1. “Lady Bird” (2017) – Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird” sits at the pinnacle not only for its humor but also for its poignant storytelling. Saoirse Ronan shines in this coming-of-age story that effortlessly combines wit, warmth, and authenticity to create a modern classic.

2. “Big” (1988) – Directed by Penny Marshall, “Big” stands as one of the seminal comedy films from the ’80s with Tom Hanks delivering an endearing performance as a boy trapped in a man’s body—a prime example of Marshall’s ability to balance comedy with heart.

3. “Pitch Perfect 2” (2015) – Elizabeth Banks’ directorial debut scored big at the box office and continued to endear audiences with its humorous take on competition and friendship within an all-female acapella group.

4. “Zero Motivation” (2014) – Directed by Talya Lavie, this Israeli comedy-drama provides laughs through its depiction of everyday life for a unit of female Israeli soldiers; it’s described as a cross between “MASH” and “Office Space.”

5. “A New Leaf” (1971) – Elaine May’s directorial debut, “A New Leaf,” is not just funny but also smartly constructed. This film features May herself co-starring with Walter Matthau in a dark comedy about a spendthrift playboy who plots to marry a wealthy woman.

6. “Wayne’s World” (1992) – Though commonly associated with its male stars, “Wayne’s World,” another gem directed by Penelope Spheeris, entertains with its offbeat humor and became one of the most quotable films of its era.

7. ”Clueless” (1995) – A cult classic directed by Amy Heckerling, “Clueless” presents a witty satire of high school social life and remains an iconic film in the genre, influencing both fashion and language in the 90s.

8. “The Kids Are All Right” (2010) – Lisa Cholodenko directed this sharp and funny portrait of a modern family, with Annette Bening and Julianne Moore playing a lesbian couple whose family is turned upside down by their children’s sperm-donor father.

9. “Late Night” (2019) – With a direction by Nisha Ganatra, “Late Night” offers a hilarious insight into the television world through the eyes of a legendary talk show host and her new female writer. The film deftly mixes humor with commentary on diversity in the writer’s room.

10. “Bridesmaids” (2011) – Directed by Paul Feig and written by Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, “Bridesmaids” successfully broke the mold for women-led comedies. Despite its male director, the female-driven content and Wiig’s screenplay warrant its inclusion.