12 Best Movies Like Grown Ups

In a world teeming with chaos and obligations, sometimes a hearty laugh is the best remedy. Enter "Grown Ups" (2010), a delightful comedy that unites a stellar cast in a journey infused with adult-themed humor and genuine camaraderie. If you found yourself laughing along with Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider, then brace yourself for more chuckles as we explore a curated list of movies that embody the same essence and comedic style.

The heartwarming tale of "Grown Ups" (2010) centers around five childhood friends reuniting following the passing of their high school basketball coach. As they converge, they confront the trials of adulthood, finding solace in laughter and friendship amidst life's complexities. This comedy gem is a delightful concoction of humor, heart, and a dash of nostalgia, resonating with audiences far and wide.

Now, let's embark on an adventure through a selection of movies that mirror the spirit and comedic charm of "Grown Ups."

12 Best Movies Like Grown Ups

Grown Ups 2 (2013)

Plot Summary: The gang reunites for another round of uproarious antics and misadventures in their hometown. This time, Lenny Feder (Adam Sandler) has moved his family back to his childhood town to be closer to his friends. The film explores their attempts to relive their youth, including a chaotic, over-the-top 1980s-themed costume party and encounters with eccentric townspeople and old-school bullies.

Cast: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, Salma Hayek, Maya Rudolph, Nick Swardson, Shaquille O'Neal, and Taylor Lautner.

Reception: Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film was a box office success, grossing over $247 million worldwide. It was praised for its slapstick humor and the chemistry between the cast members, even though some critics felt the plot was thin.

Comparison to "Grown Ups": "Grown Ups 2" continues the humor and camaraderie that made the original film a hit. It offers more of the same fun, focusing on the characters' shared history and their humorous attempts to deal with middle age. The movie also introduces new comedic elements and characters, adding fresh twists to the familiar dynamics.

Recommendation Statement: A must-watch sequel for fans of the first film, "Grown Ups 2" promises to keep the laughter rolling with its mix of nostalgic moments and new, hilarious escapades. Whether it's the absurdity of the deer-in-the-house scene or the hilarious rivalry with the fraternity led by Taylor Lautner, there's plenty to enjoy.

Vacation (2015)

Plot Summary: In this modern reboot of the classic "National Lampoon's Vacation" series, Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) decides to recreate his childhood road trip to Walley World in an attempt to bond with his wife, Debbie (Christina Applegate), and their two sons, James and Kevin. The journey quickly spirals into a series of hilarious misadventures, from a disastrous visit to a hot springs that turns out to be a sewage dump to a run-in with a psychotic trucker.
Cast: Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Leslie Mann, Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Skyler Gisondo, Steele Stebbins, Chris Hemsworth, Charlie Day, and Norman Reedus.
Reception: The film received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its cast and comedic moments but criticism for its reliance on crude humor. Despite this, it performed well at the box office, grossing over $104 million worldwide. The nostalgic nods to the original series, including cameos by Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo, were particularly appreciated by long-time fans.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": "Vacation" captures the essence of family comedy, much like "Grown Ups," by blending humor with heartfelt moments. Both films explore the dynamics of family and friendship, with humor derived from relatable life situations and over-the-top antics. Additionally, both movies feature ensemble casts that bring their characters to life with a mix of comedic timing and genuine chemistry.
Recommendation Statement: "Vacation" is an ideal pick for fans of family-friendly comedies who appreciate a mix of laugh-out-loud moments and touching family interactions. Its blend of nostalgic references and fresh humor ensures a fun viewing experience for both new audiences and fans of the original series.

Blended (2014)

Plot Summary: In this heartwarming comedy, single parents Jim Friedman (Adam Sandler) and Lauren Reynolds (Drew Barrymore) find themselves on a disastrous blind date that couldn't end soon enough. Despite their mutual disdain, fate brings them together again when they each independently book a family vacation at an African safari resort. With their respective children in tow, Jim and Lauren are forced to share a suite and navigate the challenges of blending their families. As they embark on various adventures, from awkward safari tours to heartwarming bonding activities, they begin to see each other in a new light, leading to unexpected romantic sparks.
Cast: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Bella Thorne, Emma Fuhrmann, Braxton Beckham, Alyvia Alyn Lind, Joel McHale, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Terry Crews, and Shaquille O'Neal.
Reception: "Blended" received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the chemistry between Sandler and Barrymore but criticized the film for its formulaic plot. However, audiences appreciated the heartfelt moments and family-friendly humor, contributing to its moderate box office success, with over $128 million grossed worldwide. The film's picturesque African setting and humorous yet touching family dynamics resonated with viewers, especially those who enjoy Sandler and Barrymore's previous collaborations.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Like "Grown Ups," "Blended" centers on the themes of family, friendship, and the humor found in everyday life. Both films feature ensemble casts that create a lively, dynamic atmosphere and explore the complexities of modern family relationships. The comedic chemistry between Sandler and Barrymore mirrors the camaraderie seen in "Grown Ups," making "Blended" a fitting choice for fans of feel-good comedies.
Recommendation Statement: "Blended" is a delightful journey filled with laughs, heartfelt moments, and the charm of Sandler and Barrymore's on-screen partnership. It's perfect for those who enjoy the humor and warmth of "Grown Ups" and are looking for another family-centric comedy that balances humor with genuine emotion.

Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)

Plot Summary: This zany comedy follows a group of four disillusioned friends who, after a night of heavy drinking in a dilapidated ski resort, discover that their hot tub is a time machine. The unexpected time-traveling adventure transports them back to 1986, giving them a second chance to right the wrongs of their past. As they navigate the bizarre and often hilarious challenges of reliving their younger days, they must ensure they don't alter the future too drastically.
Cast: John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, Clark Duke, Crispin Glover, Lizzy Caplan, and Chevy Chase.
Reception: "Hot Tub Time Machine" received positive reviews for its outrageous humor, clever premise, and nostalgic references to the 1980s. Critics praised the performances, particularly those of Rob Corddry and Craig Robinson, for their comedic timing and chemistry. The film was a moderate box office success, earning over $64 million worldwide, and has since gained a cult following.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Both "Hot Tub Time Machine" and "Grown Ups" explore themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the humorous side of midlife crises. While "Grown Ups" focuses on the camaraderie of old friends reconnecting in the present, "Hot Tub Time Machine" adds a sci-fi twist by allowing its characters to revisit their past, offering a unique blend of humor and reflection.
Recommendation Statement: For those who enjoyed the humor and heartfelt moments of "Grown Ups," "Hot Tub Time Machine" offers a similarly entertaining ride with a sci-fi twist. It's a hilarious journey that blends the absurd with the nostalgic, making it a must-watch for fans of time-travel comedies.

Couples Retreat (2009)

Plot Summary: This comedy centers around four couples who embark on a vacation to a tropical island resort. The trip, initially intended to be a relaxing getaway, turns into a mandatory therapy retreat. As they engage in various couples' therapy sessions and activities, they confront their relationship issues, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt moments. The film explores themes of love, commitment, and the complexities of long-term relationships.
Cast: Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau, Faizon Love, Kristin Davis, Kristen Bell, Malin Åkerman, and Kali Hawk.
Reception: "Couples Retreat" received mixed reviews from critics, but it was a commercial success, grossing over $171 million worldwide. Audiences appreciated the relatable humor and the chemistry among the cast members. The picturesque island setting and comedic situations also contributed to its appeal.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Both movies delve into the themes of friendship and relationship dynamics. While "Grown Ups" focuses on the camaraderie of lifelong friends navigating adulthood, "Couples Retreat" emphasizes romantic relationships and the humorous challenges of maintaining them. Both films offer a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, making "Couples Retreat" a fitting choice for fans of "Grown Ups."
Recommendation Statement: If you enjoyed the mix of comedy and heart in "Grown Ups," "Couples Retreat" is a perfect pick. It combines hilarious relationship antics with genuine moments of connection, all set against the backdrop of a stunning tropical paradise.

The Change-Up (2011)

Plot Summary: This body-swapping comedy follows the lives of Mitch Planko, a carefree bachelor, and Dave Lockwood, a married lawyer with kids. After a night of drinking, the two friends magically switch bodies after wishing for each other's lives while urinating in a fountain. Hilarity ensues as they struggle to adapt to their new realities, learning valuable life lessons along the way.
Cast: Jason Bateman, Ryan Reynolds, Leslie Mann, Olivia Wilde.
Reception: "The Change-Up" received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of Bateman and Reynolds but criticism for its crude humor. Despite this, the film found an audience that appreciated its outrageous comedy and heartwarming moments, grossing over $75 million worldwide.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Both films explore themes of friendship and the complexities of adult life, blending humor with relatable life challenges. While "Grown Ups" focuses on lifelong friends reuniting, "The Change-Up" uses a fantastical premise to highlight the differences between single and married life, leading to comedic and touching moments.
Recommendation Statement: If you loved the humor and camaraderie in "Grown Ups," "The Change-Up" is a great follow-up. It offers a fresh take on the classic body-swap genre, filled with laughs and life lessons.

American Reunion (2012)

Plot Summary: "American Reunion" brings the original "American Pie" gang back together for their high school reunion. Jim, Michelle, Stifler, Finch, Kevin, and Oz return to East Great Falls for a weekend filled with nostalgia, wild parties, and unexpected reunions. As they reconnect, they confront the changes in their lives since high school, rekindle old friendships, and reflect on how much they’ve grown (or not).
Cast: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Seann William Scott, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Tara Reid, Eddie Kaye Thomas.
Reception: The film received mixed reviews from critics but was generally appreciated by fans for its nostalgic appeal and humor. It performed well at the box office, grossing over $235 million worldwide, proving that the charm of the original cast still resonated with audiences.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Both movies revolve around reunions and the hilarity that ensues when old friends come back together. They explore the themes of adulthood, friendship, and dealing with the changes that come with age, all wrapped in a comedic package. Like "Grown Ups," "American Reunion" mixes humor with heartfelt moments, making it a relatable and entertaining watch.
Recommendation Statement: For fans of "Grown Ups" who enjoy comedy with a touch of nostalgia, "American Reunion" is a perfect pick. It revisits beloved characters and delivers a blend of raunchy humor and sincere reflections on growing up.

Just Go with It (2011)

Plot Summary: In "Just Go with It," Adam Sandler plays Dr. Danny Maccabee, a successful plastic surgeon who pretends to be unhappily married to avoid committing to relationships. When he meets the woman of his dreams, Palmer (Brooklyn Decker), his web of lies spirals out of control, leading him to enlist his assistant, Katherine (Jennifer Aniston), to pose as his soon-to-be ex-wife. To further complicate matters, Katherine's children get involved, and the entire group embarks on a wild trip to Hawaii.
Cast: Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Brooklyn Decker, Nick Swardson, Nicole Kidman, Bailee Madison, Griffin Gluck.
Reception: "Just Go with It" received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing over $215 million worldwide. Audiences appreciated the chemistry between Sandler and Aniston and the comedic situations that arise from the convoluted plot.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Like "Grown Ups," "Just Go with It" features Adam Sandler in a lead role and blends humor with heartwarming moments. Both films revolve around a close-knit group of characters navigating comedic scenarios while emphasizing themes of friendship and family.
Recommendation Statement: If you enjoyed the humor and camaraderie in "Grown Ups," you'll find "Just Go with It" equally entertaining. The film's mix of romantic comedy and family dynamics, combined with Sandler and Aniston's engaging performances, makes it a delightful watch.

Daddy’s Home (2015)

Plot Summary: In "Daddy’s Home," Brad Whitaker (Will Ferrell) is a mild-mannered stepfather trying his best to connect with his wife's children when their biological father, Dusty Mayron (Mark Wahlberg), re-enters the picture. As Brad and Dusty compete for the kids' affection, their rivalry escalates into a series of comedic misadventures, testing their limits and challenging their perceptions of fatherhood.
Cast: Will Ferrell, Mark Wahlberg, Linda Cardellini, Thomas Haden Church, Scarlett Estevez, Owen Vaccaro.
Reception: The film received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing over $242 million worldwide. Audiences praised the dynamic between Ferrell and Wahlberg, as well as the film's blend of slapstick humor and heartfelt moments.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Like "Grown Ups," "Daddy’s Home" explores themes of family dynamics and the complexities of adult relationships, albeit in a different context. Both films feature a star-studded cast and offer plenty of laughs while delivering underlying messages about love and acceptance.
Recommendation Statement: If you enjoyed the comedic chemistry of the ensemble cast in "Grown Ups," you'll find "Daddy’s Home" equally entertaining. Ferrell and Wahlberg's comedic rivalry, combined with the film's heartwarming moments, makes it a must-watch for fans of lighthearted comedies.

Billy Madison (1995)

Plot Summary: In "Billy Madison," Adam Sandler stars as the titular character, Billy, a dim-witted man-child who must repeat grades 1-12 to inherit his father's fortune and take over the family business. As Billy embarks on his educational journey, he encounters a series of absurd challenges, confronts his past mistakes, and ultimately learns valuable life lessons along the way.
Cast: Adam Sandler, Darren McGavin, Bridgette Wilson, Bradley Whitford, Josh Mostel, Norm Macdonald.
Reception: While initially receiving mixed reviews from critics, "Billy Madison" has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a classic comedy. Audiences were drawn to Sandler's zany performance and the film's offbeat humor, propelling it to box office success and cementing its place in comedy history.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": "Billy Madison" shares a similar brand of humor with "Grown Ups," characterized by its irreverent comedy and Sandler's signature style. Both films feature Sandler in comedic roles surrounded by a talented ensemble cast, delivering laugh-out-loud moments while exploring themes of friendship, redemption, and personal growth.
Recommendation Statement: If you enjoyed Adam Sandler's comedic antics in Grown Ups, Billy Madison is a must-watch. With its absurd premise, memorable characters, and quotable lines, this comedy classic is sure to tickle your funny bone and leave you entertained from start to finish.

Jack and Jill (2011)

Plot Summary: In "Jack and Jill," Adam Sandler stars as both Jack and his twin sister Jill, who visit each other for the holidays. Jack, a successful advertising executive, dreads spending time with his overbearing and eccentric sister, leading to a series of comedic misadventures as Jill's visit becomes increasingly chaotic. As the siblings navigate their differences and familial dynamics, they ultimately learn the importance of family and acceptance.
Cast: Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes, Al Pacino.
Reception: "Jack and Jill" received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Sandler's dual performance but criticism for its humor and reliance on crude jokes. Despite the lukewarm reception, the film found success at the box office, appealing to audiences drawn to Sandler's unique brand of comedy.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Like "Grown Ups," "Jack and Jill" features Adam Sandler in multiple comedic roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Both films explore themes of family, friendship, and the absurdities of everyday life, delivering laughs while touching on relatable experiences and relationships.
Recommendation Statement: If you're a fan of Adam Sandler's humor and enjoy ensemble comedies like "Grown Ups," "Jack and Jill" offers a comedic twist with Sandler's dual roles and memorable performances. While it may not be for everyone, the film's quirky humor and heartfelt moments make it worth a watch for fans of Sandler's work.

Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)

Plot Summary: In "Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion," best friends Romy and Michele decide to attend their high school reunion in hopes of impressing their former classmates with their newfound success. However, as they reflect on their lives and reminisce about the past, they realize that true happiness comes from being themselves. The film follows their quirky journey of self-discovery, friendship, and embracing individuality amidst the pressures of conformity.
Cast: Lisa Kudrow, Mira Sorvino, Janeane Garofalo.
Reception: Initially met with mixed reviews, "Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion" has since gained a cult following and is celebrated for its quirky humor, memorable quotes, and empowering message of self-acceptance. While not a box office blockbuster, the film has endured as a beloved comedy classic that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Comparison to "Grown Ups": Like "Grown Ups," "Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion" explores themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the comedic complexities of adulthood. Both films offer a blend of humor and heart, celebrating the bonds of friendship and the journey of self-discovery amidst life's ups and downs.
Recommendation Statement: If you're a fan of feel-good comedies with a touch of nostalgia and quirky humor, "Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion" is a must-watch. With its relatable characters, memorable one-liners, and empowering message, the film is sure to leave you smiling and inspired.

In summary, these movies stand as remarkable alternatives for those craving the laughter and camaraderie synonymous with "Grown Ups." Whether you seek a family-friendly escapade or a journey through the annals of time, these films promise something special for every viewer.

Ready for more laughs? Dive into these cinematic delights and unlock the joy of comedy cinema. Stay tuned for further recommendations and reviews to expand your cinematic repertoire!