9 Comedy Filmmakers Who Deserve More Awards Recognition

2. Harold Ramis

Several filmmakers on this list also were actors or screenwriters in addition to directors. However, none of them did all three as well as Harold Ramis. While audiences might know him best for his on-camera appearances in Stripes, Ghostbusters, and Knocked Up, his acting was eclipsed by his work as a writer and director. Ramis seemingly had a hand in more than half of the classic comedies released between 1978 and 1984. In fact, upon his death in February 2014 many were surprised to find out from his obituaries that Ramis wrote Animal House, SCTV, Meatballs, Stripes, Ghostbusters, and Back to School. He also directed National Lampoon's Vacation, The Ice Harvest, and more recently episodes of the U.S. version of The Office. Finally, he served both creative roles on Caddyshack, Groundhog Day and Analyze This, among other films. One of the most impressive aspects of Ramis' movies is how they range from slapstick (Caddyshack) to more philosophical humor (Groundhog Day). The only major film award Ramis received was a BAFTA for Best Original Screenplay for Groundhog Day, which he shared with co-writer Danny Rubin. Despite all of his brilliant screenplays, the Writers Guild of America only nominated him once for Best Original Screenplay for 1979's Animal House.