Fast-paced action. Razor-sharp humor. Unstoppable buddy-cop chemistry. If the Rush Hour franchise left you craving more high-energy, wisecracking adventures, you’re in for a treat. The perfect blend of martial arts mastery and side-splitting banter doesn’t come around often, but when it does, it’s pure cinematic gold. Imagine lightning-fast fight sequences colliding with laugh-out-loud comedic timing—this is the essence of comedy movies like Rush Hour.
From mismatched partners thrown into chaotic missions to high-stakes chases infused with gut-busting humor, these films deliver non-stop entertainment. They balance explosive action with snappy dialogue, making every scene a rollercoaster of thrills and chuckles. Whether it’s globe-trotting espionage or street-smart detectives navigating crime with wit and fists, these movies keep the energy sky-high.
So, if you’re on the hunt for films that capture that same electrifying mix of action and comedy, buckle up. This list of comedy movies like Rush Hour will have you laughing, gasping, and hitting replay before the credits even roll. Let’s dive into the best picks that pack a punch—both literally and figuratively!
Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Plot Overview: In this iconic film, Detroit detective Axel Foley, portrayed by Eddie Murphy, ventures to the upscale streets of Beverly Hills to investigate his friend’s murder. His unconventional methods clash with the local police, leading to a series of comedic and thrilling events.
Notable Cast:
- Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley
- Judge Reinhold as Detective Billy Rosewood
- John Ashton as Sergeant John Taggart
- Ronny Cox as Lieutenant Andrew Bogomil
Why Watch It? “Beverly Hills Cop” seamlessly blends action and humor, offering a narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Eddie Murphy’s dynamic performance brings a unique charm to the film, making it a standout in the action-comedy genre. For fans of comedy movies like Rush Hour, this film delivers a similar blend of high-stakes action and witty banter.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Beverly Hills Cop” is available for streaming on Paramount+. It’s also available for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
For those seeking a film that combines thrilling action with sharp humor, “Beverly Hills Cop” remains a timeless choice.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Plot Overview: In “Lethal Weapon,” seasoned LAPD detective Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) is paired with the volatile Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson), a cop on the edge following personal tragedy. Their partnership begins tumultuously but evolves as they delve into a complex drug-smuggling operation, blending intense action with sharp humor.
Notable Cast:
- Mel Gibson as Martin Riggs
- Danny Glover as Roger Murtaugh
- Gary Busey as Mr. Joshua
- Mitchell Ryan as General Peter McAllister
Why Watch It? “Lethal Weapon” stands as a seminal film in the buddy-cop genre, artfully combining high-octane action sequences with witty dialogue. The dynamic between Gibson and Glover offers a compelling mix of tension and camaraderie, setting the standard for future action-comedies. For enthusiasts of comedy movies like Rush Hour, this film delivers a similar blend of thrills and laughs, making it a must-watch.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Lethal Weapon” is available for streaming on AMC+. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For those seeking a film that masterfully intertwines action and comedy, “Lethal Weapon” remains an enduring favorite.
Midnight Run (1988)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Plot Overview: In “Midnight Run,” ex-cop turned bounty hunter Jack Walsh (Robert De Niro) is tasked with capturing Jonathan “The Duke” Mardukas (Charles Grodin), an accountant who embezzled $15 million from the mob and donated it to charity. What seems like a straightforward assignment quickly escalates into a cross-country escapade, with the FBI, mobsters, and rival bounty hunters in hot pursuit. The film masterfully intertwines high-stakes action with sharp humor, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative.
Notable Cast:
- Robert De Niro as Jack Walsh
- Charles Grodin as Jonathan Mardukas
- Yaphet Kotto as FBI Agent Alonzo Mosely
- John Ashton as rival bounty hunter Marvin Dorfler
- Dennis Farina as mob boss Jimmy Serrano
Why Watch It? “Midnight Run” stands out as a quintessential example of comedy movies like Rush Hour, seamlessly blending action-packed sequences with witty banter. The palpable chemistry between De Niro and Grodin elevates the film, offering a balance of tension and comedic relief. Director Martin Brest’s adept storytelling ensures a roller-coaster experience, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of the action-comedy genre.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Midnight Run” is available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Additionally, it is accessible for streaming on Tubi, offering viewers multiple avenues to enjoy this classic.
For those seeking a film that delivers both adrenaline-pumping action and hearty laughs, “Midnight Run” remains an enduring favorite.
Bad Boys (1995)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Plot Overview: In “Bad Boys,” Miami detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) are tasked with recovering $100 million worth of stolen heroin. Their investigation becomes complicated when they must protect the sole witness to a murder, leading to a series of high-stakes and humorous situations.
Notable Cast:
- Will Smith as Mike Lowrey
- Martin Lawrence as Marcus Burnett
- Téa Leoni as Julie Mott
- Joe Pantoliano as Captain Howard
Why Watch It? “Bad Boys” is a quintessential example of comedy movies like Rush Hour, blending intense action sequences with sharp-witted banter. The dynamic chemistry between Smith and Lawrence delivers both thrilling and comedic moments, making it a standout in the buddy-cop genre. Director Michael Bay’s feature debut showcases his signature high-energy style, ensuring an engaging experience from start to finish.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Bad Boys” is available for streaming on Mx. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies
For fans of action-comedy films, “Bad Boys” remains a must-watch, delivering a perfect blend of excitement and humor.
Rush Hour 2 (2001)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Plot Overview: In “Rush Hour 2,” Chief Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan) and Detective James Carter (Chris Tucker) reunite in Hong Kong for what begins as a vacation. Their respite is cut short when a bomb explodes at the U.S. Consulate, killing two undercover agents. The duo embarks on a high-stakes investigation, delving into the dangerous world of the Triads and uncovering a complex counterfeit money scheme. Their pursuit takes them from the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the vibrant casinos of Las Vegas.
Notable Cast:
- Jackie Chan as Chief Inspector Lee
- Chris Tucker as Detective James Carter
- John Lone as Ricky Tan
- Zhang Ziyi as Hu Li
- Roselyn Sánchez as Agent Isabella Molina
Why Watch It? “Rush Hour 2” exemplifies the quintessential elements of comedy movies like Rush Hour, delivering a seamless blend of martial arts action and comedic interplay. The chemistry between Chan and Tucker provides a plethora of humorous exchanges and dynamic action sequences. Director Brett Ratner elevates the stakes in this sequel, offering audiences a thrilling narrative that balances suspense and laughter. The film’s exploration of diverse locales and cultures adds depth to its engaging storyline.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Rush Hour 2” is available for streaming on Netflix. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For enthusiasts of action-comedy films, “Rush Hour 2” offers a compelling continuation of the beloved franchise, combining high-energy stunts with sharp-witted humor.
Shanghai Noon (2000)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Western
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Plot Overview: In “Shanghai Noon,” Chinese Imperial Guard Chon Wang (Jackie Chan) embarks on a quest to rescue the kidnapped Princess Pei Pei (Lucy Liu), who has been taken to the American West. Teaming up with affable outlaw Roy O’Bannon (Owen Wilson), Wang navigates the challenges of a foreign land, blending martial arts prowess with Western frontier antics. Their partnership leads to a series of humorous and action-packed escapades, culminating in a showdown to save the princess and restore honor.
Notable Cast:
- Jackie Chan as Chon Wang
- Owen Wilson as Roy O’Bannon
- Lucy Liu as Princess Pei Pei
- Xander Berkeley as Marshal Nathan Van Cleef
- Roger Yuan as Lo Fong
Why Watch It? “Shanghai Noon” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, offering a unique blend of Eastern martial arts and Western cowboy culture. The on-screen chemistry between Chan and Wilson delivers a delightful mix of humor and action, making it a refreshing take on the buddy-cop formula. The film’s inventive stunts, witty dialogue, and cross-cultural exchanges provide a captivating experience for audiences seeking both laughter and thrills.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Shanghai Noon” is available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, and Microsoft Store.
For viewers who appreciate action-comedy films that seamlessly blend diverse genres, “Shanghai Noon” offers an entertaining journey through the Wild West with a martial arts twist.
Hot Fuzz (2007)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Plot Overview: In “Hot Fuzz,” exceptional London constable Nicholas Angel (Simon Pegg) is transferred to the tranquil village of Sandford, where he partners with the well-meaning but inept PC Danny Butterman (Nick Frost). Despite the town’s peaceful facade, a series of gruesome “accidents” prompts Angel to suspect a sinister conspiracy, leading to a thrilling and humorous investigation.
Notable Cast:
- Simon Pegg as Nicholas Angel
- Nick Frost as PC Danny Butterman
- Jim Broadbent as Inspector Frank Butterman
- Timothy Dalton as Simon Skinner
- Olivia Colman as PC Doris Thatcher
Why Watch It? “Hot Fuzz” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, delivering a sharp satire of the buddy-cop genre. Director Edgar Wright’s meticulous attention to detail, combined with Pegg and Frost’s dynamic chemistry, results in a film rich with clever humor and exhilarating action sequences. The ensemble cast’s stellar performances further elevate the narrative, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of action-comedy cinema.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Hot Fuzz” is available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Mx Player, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that masterfully intertwines action and comedy, “Hot Fuzz” offers an engaging and entertaining experience that continues to resonate with audiences.
The Other Guys (2010)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Plot Overview: In “The Other Guys,” desk-bound NYPD detectives Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell) and Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg) toil in obscurity, overshadowed by the department’s celebrated officers, P.K. Highsmith (Samuel L. Jackson) and Christopher Danson (Dwayne Johnson). When an opportunity arises to step into the limelight, Gamble and Hoitz seize a seemingly mundane case that spirals into a high-stakes investigation involving corporate corruption and criminal masterminds. Their misadventures are filled with comedic mishaps and unexpected heroics, challenging their reputations and partnership.
Notable Cast:
- Will Ferrell as Allen Gamble
- Mark Wahlberg as Terry Hoitz
- Eva Mendes as Dr. Sheila Gamble
- Michael Keaton as Captain Gene Mauch
- Steve Coogan as David Ershon
- Samuel L. Jackson as P.K. Highsmith
- Dwayne Johnson as Christopher Danson
Why Watch It? “The Other Guys” offers a fresh and humorous perspective on the traditional buddy-cop narrative, making it a standout among comedy movies like Rush Hour. The film showcases the comedic synergy between Ferrell and Wahlberg, delivering a blend of action-packed sequences and laugh-out-loud moments. Director Adam McKay infuses the movie with sharp wit and satirical elements, providing both entertainment and a subtle critique of corporate malfeasance.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “The Other Guys” is available for streaming on Netflix. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that combines dynamic action with sharp humor, “The Other Guys” delivers an engaging and entertaining experience.
21 Jump Street (2012)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Plot Overview: In “21 Jump Street,” former high school adversaries Morton Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Greg Jenko (Channing Tatum) find themselves as partners in the police force. Assigned to an undercover unit, they pose as high school students to dismantle a burgeoning synthetic drug ring. As they navigate the complexities of modern teenage life, their mission becomes a comedic exploration of friendship and personal growth.
Notable Cast:
- Jonah Hill as Morton Schmidt
- Channing Tatum as Greg Jenko
- Brie Larson as Molly Tracey
- Dave Franco as Eric Molson
- Ice Cube as Captain Dickson
Why Watch It? “21 Jump Street” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, delivering a fresh and irreverent take on the buddy-cop genre. The film’s success is anchored by the dynamic chemistry between Hill and Tatum, whose comedic timing breathes new life into the narrative. Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller infuse the movie with sharp humor and self-aware satire, making it both a homage to and a parody of classic action-comedies. The engaging storyline, combined with unexpected cameos and clever references, ensures a viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “21 Jump Street” is available for streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For audiences seeking a film that masterfully blends action and comedy, “21 Jump Street” offers a contemporary twist on the classic buddy-cop formula, ensuring laughter and excitement in equal measure.
Central Intelligence (2016)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Plot Overview: In “Central Intelligence,” mild-mannered accountant Calvin Joyner (Kevin Hart) reconnects with former high school classmate Bob Stone (Dwayne Johnson) via social media. Unbeknownst to Calvin, Bob has transformed from an awkward teenager into a formidable CIA operative. Bob enlists Calvin’s accounting expertise to thwart a plot involving the sale of satellite codes to terrorists. As the duo navigates shootouts, espionage, and double-crosses, Calvin is thrust into a world far removed from his mundane office life.
Notable Cast:
- Dwayne Johnson as Bob Stone
- Kevin Hart as Calvin Joyner
- Amy Ryan as Agent Pamela Harris
- Aaron Paul as Phil Stanton
- Jason Bateman as Trevor Olson
Why Watch It? “Central Intelligence” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, offering a blend of action-packed sequences and comedic interplay. The film capitalizes on the dynamic chemistry between Johnson and Hart, delivering a narrative filled with humor and unexpected twists. Director Rawson Marshall Thurber crafts a story that balances high-stakes espionage with relatable themes of friendship and personal growth. The juxtaposition of Johnson’s imposing presence and Hart’s quick-witted humor creates a compelling and entertaining experience.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Central Intelligence” is available for streaming on Netflix. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that seamlessly combines action and comedy, “Central Intelligence” offers a delightful and engaging cinematic journey.
Ride Along (2014)
Genre: Action, Comedy
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Plot Overview: In “Ride Along,” fast-talking security guard Ben Barber (Kevin Hart) has spent years trying to prove his worth to decorated Atlanta detective James Payton (Ice Cube), who also happens to be his girlfriend’s brother. To test Ben’s resolve, James invites him on a 24-hour patrol of the city. What begins as a calculated attempt to scare off the suitor quickly escalates into a real case involving Atlanta’s most notorious criminal, thrusting the unlikely duo into a series of dangerous and comedic situations.
Notable Cast:
- Ice Cube as James Payton
- Kevin Hart as Ben Barber
- John Leguizamo as Santiago
- Tika Sumpter as Angela Payton
- Laurence Fishburne as Omar
Why Watch It? “Ride Along” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, delivering a blend of action-packed sequences and sharp humor. The film capitalizes on the dynamic chemistry between Ice Cube’s stoic demeanor and Kevin Hart’s energetic wit, creating a compelling and entertaining narrative. Director Tim Story crafts a story that balances high-stakes scenarios with comedic relief, making it a must-watch for fans of the buddy-cop genre.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Ride Along” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and NBC. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, and Microsoft Store.
For viewers seeking a film that combines high-energy action with comedic flair, “Ride Along” offers an engaging and enjoyable cinematic experience.
The Nice Guys (2016)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Plot Overview: Set in 1970s Los Angeles, “The Nice Guys” follows the unlikely partnership between down-on-his-luck private investigator Holland March (Ryan Gosling) and enforcer Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe). The duo teams up to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Amelia (Margaret Qualley) and the seemingly unrelated death of a porn star. Their investigation uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest circles of power, leading them through a series of comedic and action-packed escapades.
Notable Cast:
- Russell Crowe as Jackson Healy
- Ryan Gosling as Holland March
- Angourie Rice as Holly March
- Matt Bomer as John Boy
- Margaret Qualley as Amelia Kuttner
Why Watch It? “The Nice Guys” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, offering a fresh take on the buddy-cop genre with its blend of sharp humor, engaging action sequences, and a captivating neo-noir aesthetic. The chemistry between Crowe and Gosling delivers a dynamic and entertaining performance, while director Shane Black’s signature style ensures a witty and fast-paced narrative. The film’s period setting adds a nostalgic charm, making it a must-watch for fans of action-comedy and crime mysteries.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “The Nice Guys” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home.
For viewers seeking a film that masterfully combines humor, action, and mystery, “The Nice Guys” offers an engaging and thoroughly enjoyable cinematic experience.
Starsky & Hutch (2004)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Plot Overview: In “Starsky & Hutch,” uptight detective David Starsky (Ben Stiller) and laid-back partner Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson (Owen Wilson) are tasked with uncovering a major drug operation in Bay City. With assistance from streetwise informant Huggy Bear (Snoop Dogg), the duo navigates a series of comedic and action-packed scenarios to bring down the nefarious drug lord Reese Feldman (Vince Vaughn). Set in the 1970s, the film serves as a prequel to the original television series, exploring the origins of this iconic partnership.
Notable Cast:
- Ben Stiller as David Starsky
- Owen Wilson as Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson
- Snoop Dogg as Huggy Bear
- Vince Vaughn as Reese Feldman
- Juliette Lewis as Kitty
Why Watch It? “Starsky & Hutch” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, offering a blend of action, humor, and nostalgia. The film’s strength lies in the dynamic chemistry between Stiller and Wilson, whose comedic timing revitalizes the classic buddy-cop formula. Director Todd Phillips infuses the movie with a playful homage to the 1970s, complete with period-specific aesthetics and a funky soundtrack. For fans of action-comedies that balance wit and excitement, this film provides an entertaining experience.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “Starsky & Hutch” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Tubi. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that combines action-packed sequences with comedic flair, “Starsky & Hutch” offers a delightful journey back to the vibrant 1970s cop scene.
48 Hrs. (1982)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Plot Overview: In “48 Hrs.,” grizzled San Francisco detective Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) forms an uneasy alliance with fast-talking convict Reggie Hammond (Eddie Murphy), temporarily paroled to assist in capturing two cop killers. Their 48-hour partnership is fraught with tension, humor, and high-stakes action as they navigate the criminal underworld to bring the fugitives to justice.
Notable Cast:
- Nick Nolte as Jack Cates
- Eddie Murphy as Reggie Hammond
- Annette O’Toole as Elaine
- James Remar as Albert Ganz
- Frank McRae as Captain Haden
Why Watch It? “48 Hrs.” is a seminal film that laid the groundwork for comedy movies like Rush Hour, seamlessly blending action and humor. Eddie Murphy’s film debut showcases his charismatic screen presence, complementing Nick Nolte’s rugged portrayal. Their on-screen chemistry delivers a compelling narrative filled with sharp dialogue and dynamic sequences. Directed by Walter Hill, the film’s gritty depiction of 1980s San Francisco adds authenticity to the high-octane plot. For enthusiasts of action-comedy, “48 Hrs.” offers a quintessential experience that has influenced numerous successors in the genre.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “48 Hrs.” is available for streaming on Prime Video, fuboTV, and Hulu. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that masterfully combines intense action with sharp-witted humor, “48 Hrs.” remains a timeless classic in the buddy-cop genre.
National Security (2003)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime
IMDb Rating: 5.6/10
Plot Overview: In “National Security,” Earl Montgomery (Martin Lawrence), a zealous yet rejected police academy candidate, and Hank Rafferty (Steve Zahn), a recently disgraced cop, find themselves reluctantly paired as security guards. Their partnership takes an unexpected turn when they stumble upon a sophisticated smuggling ring. As they delve deeper, their contrasting personalities lead to a series of comedic and action-packed escapades, challenging their perceptions and forging an unlikely alliance.
Notable Cast:
- Martin Lawrence as Earl Montgomery
- Steve Zahn as Hank Rafferty
- Colm Feore as Detective Frank McDuff
- Bill Duke as Lieutenant Washington
- Eric Roberts as Nash
Why Watch It? “National Security” stands out among comedy movies like Rush Hour, delivering a blend of action and humor that keeps audiences engaged. The dynamic between Lawrence and Zahn offers a fresh take on the buddy cop genre, with their comedic timing and on-screen chemistry driving the narrative. Director Dennis Dugan infuses the film with high-energy sequences and witty dialogues, making it a noteworthy addition for fans of action-comedy.
Where to Stream: As of February 2025, “National Security” is available for streaming on Prime Video and fuboTV. Additionally, it can be rented or purchased through platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For viewers seeking a film that combines high-stakes action with comedic flair, “National Security” offers an entertaining experience reminiscent of the dynamic found in comedy movies like Rush Hour.
Conclusion
Action, humor, and unforgettable partnerships define the best comedy movies like Rush Hour. These films masterfully blend high-energy stunts with razor-sharp dialogue, delivering entertainment that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish. Whether it’s crime-fighting duos or mismatched partnerships, these movies guarantee adrenaline-fueled laughter and nonstop excitement.
