Louis de Funès was a comedic genius whose slapstick humour, expressive face, and impeccable timing have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. This collection of his top 10 comedies not only showcases his talent but also provides a delightful journey through some of the most hilarious moments in film history. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, these films, all available with English dubbing, are sure to tickle your funny bone and leave you in stitches.
Hibernatus (1969)
Description: De Funès stars as a man who discovers a man frozen in ice since the 19th century, leading to a series of comedic attempts to adapt this "hibernatus" to modern life, all while keeping it a secret.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life discovery of a man frozen in ice in the Alps, though the real story was far less comedic.
Watch Now
Oscar (1967)
Description: A classic farce where de Funès plays a wealthy industrialist who, in one chaotic day, tries to marry off his daughter, deal with a financial scandal, and navigate a series of hilarious misunderstandings.
Fact: The film was remade in the U.S. in 1991 with Sylvester Stallone, but the original remains the gold standard for this type of comedy.
Watch Now
The Sucker (1965)
Description: De Funès and Bourvil star in this road trip comedy where a timid salesman is unwittingly dragged into a smuggling operation by a con artist, leading to a series of comedic misadventures across Europe.
Fact: The film was a massive box office success, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films of its time.
30 Days Free
Fantomas (1964)
Description: Although more of a crime comedy, de Funès' role as the bumbling journalist Fandor adds a layer of humor to this classic series about the elusive master criminal Fantomas.
Fact: The film was part of a trilogy, and de Funès' character became so popular that he often overshadowed the villain himself in audience affection.
30 Days Free
The Little Bather (1968)
Description: Here, de Funès plays a businessman who finds himself in a series of comedic situations after discovering a statue that looks just like him, leading to a whirlwind of mistaken identity and financial shenanigans.
Fact: The film features a memorable scene where de Funès, in a fit of rage, destroys his own office, showcasing his physical comedy skills.
30 Days Free
The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob (1973)
Description: This film is a riotous mix of mistaken identity, cultural clash, and slapstick comedy, where de Funès plays a bigoted businessman who must impersonate a rabbi to escape from trouble. It's a masterclass in physical comedy and social satire.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in France, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of all time there. It was also remade in English as "The Rabbi and the Gangster."
30 Days Free
The Gendarme Series (1976)
Description: In this culinary comedy, de Funès plays a renowned food critic who battles against a fast-food chain, leading to a series of hilarious culinary misadventures. The film is a delicious blend of satire and slapstick, with de Funès at his comedic best.
Fact: The film was shot in various real locations in France, including the famous restaurant Maxim's in Paris, adding authenticity to its culinary theme.
30 Days Free
The Troops in New York (1965)
Description: This entry in the Gendarme series sees the bumbling French police officers on a trip to New York, where their cultural misunderstandings and attempts at law enforcement provide non-stop laughter.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New York, which was quite rare for French films at the time, adding to its charm and authenticity.
30 Days Free
The Big Restaurant (1966)
Description: In this film, de Funès plays the owner of a prestigious restaurant who must deal with a series of bizarre and humorous events during a visit from a notorious food critic.
Fact: The film features an array of cameos by famous French actors and chefs, adding to its authenticity and appeal.
30 Days Free
