Las Vegas: the dazzling city of bright lights, towering casinos, and endless entertainment. Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, this iconic destination has not only captivated visitors but also provided a stunning backdrop for numerous films. So, let’s delve into the world of comedy and take a look at some of the best comedies filmed in Las Vegas. From laugh-out-loud moments to unforgettable casino settings, these films have embraced the spirit of Vegas and left audiences in stitches.
The Hangover (2009)
The Hangover is a riotous comedy that takes viewers on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Las Vegas. This film follows a group of friends waking up from a wild night of partying, only to realise that they have no memory of the previous evening and must piece together the events leading up to their friend's wedding.
The movie perfectly showcases the glamorous Caesar's Palace, renowned for its grandeur and hosting legendary performances. The casino's opulent suites and sprawling casino floor serve as the backdrop for many of the film's hilarious and unexpected moments. While viewers may have started to get a bit bored of The Hangover storylines, Zach Galifianakis is still able to tease his completely unexpected ideas for a Hangover 4 film to this day.
What Happens in Vegas (2008)
Starring Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher, What Happens in Vegas tells the story of a spontaneous marriage between two strangers after a wild night of partying in Las Vegas. As they navigate the aftermath of their impulsive decision, their comedic misadventures take them to the vibrant Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. This iconic Las Vegas establishment provides the perfect setting for the film's humorous escapades, with its energetic atmosphere, bustling casino floor, and luxurious accommodations.
Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 (2015)
Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 takes our beloved bumbling security guard, Paul Blart (played by Kevin James), on an unexpected Vegas adventure. Released six years after the first instalment, Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 isn’t rated as highly as the first on IMDb, but is still an entertaining comedy to watch. Paul Blart is taking a well-earned vacation with his daughter to Las Vegas, but of course when duty calls things don’t go to plan.
Iconic casinos in Las Vegas served as filming locations for this 2015 comedy, including Caesars Palace and Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Highlighted in a Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 reviewby Las Vegas Weekly, most of the film was actually filmed inside the Wynn and Encore hotel casinos and even featured a cameo from Steve Wynn himself.
Wynn Resorts is known for its world-famous properties on the Las Vegas Strip, its properties in Massachusetts and Macau, and also its mobile sports and casino betting app, WynnBet. The WynnBet sportsbook is currently available in New York, Arizona, Colorado, and seven other US states.
Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery (1997)
Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery takes us on a hilarious journey through the swinging '60s and beyond, with the unforgettable international man of mystery himself, Austin Powers (played by Mike Myers). While the film is not entirely set in Las Vegas, the city plays a significant role in the story.
The Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino, with its distinct Asian-inspired theme and vibrant atmosphere, serves as the backdrop for some of the film's most memorable scenes. From the electrifying casino floor to the extravagant suites, this location adds an extra layer of fun to Austin Powers' comedic antics.
Just like actors from many other successful franchises, Mike Myers has of course been approached over the years about his potential return to the iconic Austin Powers character. While had nothing to announce last year when appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Mike Myers said he would love to continue to the Austin Powers franchise.
Do film fans actually still want to see comedy films?
The answer is a resounding yes, although the landscape of comedy in cinema has evolved over the years. In the 1990s and early 2000s, comedy films reigned supreme, capturing the hearts of audiences with their light-hearted humour and relatable characters. Movies like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, Dumb and Dumber, and There's Something About Mary became cultural touchstones, generating box office success and a dedicated fan base.
Strong years for comedy films were particularly 1997 and 2003, as comedies managed to make up to over 20% of the total film market. At its peak of 21.4% in 2003, films like Bad Santa, The School of Rock, and Elf were released. However, recent data suggests that studios are not releasing as many comedy filmsanymore. For example, this year is currently at 6% of the total market, while 2020 saw a record low for comedy films at 3.8% of the market share.
As time goes on, it seems that other genres are gaining prominence, such as superhero films, action blockbusters, and thought-provoking dramas. While comedy remained a staple in the film industry, it faced stiff competition from these genres. This shift led some to wonder if comedy films were losing their appeal.