As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2000, a new era of comedy was ushered in with the dawn of 2001. This year proved to be a treasure trove for laughter lovers, showcasing an eclectic mix of humor that ranged from sharp satire to heartwarming family antics. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the best comedy films that graced our screens in this unforgettable year.
First up is "Zoolander," directed by Ben Stiller. This film introduced us to Derek Zoolander, played by Stiller himself—a dim-witted male model caught in a conspiracy involving brainwashing and assassination plots. With its over-the-top characters and absurd situations, "Zoolander" became an instant classic, offering quotable lines like “What is this? A center for ants?” It perfectly captured early-2000s fashion culture while delivering laughs at every turn.
Next on our list is "Legally Blonde." Reese Witherspoon shines as Elle Woods, who defies stereotypes when she enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. The film cleverly mixes light-hearted humor with themes of empowerment and self-discovery—reminding audiences that being true to oneself can lead to unexpected triumphs. Who could forget Elle's iconic pink wardrobe or her beloved dog Bruiser?
Then there’s "Shrek," which not only redefined animated comedies but also won hearts across generations. Featuring the voices of Mike Myers as Shrek and Eddie Murphy as Donkey, this fairy tale turned upside down delivered both belly laughs and poignant moments about friendship and acceptance. Its catchy soundtrack made it even more memorable; songs like “All Star” still resonate today.
Another standout from 2001 is "Super Troopers.” This cult favorite follows a group of quirky Vermont state troopers whose antics often land them in hilarious predicaments while trying to outsmart their rivals—the local police department. Known for its offbeat humor and clever one-liners (“Meow”), it has since become synonymous with stoner comedy yet appeals broadly due to its relatable characters.
We can't overlook “The Royal Tenenbaums,” Wes Anderson's unique blend of dry wit and eccentric storytelling about an estranged family coming together after years apart. With standout performances from Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Ben Stiller, Gwyneth Paltrow—and Anderson's signature visual style—it offers both charm and introspection wrapped in layers of dark humor.
Lastly, let’s celebrate “Bridget Jones’s Diary.” Renée Zellweger brought Bridget—a lovable mess navigating love life dilemmas—to life brilliantly alongside Hugh Grant and Colin Firth's captivating performances as her romantic interests. The film resonated deeply with many viewers through its honest portrayal of insecurities around dating while serving plenty laugh-out-loud moments throughout Bridget’s journey toward self-acceptance.
In retrospect, these films didn’t just provide entertainment; they reflected societal quirks while inviting audiences into their worlds filled with hilarity—making 2001 truly special for comedic cinema enthusiasts everywhere.