Ever thought you’d snort popcorn through your nose while a phantom pranks on screen? Strap in for a spin through cinema’s hall of hilarity where the ghosts aren’t here to haunt— they’re here to entertain. Meet the ectoplasmic entertainers who turn spine-chills into belly laughs and demonstrate that the best spirits come with a punchline. Forget the usual shriek-fests. These specters are all about the giggle fits. So dim the lights, cue the evil… wait, scratch that—cue the uproarious laughter and learn about the top 12 funniest ghost movies that will make you laugh so hard, your neighbors might think you became a poltergeist!
Ghostbusters (1984)
Who ya gonna call when you need a laugh with your spook? “Ghostbusters“, one of the most iconic and funniest ghost movies of all time. This classic 1984 comedy blends scares with slapstick, featuring spirits that are as whimsical as they are weird. Remember the green, gluttonous ghost, Slimer? He’s not your typical frightful apparition; instead, he’s the life (or afterlife) of the party, chomping through hot dogs and leaving a trail of ectoplasmic mess. And let’s not overlook the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, a giant, fluffy destructor who brings a whole new meaning to a “sugar rush”. “Ghostbusters” proves that even ghost hunting can have its lighter moments. Who knew saving New York from paranormal threats could be so hilariously chaotic?
Beetlejuice (1988)
Ever thought a haunted house could use a little sprucing up with some anarchic flair? Enter “Beetlejuice,” the ghost with the most who turns every scare into a circus. This 1988 Tim Burton classic spins a ghost story on its head, injecting a heavy dose of bizarre comedy that’s as unconventional as its striped-suited protagonist. Beetlejuice himself is the epitome of mischief, with a knack for twisted humor and chaotic tricks. Whether he’s turning a dinner party into a possessed musical or morphing into a snake to spook the living daylights out of the new homeowners, he’s the spirit you call when you want to laugh more than scream. Just remember, say his name three times at your own risk!
The Evil Dead (1981)
Can a cabin getaway ever be just a simple escape? Not if you’re tuning into “Evil Dead”! This cult horror classic offers a darkly comedic twist on the supernatural survival tale, where the scares are as sharp as the wit. Yes, there are terrifying demons and a mysterious book that should definitely have stayed closed, but there’s also a chainsaw-handed hero named Ash who brings a whole new level of sass to dealing with the undead. His one-liners are almost as deadly as his chainsaw. “Evil Dead” mixes gore with guffaws in a way that makes you want to cover your eyes one minute and burst out laughing the next. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a blood-splattered laugh riot.
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The Haunted Mansion (2003)
You cannot make a list of the funniest ghost movies and not add this one. Got ghosts? “The Haunted Mansion” sure does, and it’s not shy about tossing a few laughs into the spooky mix. This family-friendly film transforms a classic theme park ride into a riot of supernatural shenanigans. Eddie Murphy stars as a real estate agent who finds himself and his family trapped in a mansion that’s more spirited than expected. Between singing statues and a crystal ball-hosting psychic, the ghouls and ghosts are more amusing than alarming. The movie spins a tale of mystery and mayhem, where the biggest fright might just be missing out on the jokes. “The Haunted Mansion” serves up a delightful dose of phantom fun that proves ghost stories don’t always have to be grim.
Scrooged (1988)
What happens when you mix a Christmas Carol with a dash of 80s cynicism and a sprinkle of Bill Murray? You get “Scrooged,” a modern twist on Dickens that’s as hilariously heartfelt as it is haunting. Bill Murray plays a grumpy TV executive who gets a visit from three ghosts on Christmas Eve. But these aren’t your typical solemn spirits; they’re here to knock some sense into him, with a side of slapstick and snark. The Ghost of Christmas Past is a chain-smoking cab driver, and the Ghost of Christmas Present packs her lessons in cheer with a good wallop. “Scrooged” shows that a little ghostly intervention can be the perfect recipe for both laughs and life lessons. Whether it’s a toaster as a gift or a headlock, expect the unexpected.
The Frighteners (1996)
“The Frighteners” takes the ghost genre to new heights with a side-splitting, spectral twist. Michael J. Fox stars as a man who can see and communicate with ghosts, using his paranormal pals to con the living by staging hauntings and then exorcising the pretend poltergeists for cash. It’s all fun and games until a real spirit shows up with less-than-friendly intentions. Directed by Peter Jackson, this film blends creepy with comic in a visual spectacle that’s both gripping and giggle-inducing. The ghosts are part of the gang, each with their quirks and comedic timing, making “The Frighteners” a must-watch for fans of frights served with a smirk. Ready for some ghostly giggles and jolts?
High Spirits (1988)
“High Spirits” is where high jinks and haunts collide in an uproarious romp through a cash-strapped Irish castle turned hotel. Peter O’Toole, as the desperate hotel owner, cooks up a scheme to attract tourists by advertising the castle as haunted. However, the ghostly residents turn out to be real—and they’re not too pleased about the new arrangement, leading to a series of spectral pranks and mishaps. With a love struck ghost who’s less interested in scaring and more in charming, this film turns traditional ghost stories on their head. Expect romance, rollicking laughs, and a spirited ensemble cast who prove that sometimes, the afterlife can be the life of the party.
Dark Shadows (2012)
In the list of the funniest ghost movies, Tim Burton is here twice! “Dark Shadows” revives the melodramatic charm of the 1960s gothic soap opera with a Tim Burton twist, starring Johnny Depp as Barnabas Collins, a vampire awakened in the disco-dazzling 1970s after a 200-year nap. What does a refined, 18th-century vampire do in the age of lava lamps and free love? He attempts to restore his family’s faded glory, of course, while unintentionally becoming the funniest relic in the room. The mansion is brimming with quirky, secretive residents—witches, werewolves, and more—each adding to the chaotic comedy as they try to navigate both modern times and timeless troubles.
Casper (1995)
Who says a haunted house can’t be heartwarming? Meet “Casper,” the friendliest ghost you’ll ever know. This 1995 film brings a whole new twist to the ghost genre by introducing a spirit who’s more interested in making friends than causing frights. Casper’s mischievous uncles, Stretch, Stinkie, and Fatso, add plenty of comedic chaos to the mix with their wild antics. As Casper navigates the challenges of ghostly existence and the quest for friendship, the film blends spooky settings with sweet moments. It’s a tale that tugs at the heartstrings while tickling the funny bone, proving that not all ghosts have to be ghastly. Casper: he’s just a little boy at heart, looking for a friend.
Scary Movie 2 (2001)
What happens when you throw every horror trope into a blender with a heap of comedy? You get “Scary Movie 2,” the sequel that spoofs and skewers the classics of the horror genre. This 2001 laugh riot ups the ante with its outrageous humor and a haunted house that would leave even the most seasoned ghost hunters reeling. From possessed parrots to mischievous spirits playing with the house’s new inhabitants, the film takes pleasure in turning the horror dial-up while the seriousness plummets down. With memorable scenes like the duel with a demonic cat and the notorious possessed hand, “Scary Movie 2” makes sure that the only thing it doesn’t parody is boredom. Get ready to laugh until you scream!
Ghost Town (2008)
Ever dodged a blind date only to end up seeing ghosts? “Ghost Town” spins this wild scenario into comedic gold. In one of the most underrated funniest ghost movies, Ricky Gervais stars as a dentist who survives a near-death experience, only to find he can see and communicate with spirits—all of whom want something from him. Set in bustling New York City, the ghosts are as needy as they are hilarious, badgering him to resolve their unfinished earthly business. The film cleverly mixes deadpan humor with touching moments, making the afterlife seem unexpectedly inconvenient. “Ghost Town” proves that the living may be complicated, but the dead have their demands too. Ready for some spectral laughs and heartfelt resolutions?
Just Like Heaven (2005)
What if the apartment of your dreams came with a roommate you never expected? “Just Like Heaven” is a romantic comedy with a supernatural twist, where Reese Witherspoon plays a spirit who can’t remember her past, and Mark Ruffalo is the bewildered new tenant of her apparently still-occupied apartment. Their initial interactions are as funny as they are fantastical, with each trying to stake their claim over the living space. As they navigate their unusual situation, the laughs evolve into something more heartfelt. This movie blends charm and whimsy to create a ghostly love story that’s both touching and amusing. A truly spirited tale of love beyond boundaries!
In case you want to enhance your weekend spooks, check out 10 Scary YouTube Horror Short Films to Watch This Weekend
