Tamil cinema after the year 2000 witnessed a refreshing evolution in comedy, blending sharp writing, situational humour, and memorable characters that continue to entertain audiences across generations. From laugh-out-loud slapstick and witty one-liners to intelligent satire and feel-good narratives, this era produced some of the best Tamil comedy movies.
Top 10 Best Comedy Movies in Tamil
1. Anbe Sivam
Anbe Sivam is a hilarious Tamil comedy movie directed by Sundar C. and produced by Lakshmi Movie Makers. The film was written by the uber-talented Kamal Hasan and tells the story of two men who have contrasting personalities but, by chance, take a trip together. It’s while they are on the trip that the comedy of situations ensues.
2. Panchatanthiram
This Tamil comedy movie translates as Panchatanthiram or Five Ruses and is co-written and directed by K. S. Ravikumar. It is another story that is written by Kamal Hasan and is an adaptation of the 1998 film Very Bad Things. The story revolves around Ram, an Indian pilot, who gets entangled with diamond smugglers. What follows is a complicated and hilarious story.
3. Vasool Raja M.B.B.S
This Tamil comedy movie follows a gangster who enrolls in a medical college and challenges its rigid norms, sparking a clash with the dean who is determined to expel him. Released on 14 August 2004, the film went on to become a major success. This film specially appeals to the youth as it highlights some of the issues that bother them deeply. It’s another Kamal Haasan comedy that keeps audiences entertained.
4. Thenali
Thenali is a 2000 Indian Tamil-language comedy film directed and co-written by K. S. Ravikumar, starring Kamal Haasan, Jayaram, Devayani, and Jyothika. The story centers on Thenali, who accompanies his psychiatrist, Kailash, on a vacation to overcome his many phobias. As Thenali grows increasingly close to Kailash’s family, the psychiatrist becomes more desperate to get rid of him. Released on 26 October 2000, the film received positive reviews and went on to become a silver jubilee hit.
5. Naanum Rowdy Thaan
Pandiyan, the son of a respected police officer, falls deeply in love with Kadhambari, a young woman with a hearing impairment who carries the trauma of a tragic past. Kadhambari agrees to pursue a relationship with him only if he helps her seek justice — and revenge — against the ruthless gangster who brutally murdered her parents. As Pandiyan is drawn into her quest, love, loyalty, and morality collide, forcing him to confront the consequences of crossing the line between right and wrong. The movie has several comedy scenes that are pure gold. It’s interesting how such a serious theme can be intertwined with super funny comedy.
6. Friends
Aravindan, Chandru, and Krishnamoorthy are inseparable friends who place friendship above all else, standing by one another through every joy and hardship. Their unbreakable bond is put to the test when a manipulative outsider begins to sow seeds of doubt by spreading lies, rumors, and misunderstandings between them. As mistrust creeps in and conflicts arise, the trio must confront deception, question their loyalties, and fight to preserve the friendship that defines their lives.
7. Oh My Kadavule
Oh My Kadavule is a 2020 Indian Tamil comedy movie written and directed by Ashwath Marimuthu in his directorial debut. The film stars Ashok Selvan, Ritika Singh, and Vani Bhojan in lead roles, with Shah Ra and M. S. Bhaskar in supporting roles. The film was released theatrically on 14 February 2020, coinciding with Valentine’s Day and even gained international recognition with an official screening at the International Indian Film Festival in Toronto in August 2020.
8. Oopiri
The story centers on Vikramaditya, a wealthy quadriplegic, and Seenu, his former convict caretaker, as their lives intertwine. Through their journey together, the narrative emphasizes the value of life, human connection, and relationships, showing how these transcend wealth, physical limitations, and past mistakes. With humor and comic situations, this film is sure to tickle your funny bones.
9. Joker
Joker (2016) is a bold Tamil political satire that uses absurdity and humour to critique social injustices and rampant corruption. The film’s strength lies in its fearless commentary on the failures of bureaucracy and hypocrisy in modern society, embodied by a villager who proclaims himself “President of India.” The narrative skilfully blends humour with heartbreaking tragedy, though some may find its tonal shifts abrupt. Powerful performances and sharp writing elevate its message, yet moments of melodrama slightly weaken its satirical punch. Overall, it’s an engaging, thought-provoking watch with genuine emotional weight.
10. Pammal K. Sambandam
In the Tamil comedy movie Pammal K. Sambandam, this moment typifies the film’s brand of absurd yet endearing comedy. The accidental leaving of Janaki’s wristwatch inside Sambandham’s stomach is medically implausible, but that is precisely the point—the film thrives on exaggeration and slapstick rather than realism. Kamal Haasan’s physical comedy sells the chaos, while the incident cleverly advances the plot and romantic tension. Though such gags occasionally stretch logic, they fit the film’s theatrical tone, making Pammal K. Sambandam a light-hearted entertainer that values laughter over credibility.
Wrapping Up
These films not only showcased legendary comedians and versatile actors but also redefined humour. Whether driven by quirky protagonists or hilarious supporting casts, this Tamil comedy movie list celebrates the films that set benchmarks in laughter, rewatch value, and cultural impact in the post-2000 period.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which are the best Vadivellu comedy shows?
Friends, Pokkiri, Aadhavan, Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi, Thevar Magan are some of the best Vadivellu comedy shows.
2. Is Vijay better at comedy?
Vijay may be known for his action roles, but he’s also a comic genius. Vijay films that are known for humor, like Ghilli, Thirumalai, or Sarkar are well-known for comedy.
3. What are some other comedy films that are worth watching?
Some of the best Tamil comedy films released after 2000 include Soodhu Kavvum, Mandela, Boss Engira Baskaran, and the romantic comedy Love Today.
4. Are there any famous horror-comedy films in Tamil after 2000?
Kanchana and Yaamirukka Bayamey are often cited as horror-comedy films.
