Jealousy, that age-old emotion, has been a rich vein of comedy gold in cinema. Whether it's the petty squabbles of lovers or the hilarious misunderstandings between friends, these films showcase jealousy in all its comedic glory. Here's a selection of 10 films that will tickle your funny bone while exploring the lighter side of envy.
The Lavender Hill Mob (1951)
Description: A light-hearted crime caper where jealousy arises among the thieves over the spoils of their heist, leading to comedic situations.
Fact: Alec Guinness won the BAFTA Award for Best British Actor for his role in this film.
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The Ladykillers (1955)
Description: While primarily a crime comedy, the film includes elements of jealousy among the gang members, particularly when it comes to their leader's relationship with the old lady.
Fact: This film was remade in 2004 by the Coen Brothers, but the original remains a classic British comedy.
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A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
Description: This heist comedy features a love quadrangle where jealousy and betrayal are played for laughs, especially with the character of Otto (Kevin Kline), who is pathologically jealous.
Fact: Kevin Kline won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Otto.
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Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
Description: This British rom-com features a classic love triangle where jealousy plays a central role. Charles (Hugh Grant) is smitten with Carrie (Andie MacDowell), but his jealousy flares when she's with other men.
Fact: The film was a surprise hit, grossing over $245 million worldwide, and it helped launch Hugh Grant's career in Hollywood.
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The Full Monty (1997)
Description: This film about unemployed steelworkers turning to stripping features moments of jealousy, particularly when it comes to their wives' reactions to their new profession.
Fact: The film was a major success, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Musical or Comedy Score.
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About a Boy (2002)
Description: While not strictly a comedy about jealousy, the film has moments where Will (Hugh Grant) feels jealous of Marcus's relationship with his mother, leading to humorous situations.
Fact: The film was adapted from the novel by Nick Hornby and features a soundtrack by Badly Drawn Boy.
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The Importance of Being Earnest (2002)
Description: Oscar Wilde's classic play is brought to life with a touch of jealousy among the characters, particularly in the romantic entanglements of Jack and Algernon.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in England, including the real-life home of the playwright, Tite Street.
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St Trinian's (2007)
Description: In this anarchic comedy, jealousy among the students of St Trinian's school leads to a series of hilarious pranks and schemes.
Fact: The film is based on the original St Trinian's cartoons by Ronald Searle and features a host of British comedy talent.
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The Boat That Rocked (2009)
Description: Set on a pirate radio ship, this film includes a subplot where jealousy among the DJs leads to comedic rivalry over the affections of a young woman.
Fact: The film was inspired by real pirate radio stations that broadcasted off the coast of England in the 1960s.
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The Tall Guy (1989)
Description: In this comedy, a tall, awkward actor (Jeff Goldblum) becomes entangled in a love triangle, leading to some very funny moments of jealousy and rivalry.
Fact: This was the directorial debut of Mel Smith, and it features Rowan Atkinson in a supporting role.
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