10 Hilarious Comedy Movies Based on Books

Hollywood’s love for book adaptations is undeniable, but when it comes to comedy, things can get tricky.

Comedy novels don’t always translate well to the big screen, and sometimes filmmakers take creative liberties, turning serious books into laugh-out-loud comedies.

Here are 10 hilarious comedy movies based on books that show how well literature can pair with humor:

1. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Based on Madame Doubtfire by Anne Fine

Robin Williams shines as a divorced father who, in an attempt to spend more time with his kids, disguises himself as an elderly Scottish nanny. This hilarious role reversal plays with heart and humor, but the novel Madame Doubtfire is much darker in tone, dealing with issues of divorce and identity. The film lightens the mood with Williams’ iconic charm.

2. The Princess Bride (1987)

Based on The Princess Bride by William Goldman

A whimsical mix of romance, adventure, and comedy, The Princess Bride has become a cult classic. The novel, by William Goldman, offers a parody of classic fairy tales and is as witty as it is adventurous. The movie adaptation, starring Cary Elwes and Robin Wright, balances action and humor while keeping the quirky spirit of the original book.

3. The Graduate (1967)

Based on The Graduate by Charles Webb

This film might not seem like your typical comedy, but its dry, satirical tone makes it a classic. The novel centers around a young man’s affair with an older woman, which leads to a series of misadventures. The film adaptation, starring Dustin Hoffman, leans into the awkward humor of the situation, bringing a fresh comedic lens to the serious themes of the book.

4. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005)

Based on The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

An absurd and wildly imaginative tale, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy follows Arthur Dent as he navigates space after Earth’s destruction. Douglas Adams’ novel is a hilarious sci-fi adventure, and the film adaptation keeps that wry humor intact, with a quirky cast of characters and offbeat scenarios that are pure comedic gold.

5. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

Based on Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding

Renée Zellweger plays the loveable, self-deprecating Bridget Jones in this adaptation of Helen Fielding’s bestseller. The book's witty exploration of single life and romantic misadventures comes to life on screen with laugh-out-loud moments. The film is full of awkward situations, but at its heart, it’s about embracing who you are—no matter how messy life gets.

6. Clueless (1995)

Based on Emma by Jane Austen

A modern take on Jane Austen’s classic novel Emma, Clueless follows Cher Horowitz, a wealthy high school student who fancies herself a matchmaker. The film’s humor plays with the themes of social class and romantic misunderstandings, just as the book does, but it’s given a fun 90s makeover that keeps things fresh and hilarious.

7. Dr. Strangelove (1964)

Based on Red Alert by Peter George

Stanley Kubrick’s dark comedy Dr. Strangelove turns a serious Cold War thriller into a laugh-out-loud political satire. The novel Red Alert is a tense, realistic portrayal of nuclear war, but Kubrick’s adaptation takes a satirical approach, focusing on the absurdity of the situation and the personalities involved, all while delivering a sharp comedic edge.

8. Mean Girls (2004)

Based on Queen Bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman

A high school comedy that is still quoted today, Mean Girls is based on Rosalind Wiseman's non-fiction book about teenage girls and the social cliques they form. The film, written by Tina Fey, amplifies the humor by exaggerating the drama of high school life, all while capturing the book's insight into the social dynamics of adolescent girls.

9. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

Based on Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl

This stop-motion animation from Wes Anderson brings Roald Dahl’s children’s book to life in the most whimsical way possible. The story of a clever fox who outwits his animal enemies is filled with quirky humor and heartfelt moments. While the book is shorter and simpler, the film gives it a playful and distinctly Andersonian twist, making it a family comedy masterpiece.

10. Submarine (2010)

Based on Submarine by Joe Dunthorne

A quirky coming-of-age comedy, Submarine follows 15-year-old Oliver Tate as he navigates the trials of adolescence, relationships, and family. The novel has a dry, witty tone, and the film captures that perfectly, blending offbeat humor with heartfelt moments. It’s an exploration of growing up, making mistakes, and finding humor in awkward situations.

Whether they’re turning a serious novel into a laugh-fest or bringing the humor of a comedy book to life, these adaptations show that literature and comedy make a perfect match.

So, next time you’re looking for a good laugh, why not check out the book first?