From Blockbusters To Cult Classics - Here Come The Best Comedy Movies Like American Pie

• IMDb rating: 6.7/10
• Director: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg
• Writers: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, Adam Herz
• Stars: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Seann William Scott
• Duration: 1h 53m

What's a better way to start off a list of movies like American Pie with the film’s direct sequel, American Reunion? "American Reunion" is a comedy film released in 2012, directed by Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg. It serves as a direct sequel to the original "American Pie" trilogy, bringing back the beloved characters for a high school reunion.

"American Reunion" reunites the original gang from East Great Falls, including Jim (Jason Biggs), Stifler (Seann William Scott), Michelle (Alyson Hannigan), and the rest of the group. The film follows their lives as they return to their hometown for their ten-year high school reunion. The characters find themselves grappling with the challenges of adulthood, exploring their relationships, and reliving some of the antics and humor that made the original "American Pie" movies so popular.

"American Reunion" received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While some praised the reunion of the original cast and the nostalgia factor, others felt that it relied too heavily on recycled jokes and lacked the freshness of the original film. However, fans of the franchise appreciated the return of their favorite characters and the humor that made the series popular.

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"American Reunion" performed moderately well at the box office, grossing over $235 million worldwide. Its success can be attributed to the devoted fan base of the "American Pie" series, who were eager to see the original characters back together for another comedic adventure. "American Reunion" shares numerous similarities with the original "American Pie" film. Both movies revolve around a group of friends navigating the challenges and humor of young adulthood.

They feature raunchy comedy, coming-of-age themes, and memorable characters. "American Reunion" continues the storylines from the original trilogy, bringing back familiar faces and revisiting the humor and nostalgia that made "American Pie" a success. However, it is worth noting that while "American Reunion" captures the spirit and humor of the original film, it also explores the characters' growth and maturity as they face new challenges in their adult lives.

It balances the nostalgia factor with the characters' evolution and relationships. In summary, "American Reunion" is a comedy film that serves as a direct sequel to the original "American Pie" trilogy. It brings back the beloved characters for a high school reunion and explores the challenges and humor of adulthood. The film received mixed reviews but found success at the box office, appealing to fans of the franchise who appreciated the reunion of the original cast and the continuation of the "American Pie" legacy.

Where to watch: Justwatch

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• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Director: Nima Nourizadeh
• Writers: Matt Drake, Michael Bacall
• Stars: Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper, Jonathan Daniel Brown
• Duration: 1h 28m

"Project X" is a found-footage comedy directed by Nima Nourizadeh that centers around a high school home party that gradually spirals out of control. It recreates the raucous and extravagant party energy depicted in "American Pie" and delves into topics of adolescent rebellion and the pursuit of popularity. The plot revolves around three high school friends, Thomas (Thomas Mann), Costa (Oliver Cooper), and JB (Jonathan Daniel Brown), who plan to throw an epic house party to boost their popularity.

What began as a harmless gathering suddenly gets out of hand as the night progresses. The party's news spreads quickly, bringing a large crowd and causing mayhem, devastation, and crazy antics. As they attempt to deal with the rising chaos, the young characters confront several hurdles and unforeseen events. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it acquired a loyal following and became a box office hit, making more than $100 million worldwide.

It drew both acclaim and criticism for its representation of irresponsible conduct, with some viewers finding it amusing and others worried about its impact on real-life events. After watching Project X, I can say that it’s a highly funny mockumentary film to watch with your friends. The plot is almost non-existent, but it is unnecessary because the film is so gorgeous without making any sense. This film brilliantly conveys the unbridled depravity and hedonism that I think we all either desired or feared as teenagers.

Nothing is sugar-coated, and nothing is withheld. If you enjoyed the raunchy humor and crazy teenage antics portrayed in comedy movies like American Pie, then this film is for you. Both films depict the antics and follies of teenagers. While "American Pie" is about the amusing and uncomfortable sexual adventures of a group of friends, "Project X" is about a chaotic and out-of-control home party. Both films focus on the antics and comic situations that result from youthful exuberance.

They also both rely on explicit jokes, sexual innuendos, and absurd scenarios to trigger laughs.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here:

• IMDb rating: 7.7/10
• Director: Todd Phillips
• Writers: Jon Lucas, Scott Moore
• Stars: Zach Galifianakis, Bradley Cooper, Justin Bartha
• Duration: 1h 40m

While Project X is about what happens at a party, The Hangover is about what comes after the party. "The Hangover" is a comedy film directed by Todd Phillips and released in 2009. The plot revolves around four friends—Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis), and Doug (Justin Bartha)—who fly to Las Vegas for a bachelor party weekend. However, after a night of intense partying, they wake up the next morning with no recollection of the previous night and a series of bizarre trials to conquer.

"The Hangover" blends humor, intrigue, and buddy cinema dynamics to create a fast-paced and hilarious experience. It received great accolades for its unique take on the genre as well as its humorous performances. The film was a huge box office hit, collecting over $467 million worldwide and spawning two sequels: "The Hangover Part II" (2011) and "The Hangover Part III" (2013), which continue the group's exploits in other locales.

Personally, I love The Hangover. It’s one of my favorite 2000’s comedy films. The plot is really funny, and the screenplay is unpredictable and action-packed. There are numerous jokes and witty lines, and all of the characters, including the antagonists, are lovable. This is the kind of movie that is perfect for a Friday night after a long week of work. If you love American Pie, I think you’ll love The Hangover too.

This movie, like American Pie, is a coming-of-age story about a group of friends who embark on an adventure together in search of a memorable experience. Both movies feature the type of comedy that pushes the boundaries of social norms and showcases characters finding themselves in hilariously absurd and unexpected scenarios. The Hangover is not as crazy as Project X, but it is, in my opinion, more witty.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here: 

• IMDb rating: 6.5/10
• Director: Todd Phillips
• Writers: Todd Phillips, Scot Armstrong
• Stars: Breckin Meyer, Seann William Scott, Amy Smart
• Duration: 1h 33m

Another movie directed by Todd Phillips, this film depicts a group of college pals who embark on a cross-country drive to intercept an inadvertently delivered intimate video clip. It includes comedy, adventure, and a mixture of profane and poignant moments, much like "American Pie." The plot centers around Josh Parker (Breckin Meyer), who sends a film of himself cheating on Tiffany (Rachel Blanchard), his long-distance fiancée, to her instead of his pen buddy, Beth (Amy Smart).

Josh and his friends—E.L. (Seann William Scott), Rubin (Paulo Costanzo), and Kyle (DJ Qualls)—set off on a crazy adventure from Ithaca, New York to Austin, Texas in a desperate bid to catch the video before Tiffany sees it. Critics gave Road Trip mixed reviews. While some applauded its filthy comedy and youthful energy, others critiqued its formulaic narrative and dependence on obscene gags. Despite the mixed reviews, the film performed well at the box office.

It grossed over $119 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $17 million, making it a commercial success. "Road Trip" has developed a cult following over the years, and has become a favorite late-night movie marathon choice, and it is frequently praised for its quotable lines and unforgettable events. This film, which was similar in style to American Pie and ultimately derived from Porkys and Animal House, was totally up my alley.

Even though follows the typical guidelines for teen comedies, it does everything very well. This might not be one of the best films from Todd Phillips in my eyes, but as far as raunchy comedy movies like American Pie go, it is awesome. Almost everything you might look for in a movie like American Pie is in this film. Are teenage friends doing stupid teenage things? Check. Coming-of-age theme? Check. Dirty and irreverent humor? Check.

Great comedic chemistry among the cast? Check. That being said, both films add their own flavor to the genre, so while Road Trip is similar to American Pie, you’ll have a unique experience watching it.

Where to watch the film: Justwatch 

Watch the trailer here: 

• IMDb rating: 7.6/10
• Director: Greg Mottola
  
• Writers: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg
• Stars: Michael Cera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
• Duration: 1h 53m

Fancy watching a group of high school friends embark on a quest to lose their virginity like in American Pie? Superbad has you covered. "Superbad" is a 2007 coming-of-age comedy film directed by Greg Mottola. The story follows three high school pals, Seth (Jonah Hill), Evan (Michael Cera), and Fogell (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), as they negotiate their last days of high school and prepare for college. The plot centres around the trio's desire to go to a wild party and lose their virginity.

They face a number of comic difficulties and problems along the road, such as obtaining phony IDs, becoming acquainted with quirky personalities, and coping with unexpected twists and turns. The film delves into subjects such as friendship, identity, and the stresses of adolescence. When "Superbad" was released, it gained widespread critical acclaim. Critics commended its snappy writing, authentic portrayal of adolescent friendships, and the cast's performances.

The film was well received by viewers as well, particularly the younger generation, who found it relevant and enjoyable. The film also performed well commercially, generating over $169 million worldwide on a small budget. Like American Pie, it has now become a cult classic and is frequently considered one of the era's most standout comedy films. My impression after watching this film is that it is…super good.

It is heartwarming, entertaining, and unpredictable. Jonah Hill and Michael Cera performed incredibly well and had wonderful chemistry. Emma Stone and Christopher Mintz-Plasse are fantastic too. Seth Rogen and Bill Hader are hilarious throughout, probably too hilarious because they sadly steal every scene even when they aren't intended to. None of these elements would have worked had it not been for Greg Mottola's excellent direction.

If you are into bromance movies like American Pie, then Superbad is a must-watch. Both films focus mostly on young high school boys and the intricacies of their friendships. They emphasize the special bond between ‘the bros’, frequently presenting hilarious and meaningful moments throughout.

Where to watch: Justwatch

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Director: Jeff Schaffer, Alec Berg, David Mandel
• Writers: Alec Berg, David Mandel, Jeff Schaffer
• Stars: Scott Mechlowicz, Jacob Pitts, Michelle Trachtenberg
• Duration: 1h 32m

First, we had Road Trip, now we bring you EuroTrip. Eurotrip is a comedy film directed by Jeff Schaffer and written by Alec Berg, David Mandel, and Jeff Schaffer that was released in 2004. The film follows a group of American adolescents on an adventure-filled vacation around Europe. The plot revolves around Scott Thomas (Scott Mechlowicz), who gets rejected by his fiancée Fiona (Kristin Kreuk) just before his high school graduation.

Scott decides to take a sudden journey to Europe with the support of his buddies Cooper (Jacob Pitts), Jenny (Michelle Trachtenberg), and Jamie (Travis Wester) to find his pen buddy, Mieke (Jessica Boehrs). As they travel around Europe, the company experiences a variety of hilarious and frequently surreal scenarios, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, and Bratislava. "Eurotrip" garnered a mixed reaction from critics at its initial release.

While some praised its irreverent humor and zany adventures, others criticized its immature jokes and predictable narrative. Nonetheless, the film established a cult following and a committed fan base, particularly among those who like its filthy humor. When I first watched EuroTrip, I wasn't expecting this film to be that consistently and exceptionally funny. It threw me completely off guard. I couldn't stop laughing even after I had already left the theater.

In terms of movies outperforming expectations, this is one of the best in my opinion. Both Eurotrip and American Pie are about rites of passage and youth. They feature individuals dealing with awkward social circumstances, love interactions, and hilarious problems that are familiar to adolescent and young adult audiences. While their core premises are different, they have the same comedic style, so if you enjoy one and want something similar, but also different, check out Eurotrip.

Where to watch: Justwatch 

Watch the trailer here: 

• IMDb rating: 6.4/10
• Director: Walt Becker
• Writers: Brent Goldberg, David Wagner
• Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Tara Reidm, Tim Matheson
• Duration: 1h 32m

"Van Wilder: Party Liaison" is a comedy film released in 2002, directed by Walt Becker. The movie centers around the misadventures of Van Wilder, a college student who has made a name for himself as the ultimate party planner on campus. The story follows the charismatic and carefree Van Wilder, played by Ryan Reynolds, as he navigates his seventh year in college. Van is known for throwing legendary parties and helping his fellow students have a good time.

However, when his father stops paying for his tuition, Van must find a way to come up with the money to graduate while dealing with various obstacles, including an investigative reporter determined to expose his partying ways. Along the way, he forms a connection with Gwen Pearson, played by Tara Reid, who works for the school newspaper. "Van Wilder: Party Liaison" received mixed reviews from critics.

While some praised Ryan Reynolds' comedic performance and the film's raunchy humor, others criticized its reliance on crude gags and lack of originality. Despite the mixed critical response, the movie developed a cult following over time, particularly among college students and fans of Reynolds' comedic style. The film performed moderately well at the box office, grossing over $38 million worldwide. Its success can be attributed to its appeal to the target demographic of college students and fans of raunchy comedies.

Being one of the college comedy movies like “American Pie," “Van Wilder: Party Liaison" features outrageous humor, party scenes, and sexually charged situations. It explores themes of youthful freedom, friendship, and coming-of-age experiences. Additionally, the film features a charismatic lead character with wild antics who must navigate the challenges of college life.

However, while "Van Wilder: Party Liaison" shares the raunchy and comedic tone of "American Pie," it focuses more on the larger-than-life character of Van Wilder and his college escapades. The film leans more toward exaggerated humor and slapstick comedy, while "American Pie" may have a slightly more grounded and character-driven approach. In summary, "Van Wilder:

Party Liaison" is a comedy film that follows the adventures of Van Wilder as he throws epic parties and tries to find a way to graduate college. The movie received mixed reviews but developed a cult following over time. It shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of genre and humor but distinguishes itself through its focus on the larger-than-life character of Van Wilder and his college experiences.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here: 

Movies like American Pie: The Van Wilder: Party Liaison (2002)

• IMDb rating: 7.0/10
• Director: Todd Phillips
• Writers: Court Crandall, Todd Phillips, Scot Armstrong
• Stars: Luke Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Will Ferrell
• Duration: 1h 28m

"Old School" is a comedy film released in 2003, directed by Todd Phillips. The movie revolves around a group of friends who decide to relive their college days by starting a fraternity and engaging in wild antics. The plot follows Mitch Martin, played by Luke Wilson, who after discovering his girlfriend's infidelity, moves into a house located near a college campus. Mitch's friends, Frank "The Tank" Ricard, played by Will Ferrell, and Beanie Campbell, played by Vince Vaughn, join him.

They decide to establish a fraternity, which quickly becomes popular among college students. The film explores their misadventures, partying, and attempts to balance their newfound freedom with adult responsibilities. "Old School" received generally positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its hilarious performances, particularly from Will Ferrell, and its nostalgic depiction of college life.

The comedic timing and memorable moments contributed to its success with audiences, solidifying its status as a classic comedy. In addition to its good reviews, the film also performed well at the box office, grossing over $87 million worldwide. Its success can be attributed to its talented cast, effective marketing, and the appeal of its raunchy and nostalgic college humor. "Old School" shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its college setting and raunchy humor.

Both films depict characters who are seeking to recapture their youthful experiences and embrace their freedom. They feature hilarious scenarios, party scenes, and friendships that are put to the test. However, "Old School" focuses more on a group dynamic and the creation of a fraternity, while "American Pie" tends to center around individual characters and their personal journeys.

While both films offer comedic moments and explore themes of friendship and embracing one's wild side, "Old School" has a slightly more adult-oriented tone, with characters who are already established in their lives but yearn for the carefree days of their college years. In summary, "Old School" is a comedy film that follows a group of friends as they start a fraternity and navigate the challenges of recapturing their college days.

The movie received positive reviews and achieved success at the box office. It shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its college setting and raunchy humor, but distinguishes itself through its focus on a group dynamic and the characters' desires to relive their youthful experiences.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here: 

Movies like American Pie: The Old School (2003)

• IMDb rating: 6.2/10
• Director: Bob Clark
• Writers: Bob Clark
• Stars: Dan Monahan, Mark Herrier, Wyatt Knight
• Duration: 1h 34m

"Porky's" is a comedy film released in 1981, directed by Bob Clark. The movie follows a group of high school friends who embark on a series of comedic adventures and misadventures, centered around their quest to lose their virginity. The film is set in the 1950s and revolves around a group of teenage boys attending Angel Beach High School in Florida. Led by their ringleader Pee Wee Morris, played by Dan Monahan, the boys find themselves at odds with Porky, the owner of a local strip club.

Determined to get even, they hatch various schemes and pranks, leading to a series of outrageous and often risqué situations. Throughout the film, they navigate friendships, relationships, and their own sexual awakening. "Porky's" received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics appreciated its irreverent humor and nostalgic portrayal of teenage antics, others criticized its crude and politically incorrect nature.

However, the film struck a chord with audiences, becoming a box-office success and gaining a cult following over the years. Despite the criticisms, the movie was a surprise hit at the box office, grossing over $105 million worldwide. Its success can be attributed to its appeal to the teenage and young adult demographic, who were drawn to its raunchy humor and coming-of-age themes.

"Porky's" shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its focus on adolescent humor, sexual exploration, and the bonds of friendship. Both films depict a group of friends navigating the challenges and comedic situations of their teenage years. They explore themes of teenage sexuality, peer pressure, and the awkwardness of growing up. However, it's important to note that "Porky's" predates the "American Pie" series by nearly two decades.

While both films fall into the raunchy comedy genre, "Porky's" is known for its more irreverent and politically incorrect humor. The humor in "American Pie" tends to be slightly more character-driven and balances its raunchiness with heartfelt moments and genuine emotions. In summary, "Porky's" is a comedy film that follows a group of high school friends as they navigate their teenage years and embark on a quest to lose their virginity.

The movie received mixed reviews but became a box office success, appealing to audiences with its irreverent humor and coming-of-age themes. While sharing some similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its exploration of teenage sexuality and friendships, "Porky's" distinguishes itself through its more politically incorrect and irreverent comedic style.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here: 

Movies like American Pie: Porky's (1981)

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Director: Jeff Kanew
• Writers: Tim Metcalfe, Miguel Tejada-Flores, Steve Zacharias
• Stars: Robert Carradine, Anthony Edwards, Timothy Busfield
• Duration: 1h 30m

Last but definitely not least, is “Revenge of the Nerds”, a comedy film released in 1984 and directed by Jeff Kanew. The movie follows a group of socially awkward and academically inclined college students who form their own fraternity and challenge the dominance of a fraternity of jocks on campus.

"Revenge of the Nerds" takes place at Adams College, where a group of nerdy and socially marginalized students, led by Lewis Skolnick, played by Robert Carradine, and Gilbert Lowe, played by Anthony Edwards, find themselves constantly subjected to humiliation and mistreatment by the jock fraternity, Alpha Beta. Determined to change their status, they form their own fraternity, Lambda Lambda Lambda (Tri-Lambs), and compete against Alpha Beta in various college events.

The film explores their attempts to prove themselves, find acceptance, and seek revenge against their tormentors. The movie received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. The film was praised for its underdog storyline, memorable characters, and its message of embracing individuality and challenging societal stereotypes. However, it also faced criticism for its portrayal of certain characters and controversial aspects of its humor.

Nonetheless, the film gained a significant following, becoming a cult classic over time. Surprisingly, the film performed well at the box office, grossing over $40 million worldwide. Its success can be attributed to its relatable story of underdogs overcoming adversity and its appeal to the target demographic of college students and young adults. "Revenge of the Nerds" shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its college setting, humor, and themes of social acceptance.

Both films explore the challenges faced by outsiders and marginalized groups within a college environment. They feature characters who strive to overcome stereotypes and prove themselves, often through outrageous and comedic situations. Additionally, both films challenge traditional notions of popularity and celebrate the triumph of individuality. However, it is worth noting that "Revenge of the Nerds" has a more overt focus on the conflict between the nerds and the jocks, whereas "American Pie" tends to explore a broader range of characters and their personal journeys.

The humor in "Revenge of the Nerds" can also be more politically incorrect and controversial compared to the "American Pie" series. In summary, "Revenge of the Nerds" is a comedy film that follows a group of socially marginalized college students as they form their own fraternity and challenge the dominance of a jock fraternity. The movie received mixed reviews but gained a cult following over time.

It shares similarities with the "American Pie" franchise in terms of its college setting, humor, and themes of social acceptance while offering a more overt focus on the conflict between nerds and jocks.

Where to watch: Justwatch

Watch the trailer here: 

Movies like American Pie: Revenge Of The Nerds (1984)

"American Pie" is a timeless comedic classic that captures the essence of adolescent experiences and the transition into adulthood. Its intriguing characters, relevant topics, and filthy comedy combine to provide viewers with an exciting and unforgettable experience. Despite the niche nature of the subgenre, there is no shortage of demand for comedy movies like American Pie that embody the out-of-control and sometimes awkward energy of the youth.

Hopefully, this list has provided you with enough quality movie recommendations to fill your movie nights with laughter riots.