Although the combination of horror and comedy may seem absurd, the two genres mix well when done right. While one builds tension, the other releases it, leading to a roller-coaster of feelings. Despite how good this genre was, it took the commercial success of films like Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein for horror comedy to become a beloved genre.
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These gory comedies introduced inventive twists to the overused horror tropes that audiences were accustomed to, capturing their attention. The fusion of fear and laughter can be unexpectedly invigorating, as fans of horror comedies can attest. The more hilarious and terrifying they are, the more entertaining they become.
Surrendering to the euphoria induced by these dark comedies can be a fantastic way to spend a weekend or unwind after a stressful day at work. With so many films available on Netflix, finding the ideal one can be challenging at times — therefore, this list compiles the 19 best horror comedies to watch on Netflix.
Updated on Feb. 3, 2024 by Neville Naidoo: This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
19 The Conference (2023)
A Swedish horror comedy with some great dark elements to it, The Conference revolves around a group of employees attending a team-building event. However, while they’re meant to be bonding and learning to work better together, accusations of impropriety and corruption among the higher-ups rock the conference and turn it sour. At the same time, a scary and mysterious figure lurks and begins killing people.
The Conference Is a Fun Slasher
With satirical underpinnings, the film strikes far more of a horror tone than a comedic one, but does feature some dark humor too. With a great subplot that casts the true antagonists as greedy capitalists who are committing corporate malfeasance to enrich themselves at the expense of hardworking people, the film has a dour reap-what-you-sow vibe.
Along with plenty of gore and exciting kills, The Conference was clearly inspired by iconic slasher films like Friday the 13th and Halloween. Nevertheless, it still makes for a fun no-brainer watch for anyone just looking to be entertained.
18 He Never Died (2015)
Why don’t we get more Henry Rollins films where he gets to kick butt like he does in this one? The premise of He Never Died is excellent, and although the film plays like a supernatural comedy, it also has a lot of great action sequences.
The story, written and directed by Jason Krawczyk, follows the daily habits of Jack, a cannibal vampire with a fixed routine that prevents him from killing people. When his daughter goes missing, Jack must find her, but first, he must confront some unsavory people who don’t know who they are dealing with. The plot thickens when a local gangster gets involved, and the film is imbued with some great tension. Is it a spoiler to mention there is a twist as well?
Henry Rollins Is an Intimidating Vampire
As physically intimidating as Henry Rollins is, he brings a level of humor to his performance here that genuinely catches you off-guard. He’s downright hilarious when he’s not involved with some of He Never Died‘s grisly scenes, with the supporting cast helping give the surrounding film some genuine emotion underneath the bloodshed. It’s a vampire film that’s deliberately different from what you may have seen before, making it great for a first-time viewing.
17 El Conde (2023)
El Conde
- Release Date
- September 15, 2023
- Cast
- Jaime Vadell , Gloria Münchmeyer , Alfredo Castro , Paula Luchsinger
- Runtime
- 1hr 50min
El Conde stands out as one of the most original offerings of 2023. The film, written and directed by Pablo Larraín, stars Jaime Vadell, Gloria Münchmeyer, and Alfredo Castro. It presents an alternate world where Augusto Pinochet, Chile’s former dictator, has been a vampire for over 250 years.
After witnessing multiple historical events with similar outcomes, the immortal dictator has grown tired of life. He flees to Chile to become its ruler, but in the twilight of his life, has only bickering children to look after as they fight for their inheritance. To get rid of their father, they hire a nun to kill Augusto, who ends up stealing from them.
El Conde Reimagines History
A great horror comedy requires dedication to the plot, or you may just end up with a goofy rendition that flatters neither genre. El Conde delivers ably on this front, since it so wonderfully pulls the viewer into its reimagining of history with no compunction for its own antics. It’s never meant to take itself seriously, but confidently exists in its own realm — immersing viewers in a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
16 HollyBlood (2022)
It’s always great when horror films can offer something unique and different. HollyBlood was directed by Jesús Font, and follows Javi, an unremarkable high school student. Javi has a crush on a classmate named Sara, who is a fan of vampire teen dramas (a la Twilight). After a mix-up, Sara somehow believes Javi is a vampire, and he runs with the idea without realizing there are actual vampires in their neighborhood — and vampire hunters ready to get rid of them.
HollyBlood Parodies a Hollywood Cliché
International offerings usually don’t have the blessing of larger budgets as American films do, but their ideas and execution are often flawless. This Spanish horror film was no exception, and the film also did a great job of elevating horror comedy to new lengths by taking a trope squeezed to death in Hollywood and making fun of it. Óscar Casas does a terrific job in the lead role, with the film as a whole winning Best Art Direction at the Berlanga Awards in 2022.
15 Kaatteri (2022)
Kaatteri is another foreign offering hailing from India. The story is written and directed by Deekay, and tells the tale of a cursed village where a secret treasure is hidden. Be aware of the opening act. The film may look gruesome, as a certain scene involving electrical wires is reminiscent of gory moments in other movies. However, the film has a nice change of pace once it transitions to the present, where a team of bumbling men and women go to the village and begin desecrating the place to get the treasure.
Kaatteri Utilizes Physical Comedy
If you aren’t that familiar with Indian cinema, there’s often a level of physical comedy in it that borders on outrageous. In this film, that ludicrous comedy is provided by the local ghosts, who are furious at the disturbances caused by the treasure hunters. Their subsequent interactions spark several hilarious moments. Add to that a level of campiness that most horror fans will come to appreciate, and you’ll find an international horror comedy that may be worth your time.
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14 Goosebumps (2015)
Based on the beloved children’s novel series by R.L. Stine, Goosebumps was a fantastic adaptation that brought the concept to life in a creative way. It follows a young teenage boy named Zach (Dylan Minnette), who moves to a new town with his mother after his father passes away. There, he meets his new neighbors, which include: Hannah (Odeya Rush); her overprotective father (Jack Black); and a dorky friend from school named Champ (Ryan Lee). After fearing Hannah may be in danger, he and his friends unwittingly unlock sealed books that unleash monsters.
An amazing twist comes when Hannah’s father reveals that he is R.L. Stine, who wrote the books to cope with bullying. However, his supernatural imagination brought them to life, so he had to imprison the monsters within the books. Now, with many of his classic ghosts and monsters free, he and the kids have to work together to recapture all of them.
A Treat for R.L. Stine Fans
Jack Black is as charming and funny as ever, while the ghosts and monsters make for some great scares and thrills with a family tone to the film. As a result, it’s a fantastic horror comedy for audiences of all ages, serving as an introduction to the genre much the same way that Stine’s books did for young readers. A nostalgic treat for anyone who grew up reading R.L. Stine, the success of the film led to a standalone sequel and a Disney+ series.
13 All My Friends Are Dead (2021)
All My Friends Are Dead falls more into the category of black comedy, as its themes are more profound than most from this subgenre. The story, written and directed by Jan Belcl, touches upon the subject of parallel lives and how a single action can change the future — for better or worse. The story is set on New Year’s Eve, as a group of friends gathers to remember a deceased family member. At a party taking place after the tribute, a series of conversations leads to the exposure of dark secrets that leave broken hearts, betrayal, and death in their wake.
All My Friends Are Dead Is Unapologetically Crude
The film’s unapologetic nature is perhaps a byproduct of its Polish roots, but it’s also enhanced by this fact. Bombastic and gritty in many ways, there’s a lack of inhibition in some scenes that feels refreshing. The humor is crude, punctuated by drugs, sex, gore, and other elements that mash together to give it a decidedly raw edge. When paired with a plethora of licensed music tracks, the humor of this horror comedy gradually eclipses its grimier components.
12 Girls With Balls (2018)
This dark comedy, directed by Olivier Afonso, follows a women’s volleyball team when they become stranded in a forest while on a road trip to a game. While trying to navigate their way out, they are ambushed by a group of hunters who force them to participate in a twisted cat-and-mouse game. This French-Belgian comedy marks the feature-length directorial debut of Olivier Afonso, with performances provided by Manon Azem, Tiphanie Daviot, Margot Dufrene, and Louise Blachère.
Girls With Balls Is Incredibly Goofy
Girls With Balls is an entertaining film that blends gory and comedic elements while exploring themes of women’s empowerment, friendship, and survival. It may not be the most grisly horror comedy, but it certainly delivers 80 minutes of enjoyment for viewers. Although predictable at times, it remains a fun and engaging watch, opting to rely on the sheer goofiness of its premise instead of plain scares.
11 We Have a Ghost (2023)
Christopher Landon, the well-known writer and director of paranormal films such as Happy Death Day, Freaky, and Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse, presents another great film for Netflix. We Have a Ghost is more lighthearted than frightening, despite its haunted house setting.
The plot centers on the Presley family, specifically Kevin Presley (Jahi Winston), who moves into a cheap home that has been abandoned. Shortly after, Kevin realizes that the house is haunted by the ghost of a young man named Ernest (David Harbour). Despite his initial fear, Kevin realizes that Ernest is as friendly as can be, leading the two on a journey to discover Ernest’s past. That is, however, until the FBI gets involved.
David Harbour Dazzles in We Have a Ghost
Featuring Landon’s typical versatility, the film is different from other offerings, but still thoroughly enjoyable. Being based on a short story by Geoff Manaugh, it also serves as a wonderful adaptation of its source material, and features a terrific performance from David Harbour as the mute Ernest. Its lighter tone is perfect for those who want the supernatural, yet don’t want any blood or guts in their horror comedy.
10 Hubie Halloween (2020)
In Hubie Halloween, Adam Sandler plays Hubie Dubois, a kindhearted but eccentric resident of Salem, Massachusetts, who is dedicated to keeping the town safe during Halloween. Hubie is often ridiculed and bullied by his fellow townspeople for his role. However, when strange kidnappings start occurring in Salem on Halloween night, it’ll ultimately come down to Hubie’s knowledge of the town and its history to save the day.
Hubie Halloween Was a Popular Netflix Film
Hubie Halloween is another goofy Adam Sandler comedy that combines drama, humor, and horror elements to create an enjoyable story. With its mini scares, it serves as a fun way to kick off Halloween before diving into scarier films. This horror comedy is generally regarded as a fun watch, especially among fans of Happy Madison Productions, and was also crowned as Netflix’s most popular movie in 2020.
9 Marry My Dead Body (2023)
With an original story that delivers both laughs and jump scares, Marry My Dead Body is an entertaining Taiwanese film that follows Wu Ming-han, a no-nonsense homophobic and ghost-phobic police officer, as he collects evidence from the scene of a car accident.
Wu Ming-han unwittingly picks up a red envelope at the scene. But, unbeknownst to him, this is a traditional method of securing a “ghost marriage,” wherein one or both parties are beyond the grave. It turns out that the victim at the scene was a gay man named Mao Mao, who was discussing marriage with his boyfriend when he was killed. Now, Wu must marry Mao Mao against his wishes.
The Odd Paranormal Couple
The concept alone is hilarious, but what makes the film thoroughly enjoyable to watch is how well it’s all executed. Watching the initial hilarity when Wu has to deal with his marriage to Mao Mao is great, but as the story develops, it actually sees the pair working well together. Mao Mao uses his ghostly powers to help Wu’s cases as a cop, while the latter helps the ghost find peace in the afterlife.
8 The Curse of Bridge Hollow (2022)
Marlon Wayans and Priah Ferguson star as father and daughter in this horror comedy that combines Halloween-themed scares and humor. The plot follows the duo as they join forces to save their town from an evil spirit that possesses Halloween decorations and unleashes chaos. With some great comedic elements typical of Marlon Wayans, the film is thoroughly enjoyable, though not likely to win any awards.
Marlon Wayans Shines in The Curse of Bridge Hollow
The Curse of Bridge Hollow shines among audiences who go into it knowing not to take it seriously. Horror and comedy enthusiasts, especially those who love Halloween family movies, will find this one a treat. Given he’s now a lot more mature than he was back in his Scary Movie days, Marlon Wayans being at his comedic best adds to the movie’s innate charm.
Watch The Curse of Bridge Hollow
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7 Vampires vs. The Bronx (2020)
Just as the name implies, Vampires vs. The Bronx follows a group of teenage friends from the Bronx who must face a group of vampires in a heated battle to save their town from being taken over. While the human team is led by Miguel (Jaden Michael) and his friends, the vampires are led by a powerful and charismatic leader, Vivian (Sarah Gadon).
Vampires vs. The Bronx Is Enjoyable for Everyone
Combining comedy with serious issues like gentrification, this horror comedy makes for an enjoyable watch for both younger and older audiences. Although the plot may seem familiar, the execution gives it a fresh feel, making it a worthwhile watch. It is not scary in a way that would keep anyone up at night — it is simply a lighthearted horror comedy, made entertaining via the direction of Oz Rodriguez and its numerous comedic cast members.
6 Secrets in the Hot Spring (2018)
This Taiwanese horror comedy follows the ghoulish but hilarious adventure of three friends at a mysterious hotel. After meeting by chance for the first time at the hotel, they find themselves wrapped up in an adventure none of them will soon forget. After realizing the hotel is subsequently haunted after they explore its dilipidated grounds, will they be able to survive the spirits trapped inside?
Secrets in the Hot Spring is More Funny Than Scary
Despite being a horror film, Secrets in the Hot Spring managed to be heartwarming, as these friends stick together no matter how tough it gets for them. The plot is cleverly crafted and filled with humorous moments, definitely trending more towards comedy instead of horror. Nevertheless, it makes for a great pastime on Netflix, telling a unique tale suited for those in need of something different.
Watch Secrets in the Hot Spring
5 They Cloned Tyrone (2023)
A memorably funny movie with a unique concept and setting, They Cloned Tyrone sees a misfit trio thrust into the government conspiracy when weird events suggest something abnormal is afoot. It follows a drug dealer named Fontaine, who constantly has to battle his customers and sex workers to make sure he’s paid. When a crazy turn of events leads him and other characters to a secretive lab, they learn that nefarious experiments are being conducted on impoverished people.
They Cloned Tyrone Is a Unique Horror Comedy
The film is hilarious, with plenty of R-rated language and a unique vibe that provides a great contrast to the relatively terrifying plot at play. Featuring John Boyega and Teyonah Parris, the film also sees Jamie Foxx in one of his funniest roles yet. Despite all the craziness, the film strikes a dark and serious tone once it becomes clear what actually is going on, which flips the film into an allegory for modern-day racism.
4 The ‘Burbs (1989)
For a hit of nostalgia, The ‘Burbs is a classic horror comedy from 1989. The excellent cast features Tom Hanks, Bruce Dern, Carrie Fisher, and Corey Feldman, and was produced by Ron Howard. Hanks plays Ray Peterson, a suburban man who comes home for a week-long vacation. Strange happenings next door cause him and his other neighbors to suspect that his immediate neighbors may be ritualistic murderers.
A Nostalgic Horror Comedy Throwback
Aside from its great cast, the film features plenty of slapstick comedy as the bungling friends decide to investigate what’s really going on. Similar to other classic 1980s comedies, watching The ‘Burbs now is enough to make anyone nostalgic for days gone by, when films were so unashamedly ridiculous and unafraid to be that way.
The fact that it starred Tom Hanks the same year he received his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for Big, made it all the more great. Seeing Hanks in such a fun, uninhibited role before his career became defined by all the acclaim to come.
3 Little Evil (2017)
This horror comedy directed by Eli Craig features Adam Scott as Gary, a man who is torn between his love for a woman named Samantha, and his fear of Samantha’s 6-year-old son, Lucas. When strange things begin to happen in their home, Gary consults a priest who confirms his fear that Lucas is the Antichrist. With the help of his group of misfit friends, Gary must stop Lucas from taking over the world.
Little Evil Elevates a Familiar Storyline
Little Evil takes on a familiar storyline, but the well-crafted script and exceptional cast make the movie highly enjoyable and hilarious. The film balances horror and comedy with heartfelt moments, leaving a significant impact on the audience via Adam Scott’s compelling performance. Though it may be campy and sometimes silly, it manages to be so touching that some consider it a rare and surprising gem.
2 The Babysitter (2017)
McG’s The Babysitter follows a young boy named Cole (Judah Lewis) who has a crush on his teenage babysitter Bee (Samara Weaving). When his parents leave town for the weekend, Cole is excited to have Bee all to himself. However, as the night goes on, Cole discovers that Bee and her friends are part of a demonic cult, and they need his blood for a ritual sacrifice.
The Babysitter Is a Netflix Classic
Uninhibited and very graphic at times, the movie delivers on the dark humor with a modern vibe, complete with unexpected twists and thrilling scenes. Unlike the stereotypical horror genre, this slasher flick presents a refreshing and surprisingly humorous storyline, made more enthralling by the performances of both Samara Weaving and Judah Lewis. Both this film and its 2020 sequel, The Babysitter: Killer Queen, are available on Netflix for fans of gory horror flicks to enjoy.
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1 Day Shift (2022)
In this horror comedy, Jamie Foxx plays the hardworking cleaner Bud Jabonski, whose side hustle is vampire hunting. Day Shift finds him battling vampires and other supernatural creatures as he tries to uncover a dark underworld of crime and corruption. Netflix’s vampire-hunting comedy also features some great cameos and supporting acts from the likes of Snoop Dog, Dave Franco, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Meagan Good, Karla Souza, Steve Howey, and Scott Adkins.
Day Shift Is a Terrific Horror Comedy
The action-packed scenes in this vampire horror film are so phenomenal, it can be considered as one of the most action-packed vampire films ever made. The combination of Foxx, Howey, and Adkins as they battle vampires is undoubtedly one of the main highlights of the film. Given its success and popularity, it’s no surprise that a sequel is in the cards. With its vibrant colors and high-octane action, this fun horror flick is easily one of the best of the best when it comes to horror comedies on Netflix.
Need more horror comedies? Check out our picks for the best horror comedies of all time below:
