Ah, 1990! When the Internet was a mere baby, Ice Ice Baby was a legitimate hit, Nelson Mandela was released from prison, the Hubble Space Telescope was launched, and The Simpsons was gracing our TV screens for the first time. Oh, and who can forget? It was a bumper year for comedy movies, with one film standing out as the best comedy movie of 1990.
Get set to enjoy a trip down memory lane and revisit the films that tickled our funny bones and warmed our hearts in 1990.
The Runners Up For Best Comedy Movie Of 1990
Just shy of being the funniest of the year were some unforgettable films that deserve their moment in the spotlight:
Using our own unique algorithm we have developed a score to rate movies based on a combination of online review ratings and box office success to create our So Binge Score (SBS).
Pretty Woman
So Binge Score: 7.1
This romantic comedy is a modern Cinderella story. Richard Gere plays Edward, a wealthy businessman who hires a vivacious escort, Vivian (Julia Roberts), to accompany him to social events. As they spend more time together, they fall in love, despite their vastly different worlds.
Kindergarten Cop
So Binge Score: 5.3
Kindergarten Cop stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as a tough-as-nails detective, John Kimble, who goes undercover as a kindergarten teacher to apprehend a dangerous criminal. It hilariously explores the chaos, tantrums, and sticky situations Hollywood’s action hero encounters dealing with five-year-olds while solving his case.
Back to the Future Part III
So Binge Score: 5.1
Marty and Doc are back but this time they are in the Wild West of 1885, where Marty (Michael J. Fox) goes back in time to rescue Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd), who’s stuck in the past. Besides the wild adventures of Marty and Doc, the movie delivers on the rom-com front with the love story between Doc and the school teacher Clara.
Despite the Western setting, Back to the Future Part III maintained its comedic timing and sci-fi elements providing another truly ‘timeless’ gem.
Three Men and a Little Lady
So Binge Score: 4.8
This charming sequel follows the story of three bachelors trying to cope with raising a little girl. The sequel revolves around the twist when Sylvia, the girl’s mother, decides to move to the UK and marry her British boyfriend, thereby causing a series of comedic and emotional events.
Starring Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson, the movie captures the essence of parenthood through the lens of humour, camaraderie, and unexpected paternal affection.
Best Comedy Movie of 1990: Home Alone
In the comedic playground of 1990, one film stood tall, cheeky grin and all — Home Alone. This holiday classic took the crown with a So Binge Score of 7.46, making it the best comedy movie of 1990 lead by the then 8-year-old Macaulay Culkin.
The concept of a young boy being left behind while his family goes on vacation struck a chord with audiences, and Macaulay Culkin’s breakout performance as Kevin McCallister captivated viewers with his natural comedic timing and mischievous charm.
The film’s blend of slapstick comedy, clever set pieces, and inventive pranks generated had audiences in awe, while also exploring themes of family, friendship, and self-reliance. With its iconic catchphrases and unforgettable moments, Home Alone became a cultural phenomenon and has maintained its popularity as a beloved holiday classic, cementing its status as a true comedy classic.
Plot
Home Alone takes us on an unbelievable ride as young Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, finds himself accidentally left behind while his family goes on vacation. With the house to himself, Kevin must protect his home from two dimwitted burglars, played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. This inconceivable comedy delivers a perfect mix of slapstick humour, and heartfelt moments as Kevin outsmarts and pranks the bumbling thieves in the most hilarious ways imaginable.
The Cast
The cast of Home Alone featured a talented ensemble who brought their characters to life with exceptional performances. While Joe Pesci was perhaps the biggest known name of the movie partnering with Daniel Stem as the bumbling burglars. Macaulay Culkin shone as the mischievous and resourceful Kevin McCallister.
Awards
While Home Alone received critical acclaim and was a hit with audiences worldwide, the movie didn’t capture any major Oscars or Golden Globe awards.
Watch Trailer
So there you have it — 1990 was a stellar year for comedy with Home Alone leading the pack.
How to watch Home Alone
Need more 90’s check out the Best 100 Movies of the 90s.