise alone is hilarious – imagine the genetically engineered Arnold Schwarzenegger being twins with the short, stocky Danny DeVito. The contrast in their appearances is comedy gold, and their on-screen chemistry is simply amazing.

The film follows Julius (Arnold) and Vincent (Danny) as they reunite and navigate the world together. Julius, who was raised in a pristine environment and educated to the highest levels, is completely naive to the ways of the world. Vincent, on the other hand, is a street-smart con artist who's always looking for his next big score. As they try to get to know each other and uncover the truth about their birth, they get into all sorts of hilarious situations. From bar fights to car chases, "Twins" is packed with physical comedy and witty banter. It’s a feel-good movie that will leave you laughing from beginning to end. The success of "Twins" really solidified Arnold's status as a comedic actor and proved that he could do more than just action films.

Kindergarten Cop (1990)

Next on the list is "Kindergarten Cop" from 1990. This is another perfect example of Arnold playing against type. He plays John Kimble, a tough-as-nails detective who goes undercover as a kindergarten teacher to catch a drug dealer. The juxtaposition of Arnold Schwarzenegger, the action star, trying to wrangle a class of unruly five-year-olds is absolutely priceless.

What makes this movie so funny is watching Kimble struggle to adapt to his new role. He's used to chasing criminals and firing guns, not dealing with temper tantrums and potty training. But as he spends more time with the kids, he starts to soften and even learns a thing or two about himself. There are so many memorable scenes in this movie, from Kimble leading the kids in a chant of "Boys have a penis, girls have a vagina" (to teach them about anatomy) to him calming down a crying child with a lullaby. "Kindergarten Cop" is a heartwarming and hilarious film that showcases Arnold's versatility as an actor. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good action-comedy.

Junior (1994)

In 1994, Arnold took on an even more unconventional role in "Junior." This time, he played Dr. Alex Hesse, a research scientist who becomes the first man to get pregnant. Yes, you read that right. Arnold Schwarzenegger as a pregnant man. The concept alone is outrageous, and the execution is even funnier.

The film explores the physical and emotional challenges that Alex faces as he carries a child. He experiences morning sickness, hormonal changes, and all the other joys (and pains) of pregnancy. Watching Arnold waddle around with a baby bump is inherently humorous, but the movie also delves into the more serious aspects of parenthood. He learns to connect with his maternal side and develops a deep bond with his unborn child. "Junior" is a surprisingly touching and thought-provoking comedy that challenges traditional gender roles. It's a bold and daring role for Arnold, and he pulls it off with aplomb. If you're looking for a comedy that's both funny and heartwarming, "Junior" is definitely worth a watch.

Last Action Hero (1993)

"Last Action Hero," released in 1993, is a meta-comedy that pokes fun at the action movie genre itself. Arnold Schwarzenegger plays Jack Slater, a fictional action hero who comes to life and teams up with a young boy named Danny Madigan (Austin O'Brien). The film is filled with self-aware humor and references to classic action tropes.

What makes "Last Action Hero" so unique is its willingness to break the fourth wall. The characters are aware that they're in a movie, and they often comment on the absurdity of the situations they find themselves in. The film also features cameos from a number of famous actors, who play exaggerated versions of themselves. "Last Action Hero" is a clever and inventive comedy that celebrates and satirizes the action genre. While it wasn't a huge box office success upon its release, it has since gained a cult following for its witty humor and self-referential style. If you're a fan of action movies and enjoy a good laugh, "Last Action Hero" is a must-see.

True Lies (1994)

Let's not forget "True Lies" from 1994, directed by James Cameron. While it's definitely an action film, it's also packed with comedic moments. Arnold plays Harry Tasker, a secret agent who leads a double life. His wife, Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis), thinks he's a boring computer salesman, but in reality, he's saving the world from terrorists.

The comedy in "True Lies" comes from the juxtaposition of Harry's two lives. He's a suave and sophisticated spy during the day, but at home, he's just a regular guy trying to keep his marriage alive. When Helen gets caught up in one of Harry's missions, the situation escalates into a series of hilarious and action-packed events. Jamie Lee Curtis also delivers a fantastic comedic performance as Helen, who transforms from a timid housewife into a fearless adventurer. "True Lies" is a perfect blend of action and comedy, with Arnold Schwarzenegger at his charismatic best. It's a thrilling and funny ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, no list is ever exhaustive, so here are a few honorable mentions that deserve a shout-out:

• The Running Man (1987): While primarily an action film, it has some darkly comedic moments.
• Red Heat (1988): A buddy cop film with James Belushi that has its funny scenes.
• Dave (1993): Arnold has a cameo in this Kevin Kline comedy, playing himself.

Why These Movies Still Hold Up

So, why do these Arnold Schwarzenegger comedies still hold up after all these years? Well, for starters, they're genuinely funny. The humor is timeless, and the jokes still land even today. But beyond that, these movies are also well-made and entertaining. They have strong plots, memorable characters, and plenty of action to keep you engaged.

Another reason for their enduring appeal is Arnold himself. He's a charismatic and likeable actor who brings a unique energy to every role he plays. Whether he's playing a tough cop, a pregnant scientist, or a fictional action hero, Arnold always delivers a memorable performance. Plus, these movies offer a nostalgic trip back to the '80s and '90s, a time when action comedies ruled the box office. They're a reminder of a simpler time, when all you needed for a good time was a big star, a clever script, and plenty of explosions.

Conclusion: Arnold's Enduring Comedic Legacy

In conclusion, Arnold Schwarzenegger has proven time and again that he's more than just an action hero. He's a talented comedic actor who has given us some of the funniest and most memorable films of all time. From "Twins" to "Kindergarten Cop" to "Junior," Arnold has shown a willingness to take risks and play against type, and it's paid off in spades. So, the next time you're in the mood for a good laugh, why not check out one of these classic Arnold Schwarzenegger comedies? You won't be disappointed. And remember, as Arnold himself would say, "I'll be back!" (for more laughs, of course!).