Singin’ in the Rain
Okay, “Singin’ in the Rain” can be found in the musical section of any collection of movies, but it is funny enough to qualify as a comedy with music. Watching “Singin’ in the Rain” when you are sick can cheer you up with one particular sequence that combines uplifting music with slapstick comedy. Donald O’Connor’s incredibly athletic dancing when singing “Make ‘em Laugh” is a tour de force that ranks as one of the most comedic musical sequences in Hollywood history.
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein
“Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” combines the verbal wordplay of Abbott and Costello with the atmospheric plot that introduces Dracula, Frankenstein’s creature and the Wolfman. This mashing of genres makes this entry from Abbott and Costello appropriate for a viewing in full daylight or at night with all the lights turned out.
Raising Arizona
So much is going on in “Raising Arizona” that it will take your mind off your sickness. This great movie comedy features unbeatable performances from Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter. The verbal intricacies in the Coen Brothers’ script are entertaining enough to capture your imagination. The long chase sequence when Cage’s character is just trying to get a package of diapers is one of the funniest in movie history. You can’t but have your spirits lifted when watching “Raising Arizona.”
What’s Up, Doc
The plot complications in this Barbra Streisand/Ryan O’Neal movie are so complex that they make “Raising Arizona” look like “Dumber and Dumber.” “What’s Up, Doc” is a comedy that is guaranteed to take your mind off being under the weather as you struggle to keep up with where this story takes you. “What’s Up, Doc” also features the funniest car chase in movie history.
Arsenic and Old Lace
For pure flat out comedy based on laughs per minute, you can’t beat “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Cary Grant is at his absolute comedic peak in this little movie about the oldest and nicest serial killers in movie history. Keep an eye and ear out for the scene where Cary Grant’s character is trying to make a phone call to Happydale Sanitarium. Grant’s frantic hysterics are absolutely hysterical.
The Jerk