Funny Ghost Movies: Top 15 Ranked Worst to Best

Ghost movies have always held a special place in the hearts of film enthusiasts. They combine elements of horror, comedy, and often romance, creating a unique genre that appeals to a wide audience. Among these, funny ghost movies stand out for their ability to make audiences laugh while also giving them a good scare. One such movie that has remained iconic over the years is ‘Beetlejuice,’ which first hit screens in 1988. Starring Michael Keaton in the titular role, the film has been highly anticipated for a return, and fans have been eagerly waiting for ‘Beetlejuice 2,’ set to release in 2024. This anticipation has led many, including myself, to revisit some of the best funny ghost movies of all time.

One of the oldest films in this genre is ‘Topper,’ released in 1937. This classic ghost movie tells the story of a couple who, after dying in a car accident, decide to haunt a stuffy banker named Cosmo Topper. The film is filled with comedic situations as the ghosts try to liven up Topper’s dull life. Watching ‘Topper’ recently reminded me of the timeless appeal of ghost comedies. Despite being over 80 years old, the film’s humor and charm still hold up, proving that good storytelling and clever writing are key to creating a lasting impact.

The upcoming release of ‘Beetlejuice 2’ has sparked renewed interest in the genre, prompting many to compile lists of the best funny ghost movies. These films may not always be award-winning, but they are beloved by generations for their unique blend of comedy and supernatural elements. For instance, ‘Blithe Spirit,’ a film from 1946, won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects. The movie revolves around a novelist who accidentally summons the spirit of his first wife during a séance, leading to a series of hilarious and chaotic events. Similarly, ‘Beetlejuice’ won an Academy Award for Best Makeup in 1989, showcasing the importance of visual effects and makeup in bringing these ghostly characters to life.

The range of genres within funny ghost movies is quite broad, encompassing everything from horror to romantic comedy. What ties them together is the presence of mischievous spirits causing chaos for the living. Whether it’s the rude and despised Beetlejuice, whose charm makes him oddly lovable, or the well-meaning but bumbling ghosts in ‘Topper,’ these characters leave a lasting impression. Director Tim Burton, known for his eccentric and dark comedies, has a knack for creating memorable characters that resonate with audiences. ‘Beetlejuice’ is a prime example, featuring some of cinema’s most iconic characters, such as the bio-exorcist Beetlejuice and the goth teen Lydia.

As we delve into the world of funny ghost movies, it’s essential to recognize the contributions of filmmakers like Tim Burton. His unique vision and ability to blend dark themes with humor have made films like ‘Beetlejuice’ stand the test of time. The film’s success can also be attributed to its stellar cast, including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara. Their performances bring depth and nuance to their characters, making the supernatural elements feel grounded and relatable. This balance between the fantastical and the real is what makes funny ghost movies so engaging.

Another notable film in this genre is ‘Ghostbusters,’ released in 1984. Directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, the movie follows a group of parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. ‘Ghostbusters’ became a cultural phenomenon, spawning sequels, an animated series, and even a reboot. Its blend of humor, action, and supernatural elements set a new standard for funny ghost movies. The film’s catchy theme song and iconic logo have become ingrained in popular culture, further cementing its legacy.

In addition to ‘Ghostbusters,’ another film that deserves mention is ‘The Frighteners,’ directed by Peter Jackson and released in 1996. Starring Michael J. Fox as a psychic detective who can communicate with ghosts, the film combines horror and comedy in a way that only Jackson can. The movie’s special effects and dark humor make it a standout in the genre. ‘The Frighteners’ may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of the other films on this list, but it has garnered a cult following over the years, thanks to its unique approach and memorable characters.

While discussing funny ghost movies, it’s impossible to ignore the impact of ‘Casper,’ released in 1995. Based on the Harvey Comics character Casper the Friendly Ghost, the film tells the story of a young girl who befriends a kind-hearted ghost named Casper. The movie’s blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and impressive special effects made it a hit with audiences of all ages. ‘Casper’ also featured a star-studded cast, including Christina Ricci, Bill Pullman, and Cathy Moriarty, whose performances added depth to the story.

Another film that has left a lasting impression is ‘Scrooged,’ a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Released in 1988 and starring Bill Murray as a cynical television executive, the film uses humor and supernatural elements to convey its message of redemption and the importance of kindness. ‘Scrooged’ stands out for its witty script, memorable performances, and creative take on a classic story. It’s a perfect example of how funny ghost movies can blend traditional narratives with contemporary humor to create something truly special.

As we continue to explore the best funny ghost movies, it’s worth mentioning ‘The Haunted Mansion,’ a 2003 film based on the popular Disney theme park attraction. Starring Eddie Murphy as a real estate agent who finds himself trapped in a haunted mansion, the movie combines slapstick humor with spooky elements to create an entertaining family film. While it may not have received critical acclaim, ‘The Haunted Mansion’ has become a beloved movie for many, thanks to its fun premise and engaging performances.

Another film that blends humor and supernatural elements effectively is ‘Death Becomes Her,’ released in 1992. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, and Bruce Willis, the movie tells the story of two women who drink a potion that grants them eternal youth but with unexpected consequences. The film’s dark humor, impressive special effects, and stellar performances make it a standout in the genre. ‘Death Becomes Her’ explores themes of vanity and immortality in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Finally, no list of funny ghost movies would be complete without mentioning ‘Hocus Pocus,’ a 1993 film that has become a Halloween staple. Directed by Kenny Ortega and starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as three witches resurrected in modern-day Salem, the movie combines humor, magic, and a touch of horror to create a delightful family film. ‘Hocus Pocus’ has gained a cult following over the years, thanks to its memorable characters, catchy musical numbers, and festive atmosphere. It’s a perfect example of how funny ghost movies can capture the spirit of a holiday and become a beloved tradition for many families.