Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America Poster
Comedy
Documentary

Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America (2009) Review in 2025

7/10
Flop

Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America is a documentary film that explores the history of American comedy, featuring interviews with legendary comedians and behind-the-scenes footage.

1 hour 35 minutes
English (Dubbed: None)
Age group: 18-65, Interests: Comedy, History
Director:
Chris Hunter
Budget: 100 million USD
Gross: 500 thousand USD

Family-Friendly Rating

Is this movie suitable for family viewing?

This documentary is suitable for all ages, but may not be of particular interest to young children.

CineReview Recommendation

This documentary is worth watching for comedy fans and history buffs, but may not be of particular interest to others.

Spoiler Alert!

Hover to reveal spoiler summary

The film takes a deep dive into the evolution of American comedy, from vaudeville to modern-day stand-up, with a focus on the pioneers who paved the way for future generations of comedians.

Review Details

story8.00/10

The story is engaging and informative, providing a comprehensive history of American comedy. The film's structure is well-organized, making it easy to follow and understand.

acting9.00/10

The interviews with comedians are excellent, with many memorable moments. The actors bring their unique personalities to the film, making it enjoyable to watch.

characters7.00/10

The interviews with legendary comedians are the highlight of the film, offering valuable insights into the world of comedy. However, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped.

direction8.00/10

The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and style. The editing is also well-done, with a good balance of humor and seriousness.

cinematography6.00/10

The cinematography is adequate, but not particularly impressive. The behind-the-scenes footage is interesting, but the overall visual style is somewhat dull.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Engaging story, excellent interviews with comedians, well-organized structure.

Cons

Underdeveloped supporting characters, dull cinematography.

Notable Quotes

"Comedy is like a rollercoaster. You never know when it's going to go off the rails."
"Comedy is the best way to make people laugh, but it's also a way to make people think."
"I'm not a comedian, I'm a historian of comedy."

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