Beauty pageants are often seen as glamorous and serious events, but they can also be a goldmine for comedy. This collection of films showcases the lighter, funnier side of these competitions, where contestants, judges, and organizers find themselves in hilariously awkward situations. Whether it's the quest for the crown or the chaos behind the scenes, these movies offer a comedic take on the world of beauty pageants, providing both entertainment and a satirical look at societal norms.

The Beautician and the Beast (1997)
Description: A beautician from Queens is mistaken for a science teacher and ends up teaching the children of a dictator, leading to a comedic beauty pageant subplot.
Fact: Fran Drescher, known for "The Nanny," stars and co-wrote the screenplay. The film was shot in Slovakia.


Miss Congeniality (2000)
Description: FBI agent Gracie Hart goes undercover in the Miss United States beauty pageant to prevent a terrorist attack. Her lack of grace and charm makes for a comedic journey through the world of beauty pageants.
Fact: Sandra Bullock did most of her own stunts, including the famous fight scene in the bathroom. The film also inspired a sequel, "Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous."


The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Description: While not a traditional beauty pageant, the film includes a royal ball where Mia Thermopolis must find a suitable prince, turning the event into a comedic spectacle.
Fact: The film was shot in Los Angeles, standing in for Genovia. Julie Andrews, who plays the queen, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role in the first film.


Beauty Shop (2005)
Description: While not strictly about a beauty pageant, this film involves a beauty salon where the owner and her staff participate in a hair show competition, which has elements of a pageant.
Fact: Queen Latifah, who stars in the film, also served as a producer. The movie is a spin-off from the "Barbershop" franchise.


Hairspray (2007)
Description: While primarily about dance and integration, the film features a beauty pageant-like dance competition, showcasing the comedic side of the 1960s beauty culture.
Fact: The film was adapted from both the 1988 John Waters film and the Broadway musical. It was nominated for several Academy Awards.


Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Description: A family road trip to a beauty pageant turns into a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, with the youngest member, Olive, competing in the Little Miss Sunshine contest.
Fact: The film won two Oscars, including Best Original Screenplay. The character of Olive was inspired by a real-life beauty pageant contestant.


The House Bunny (2008)
Description: A former Playboy Bunny becomes the house mother of an unpopular sorority and helps them win a beauty pageant, teaching them about self-esteem and friendship along the way.
Fact: Anna Faris, who plays the lead, was nominated for a Teen Choice Award for her performance. The film also features cameos by several Playboy Playmates.


Miss Firecracker (1989)
Description: A woman enters a beauty pageant to prove she's more than just a "firecracker," leading to comedic and touching moments as she navigates the competition.
Fact: The film was based on a play by Beth Henley. Holly Hunter, who stars, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance.


Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999)
Description: This mockumentary follows the cutthroat world of the Sarah Rose Cosmetics Mount Rose American Teen Princess Pageant, where contestants will do anything to win, including sabotage.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life beauty pageant documentaries. Denise Richards, who plays a contestant, was actually a former beauty queen in real life.


Miss Nobody (2010)
Description: A dark comedy where a secretary at a pharmaceutical company enters a beauty pageant to get noticed, leading to a series of comedic and criminal events.
Fact: The film was shot in Prague, despite its American setting. It was Leslie Bibb's first lead role in a feature film.
