As a connoisseur of offbeat and quirky films, I must say that the list you’ve compiled is right up my alley! Let me share some thoughts from my perspective as a film enthusiast who has traversed the cinematic landscapes of the bizarre and the profound.
A movie with an R-rating may not always result in a brilliantly funny film, but it typically means that the creators have ample freedom to explore edgy humor and even push boundaries to elicit laughter from viewers. This is true for contemporary comedies like “The Hangover” and “Bridesmaids,” as well as classics from previous decades such as “Blazing Saddles” and “Office Space.
Many comical productions with a dark, peculiar, or excessively humorous tone often receive an R-rating, yet may not receive the recognition they deserve within the diverse and subjective comedy genre. Here’s a list of 10 exceptional R-rated comedies that you might not have come across, but are definitely worth watching:
10 Deerskin (2019)
Georges, a 44-year-old man grappling with a midlife crisis, discovers a sense of reinvention in a deerskin jacket. This item captivates Georges to such an extent that he develops an unhealthy fixation, often videoing himself while wearing it. However, his preoccupation escalates into a bizarre delusion where he believes the jacket has taken on a life of its own, commanding him to kill anyone who dares wear a lesser-quality jacket. As Georges’ behavior grows increasingly aggressive, he gains support from a budding local filmmaker, Denise, who shares his fascination with documenting Georges and his actions.
Killer Style
Quinten Dupiex, formerly an electronic musician and now a filmmaker, presents “Deerskin” – a unique blend of escalating violence and insanity that unfolds at a leisurely pace. The eccentric comedy stems from the protagonist’s fixation on a deer jacket, a quirky premise that is brought to life by Jean Dujardin’s dedicated performance. Despite its absurd nature, the film offers a darkly amusing perspective on Georges’ rebellion against his own mortality, making it an intriguing and humorous watch.
You can Stream Deerskin on AMC+ or Mubi.
9 Dinner in America (2020)
Simon, a punk rock enthusiast, finds himself on the lam following an arson incident. Patty, a somewhat introverted teenage music fanatic, grapples with job stability. A fortuitous encounter leads Simon to leverage Patty as his safe haven amidst turmoil, but their shared experiences kindle a unique connection and they eventually team up in their unconventional escapades. An enchanting romance born of awkwardness, Dinner in America showcases the endearing tale of two misfits immersed in nostalgia for rebellious youth and cultural upheaval.
Not Your Average American Love Story
Director Adam Rehemeier has positioned himself as one of the top comic directors of the 2020s, with “Dinner in America” demonstrating a unique blend of dark, offbeat humor that is both sharp-witted and highly contagious in its appeal. Imagine the cringe-worthy feelings of “Welcome to The Dollhouse” combined with the rebellious spirit of John Waters’ early creations, and you begin to grasp the comedic genius at play here.
As someone captivated by storytelling, I must say the most delightful aspect is discovering “Dinner in America” – a tale brimming with empathy that resonates profoundly. It’s simply magical how it excels as a heartwarming romance for those who have ever grappled with feelings of unease and self-consciousness.
You can stream Dinner in America on Hulu.
8 Buffaloed (2020)
Peg Dahl knows the grind and dedicates much of her life to simple, swift swindles. Yet, upon being apprehended and granted probation, she discovers the world of debt collection and recognizes how her ability to deceive others can be advantageous. Initially working for someone else, she realizes she’s not reaping the rewards, so she decides to establish her own debt collection agency. This leads to a conflict between the two companies that becomes gritty and dangerous.
For the Love of Money
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but be smitten by the witty and swift dialogue in the film “Buffaloed,” penned by Brian Sacca. The star-studded performance of Zoey Deutch as the bold and brash Peg Dahl is simply unforgettable, dominating every scene with her commanding presence. When she’s at her most explosive, Peg delivers the best lines that make you laugh out loud. Not only does “Buffaloed” provide a comical insight into the culture of Buffalo, New York, but it also showcases a delightful array of eccentric characters who admire Deutch’s captivating portrayal of Peg.
You can stream Buffaloed on Hulu, Hoopla, or Kanopy.
7 Some Like It Rare (2021)
Vincent and Sophie Pascal are grappling with a struggling butcher shop in France, as dwindling business places a strain on both their finances and relationship. In an unfortunate incident, Vincent unintentionally ends the life of a vegan activist who vandalized their store. To dispose of the situation, they employ a method familiar to them – butchering the body and selling the remains as new, popular meat to their customers. This unexpected turn of events leads them to discover that the unique diet of vegans gives their meat an unusual flavor, prompting them to pursue more victims in this twisted hunt for fresh produce.
The Price of Meat is Rising
Yes, yes, this angle has already been done in the 2003 Danish dark comedy Green Butchers, which you should also watch, but Some Like it Rare thrives on being the more absurd and over-the-top cannibal comedy. Fabrice Eboué and Marina Foïs are the perfect comedic couple, bickering their way through multiple kills of vegans. There is a dark, sinister edge here that is not quite a horror-comedy, but will appeal to those who love the genre. A meaty, tasty treat for comedy fans.
You can stream Some Like it Rare on Tubi.
6 Baby Assassins (2021)
Chisato and Mahiro, once high school friends, now earn a living by accepting assassination contracts. However, the expenses associated with cleaning up after these jobs frequently leave them in debt. To make matters worse, their demanding part-time jobs exacerbate the tension between them as they struggle to maintain their relationship while staying afloat financially. The duo’s difficult personalities and mounting debts ultimately put them in the crosshairs of the Yakuza, forcing them to confront and strengthen their strained friendship to survive.
The Cutest Killers To Ever Grace a Comedy
If you’re searching for a film that combines martial arts with humor in a big way, then you’ll love “Baby Assassins”! It offers an endearing pair of assassins, and the extended action scenes are both captivating and elegantly choreographed. However, at its core, this movie is a heartwarming buddy comedy that truly shines due to the vibrant characters portrayed by Akari Takaishi and Saori Izawa as Chistaro and Mahiro.
In a somewhat unexpected twist, this action-packed production leans towards the casual humor reminiscent of stoner comedies in its rhythm, a factor that might sway some viewers. However, Baby Assassins, despite this, has managed to cultivate a devoted cult following. The film franchise has expanded to include two movies and a TV series: Baby Assassins: 2 Babies, Baby Assassins: Nice Days, and Baby Assassins Everyday!. If you enjoyed the initial movie, there’s plenty more excitement and laughter to be discovered.
You can stream Baby Assassins on Hi-Yah!, Peacock, Tubi, or Hoopla.
5 The Overnight (2015)
Following their recent relocation to Los Angeles with their son, Alex and Emily have found themselves feeling rather socially detached. In an attempt to alleviate the monotony, they graciously accept an invitation from another young family, Kurt, Charlotte, and their child, for social interaction. As the relationships between the parents deepen, what initially began as a simple gathering evolved into a string of strange incidents as Kurt and Charlotte displayed their unconventional side, subtly proposing a four-person relationship to the more traditional pair.
Well, That Was Awkward
If you’re a fan of comedies that revolve around uneasy social situations, “The Overnight” might just be the most uncomfortable indie comedy experience to date. The main characters, Kurt and Charlotte, have peculiar hobbies such as creating canvas art from other people’s private areas, producing milk fetish videos for monetary gain, and offering erotic services at a shady massage parlor for the thrill. Alex and Emily find themselves drawn yet repelled by these activities, creating a source of humor that comes from their conflicting emotions.
The entire night unfolds as one prolonged, awkward prelude to an unavoidable proposal, with every awkward exchange between Alex and Emily questioning their comfort level with each new revelation they encounter. In a comedy like this, the performers are crucial, and Adam Scott, Taylor Schilling, Jason Schwartzman, and Judith Godrèche deliver exceptional performances, gradually escalating an absurd night of chaos, humor, and cringe-worthy discomfort to its peak.
You can stream The Overnight on Fubo, Pluto TV, Plex, or Freevee.
4 Buzzard (2014)
Marty Jackitansky lives his life with minimal exertion, bouncing from one temporary job to another while devising petty schemes for meager gains, such as returning untraceable stolen office equipment. Yet, as his schemes are gradually exposed and he becomes more paranoid, Marty roams the streets of Detroit, fabricating a ‘power glove,’ and displaying aggressive behavior towards others.
Darker Than the Darkest Comedy
It is hard to say if director Joel Potrykus’s work will resonate with the viewer until they try out one of his films for themselves. Buzzardis incredibly bleak, slow-paced, and with a highly unlikable protagonist. This is comedy at its darkest, and is perfect for those who vibe with ‘misery loves company.’
Joel Potrykus’s affinity for horror and exploitation films is evident, yet his movie doesn’t fall under these categories. Instead, the main character, Marty, encapsulates the most unsavory aspects of genre enthusiasts. Within the first 20 minutes, you’ll know if this film appeals to you, and if it does, you can delve deeply into Potrykus’s entire body of work.
You can stream Buzzard on Fandor, Tubi, Hoopla, Kanopy, or Freevee.
3 Wetlands (2013)
Helen is an 18-year-old who boldly flouts conventional norms about sexuality and cleanliness; she’s overly preoccupied with her bodily fluids. Upon being hospitalized following an accident, she spends a considerable amount of time inspecting her body and reminiscing about past experiences that shaped her current perspective. Simultaneously, she leverages the sympathy shown towards her to try to reconcile her estranged parents and develop feelings for a nurse named Robin, whom she finds herself attracted to.
Getting Uncomfortably Intimate With The Body
From a passionate movie enthusiast like myself, let me share my thoughts on “Wetlands”. This film is unique, to say the least, as it delves deeply into the realm of sexual experiences and the associated bodily fluids, leaving little to one’s imagination. In fact, its exploration is so profound that it earned an NC-17 rating, reflecting its unapologetic approach to such topics.
Despite the intense nature of the conversations, the visual content is more akin to a comedy that thrives on sharp wit, intelligent writing, and introspection. This film might be a nightmarish experience for someone with mysophobia, but those who can handle it will discover a clever comedy brimming with thought-provoking commentary.
You can stream Wetlands on Tubi.
2 The Catechism Cataclysm (2011)
Father Billy Smoother is compelled to take a break from his duties as a Catholic priest due to some clumsy and inappropriately sacrilegious behaviors. To rekindle his connection with his past, Billy extends an invitation to Robbie Shoemaker, a figure he admired during his high school years, for a fishing excursion. Initially unaware of Billy’s identity, Robbie accepts the offer but encounters friction due to the boisterous and unsophisticated demeanor of the priest.
A Very Awkward Road Trip
Steve Little is frequently underestimated as one of the funniest actors currently active, and he truly shines in his most socially awkward and puzzling role as Father William Smoortser in Todd Rohal’s film, “The Catechism Cataclysm.” The mismatched personalities between Little’s boisterous and clueless character and Robert Longstreet’s tougher Robbie Shoemaker create an amusing dynamic that is both awkward and hilarious. The movie concludes with a strangely surreal scene that leaves viewers with a lasting impression, making it a unique road-trip comedy experience.
You can stream The Catechism Cataclysm on AMC+.
1 I’m a Cyborg, But That’s Okay (2006)
In a mental health facility resides Cha Young-goon, a young woman who fervently maintains her identity as a combat cyborg. One day, during work, she tried implanting electronics into herself, which led to her hospitalization. Believing that she merely needs a jolt, Young-goon gradually stops eating, causing distress among the residents, particularly Park Il-sun, who develops a plan with other patients to encourage the ‘cyborg’ to start eating again.
A Peculiar Korean Rom-Com
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I must say that Korean romantic comedies hold a special place in the hearts of many viewers. However, unlike most of its kin which usually serve up light-hearted fare, “I’m a Cyborg, But That’s Okay” is an exception to the rule. This thought-provoking film tackles heavy themes such as mental health and suicide, earning it an R-rating. For those familiar with the work of its director, Park Chan-wook, this shouldn’t come as a shock. Known for his gritty and complex films like “Oldboy,” “Thirst,” “The Handmaiden,” and “Decision to Leave,” Park Chan-wook doesn’t shy away from challenging narratives that delve deep into the human condition.
Although it has an R-rating, this movie can be considered a traditional romantic comedy in many aspects, albeit with a peculiar plotline and unconventional characters. For rom-com enthusiasts, “I’m a Cyborg, But That’s Okay” provides the familiar elements of the genre with a unique spin, while for fans of dark comedy, it offers a less intense version that maintains the necessary doses of mature humor.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-09-14 02:02