They can simultaneously entertain and provoke thought.
10’Stripes' (1981)
Directed by Ivan Reitman
“Lighten up, Francis.”
He and his misfit platoon flail through basic training and a hilariously unconventional mission abroad.
Image via Paramount Pictures
Winger’s sarcastic humor and laid-back attitude clash with military discipline, creating a steady stream of comedic situations.
Murray is joined by a strong supporting cast, including the likes ofJohn CandyandHarold Ramis.
They all deliver the sharply written dialogue with glee.
Image via Columbia Pictures
Their egos and incompetence fuel the chaos, putting all their lives at risk.
For all these reasons, it’s already been canonized as a comedy classic.
The book is one of the defining anti-war novels, meaning that the movie had big shoes to fill.
It falls short of the source material but is still decent overall.
“David O. Russell’sThree Kingsisa genre-blending war comedy-dramaset during the aftermath of the Gulf War.
The movie works because it’s so well-rounded.
Finally, the stars all turn in committed performances, doing a lot to elevate their characters.
Though released in 1999,Three Kingsgained renewed relevance a few years later with the Iraq War.
They use dark humor and madcap antics to cope with the realities of war.
Always with the negative waves.”
Sutherland repeatedly steals the show with Oddball’s laid-back attitude and nonsensical philosophy.
The movie certainly won’t appeal to everyone.
Many will find it too cute and sanitized.
As tensions rise, Sefton must clear his name while navigating the dangers of captivity.
Holden won the Oscar for his performance, nailing the character’s mix of cynicism and resilience.
Image via Paramount Pictures
(Holden notably delivered the shortest Oscar acceptance speech ever: “Thank you, thank you.”
Holden is helped considerably byBilly Wilder’s assured direction.
It’s miles above most movies of its time, especially war ones.
Benny’s comedic timing is simply phenomenal here, resulting in more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.
Supporting actorTom Duganalso has some great moments, like when he impersonates Hitler and proclaims, “Heil Hitler!
PhilosopherSlavoj Zizekhas called it one of his five all-time favorite films,saying, “It is madness.
it’s possible for you to not do a better comedy I think.”
During the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes entangled in efforts to capture a German spy.
The themes are weighty, but Chaplin’s signature comedy is all present in spades.
The slapstick and visual gags are top-notch, while the tonal shifts are pulled off gracefully.
Consequently,The Great Dictatorhad a huge influence, inspiring everything fromThe DictatorandThe InterviewtoJojo Rabbit.
NEXT:10 2010s Movies With the Worst CGI, Ranked
Image via Hulu
Image via Warner Bros.
Image via Disney+.
Amid the backdrop of the Korean War, a team of maverick surgeons and nurses at a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital employs humor and irreverence as a means of survival against the relentless pressures of wartime. Their unorthodox behavior and pranks often put them at odds with the strict military hierarchy, yet their exceptional medical skills shine through. Through their unconventional methods, they forge deep connections and bring moments of levity to the dire circumstances they face daily. The film combines dark humor with sharp social commentary, presenting a striking portrayal of the absurdity and humanity found in the midst of conflict.
Image via MGM
Private Kelly, an American soldier in World War II, stumbles upon intelligence about a hidden stash of gold behind enemy lines. Rallying a motley crew of fellow soldiers, he devises a bold plan to infiltrate enemy territory and retrieve the treasure. As they embark on their high-stakes mission, the group encounters various challenges, from navigating through hostile environments to dealing with skeptical superiors, all while striving to achieve their ambitious goal and secure their fortunes.
Image via Fox Searchlight Pictures
Image via Paramount Pictures
Image via United Artists
During the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes entangled in efforts to capture a German spy. As they navigate the perils of wartime intrigue, the troupe’s members use their theatrical skills to outsmart the enemy, blending elements of comedy and suspense in their quest to aid the resistance.
Image via United Artists
