If you loved the dark humor and chaotic family dynamics of 'Where’s Poppa?' (1970), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that share the same irreverent comedy, dysfunctional family themes, and absurd situations. Whether you're a fan of George Segal's desperate antics or Ruth Gordon's unforgettable performance, these recommendations will keep you laughing and cringing in equal measure. Dive in to discover your next favorite dark comedy!

The Out-of-Towners (1970)
Description: Both films are New York-set comedies about urban chaos and the breakdown of social norms. They share a similar cynical humor about modern life and feature protagonists struggling against an uncaring world. The frantic pacing and escalating absurdity mirror 'Where's Poppa?'s style.
Fact: The film was remade in 1999 with Steve Martin and Goldie Hawn. Neil Simon based the script on his own bad experiences traveling to New York. It was one of the highest-grossing films of


The Owl and the Pussycat (1970)
Description: Both films are New York-set comedies about unlikely romantic pairings and feature Barbra Streisand in a comedic role. The clash of personalities and social classes creates similar comedic tension. The rapid-fire dialogue and urban setting mirror 'Where's Poppa?'s style.
Fact: Based on a Broadway play that originally starred Alan Alda and Diana Sands. Streisand's first purely comedic film role. George Segal and Streisand improvised many scenes.


Harold and Maude (1971)
Description: Like 'Where's Poppa?', 'Harold and Maude' is a dark comedy that explores themes of dysfunctional family relationships and existential angst. Both films use absurd humor to tackle serious subjects, blending satire with heartfelt moments. The eccentric characters and unconventional love stories in both films challenge societal norms.
Fact: The film was initially a box office failure but later became a cult classic. The soundtrack features songs by Cat Stevens. Director Hal Ashby was known for his countercultural films.


The Hospital (1971)
Description: Another dark comedy from the same era that, like 'Where's Poppa?', uses institutional settings to explore human dysfunction. Both films feature George C. Scott in lead roles and share a bleakly humorous view of societal collapse. The satirical edge and absurdist plot twists are similar.
Fact: Paddy Chayefsky won an Oscar for his screenplay. The film was inspired by Chayefsky's own hospital experiences. It was one of the first films to critically examine the healthcare system.


A New Leaf (1971)
Description: This film shares 'Where's Poppa?'s dark comedic tone and themes of personal transformation through absurd situations. Both movies feature protagonists who are initially selfish but undergo unexpected changes. The satirical take on human behavior and relationships is a common thread.
Fact: Elaine May wrote, directed, and starred in the film. The original cut was over 3 hours long but was drastically edited by the studio. It was Walter Matthau's favorite of his own films.


Plaza Suite (1971)
Description: Like 'Where's Poppa?', this film explores multiple stories about dysfunctional relationships with a darkly comic edge. Both films use New York settings to highlight human foibles and feature Walter Matthau in multiple roles. The blend of humor and melancholy is similar.
Fact: Based on Neil Simon's hit Broadway play. Walter Matthau played all three male leads. The film consists of three separate stories set in the same hotel suite.


The Prisoner of Second Avenue (1975)
Description: Like 'Where's Poppa?', this is a New York-set dark comedy about urban stress and family tensions. Both films explore the thin line between sanity and madness in modern life, using humor to address serious themes of mental health and social decay.
Fact: Based on Neil Simon's Broadway play. Jack Lemmon and Anne Bancroft starred in both the play and film. The film captures the economic anxieties of 1970s New York.


The Ritz (1976)
Description: This shares 'Where's Poppa?'s farcical elements and exploration of taboo subjects through comedy. Both films feature chaotic chase sequences and mistaken identities in New York settings. The irreverent humor and celebration of eccentricity are similar.
Fact: Based on Terrence McNally's Broadway play. Features one of Rita Moreno's most acclaimed performances. The film was shot in an actual New York bathhouse.


California Suite (1978)
Description: This shares 'Where's Poppa?'s episodic structure and ensemble cast approach to comedy. Both films use multiple storylines to explore different aspects of human relationships with a mix of humor and pathos. The sharp, dialogue-driven humor is similar.
Fact: Maggie Smith won an Oscar for her performance. Based on Neil Simon's play of the same name. Features four separate stories set in the same hotel.


The In-Laws (1979)
Description: This shares 'Where's Poppa?'s manic energy and focus on family relationships gone awry. Both films feature ordinary people caught in increasingly bizarre situations, with humor derived from escalating chaos. The contrast between straight-laced and eccentric characters is a common element.
Fact: The film was remade in 2003 with Michael Douglas and Albert Brooks. Alan Arkin and Peter Falk improvised much of their dialogue. The 'serpentine' scene became iconic in comedy history.
