Laughing at the Stars: Meteorite Comedy Films

Description: This British film combines science fiction with dark comedy, exploring the aftermath of nuclear testing causing the Earth's axis to shift, leading to catastrophic weather changes. The film's humor comes from the British stiff upper lip attitude in the face of global disaster.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white, with some scenes tinted to simulate the effects of the Earth's altered orbit. Also, it was one of the first films to use the term "global warming."

Description: This film mixes disaster movie elements with Cold War-era humor, as scientists from both the US and USSR must work together to deflect a giant meteor. The absurdity of the situation provides some comedic relief.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use computer-generated imagery (CGI) for its special effects, though they were quite primitive by today's standards.

Description: A space comedy where water is the universe's most valuable resource, and a meteorite plays a key role in the plot. The film's humor is derived from its parody of space operas and the absurdity of its premise.

Fact: The film was initially conceived as a serious sci-fi adventure but was rewritten to include more humor. Also, it was one of the first films to use CGI for space scenes.

Description: While not strictly a comedy, "Armageddon" has moments of unintentional humor, especially with its over-the-top action and the quirky dynamics among the oil drillers turned astronauts. The film's premise of averting a global catastrophe with a team of roughnecks is ripe for comedic interpretation.

Fact: The film was originally pitched as a serious drama, but the script evolved into a mix of action and unintentional comedy. Also, the scene where the crew sings "Leaving on a Jet Plane" was improvised.

Description: Although "Deep Impact" is more drama than comedy, its portrayal of human reactions to an impending comet strike includes moments of dark humor, especially in the portrayal of media and government responses.

Fact: The film was released in the same year as "Armageddon," leading to a summer of competing comet/asteroid movies. Also, the name of the comet in the film, "E.L.E." stands for "Extinction Level Event."

Description: While not centered on a meteorite, the film includes the destruction of Earth by a Vogon constructor fleet, which could be seen as a cosmic event. The film's humor is derived from its satirical take on sci-fi tropes.

Fact: The film was adapted from Douglas Adams' famous radio series, book, and TV series. Also, the voice of the Guide was provided by Stephen Fry, who also narrated the original radio series.

Description: Although not directly about a meteorite, this film involves an alien invasion that could be interpreted as a cosmic event. The humor comes from the group of friends trying to complete a pub crawl amidst the chaos.

Fact: The film is the third in Edgar Wright's "Cornetto Trilogy," following "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz." Also, the ending was kept secret from the actors until the day of shooting.

Description: While primarily a horror film, "Without Warning" has elements of dark comedy with its alien hunter using a meteorite as a weapon to hunt humans. The absurdity of the situation adds a comedic layer.

Fact: The film features an early role for Kevin Peter Hall, who later played the Predator in the "Predator" series. Also, it was one of the first films to use the concept of an alien hunter.

Description: A mix of horror, comedy, and sci-fi, this film follows two sisters who survive a comet's tail that turns most people into zombies. The film's light-hearted approach to the apocalypse makes it a unique entry in the genre.

Fact: The film was initially conceived as a serious horror movie but was rewritten to include more humor. Also, it features one of the earliest uses of the term "zombie" in a modern context.

Description: A superhero comedy where a meteor grants a man superpowers. The film's humor comes from the protagonist's struggle with his new abilities and the community's reaction to a local hero.

Fact: The film was directed by and stars Robert Townsend, who also co-wrote the script. It was one of the first superhero films to feature an African-American lead.