Watch Why We Laugh: Funny Women

Why We Laugh: Funny Women is a documentary film released in 2013 examining the contributions and experiences of female comedians throughout history. The film features interviews with some of the most famous names in comedy, such as Joan Rivers, Kim Wayans, and Tig Notaro, as well as many lesser-known, but equally talented women who have left a lasting impact on the industry.

The documentary begins with a discussion of the earliest female comedians, such as Fanny Brice and Lucille Ball, who faced significant challenges in a male-dominated field. Despite this, women like Phyllis Diller and Joan Rivers were able to carve out successful careers for themselves by breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities.

The film also explores the challenges faced by women of color and LGBTQ comedians, such as Whoopi Goldberg and Ellen DeGeneres, who had to overcome additional prejudices in order to achieve mainstream success.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to a wide range of comedic styles and perspectives, from the raunchy humor of Sarah Silverman to the social commentary of Wanda Sykes. The film also highlights the role of female comedians as trailblazers for other women in the entertainment industry, paving the way for female writers, producers, and directors.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Why We Laugh: Funny Women is the discussion of the unique challenges faced by female comedians, both on and off stage. Many women discuss the pressure to conform to strict beauty standards and the constant criticism of their appearances. This pressure can be especially difficult for comedians who use their bodies and physical appearance as part of their comedy, such as Margaret Cho and Amy Schumer.

The film also delves into the darker side of the industry, including stories of sexual harassment and assault. Many of the women featured in the film discuss instances of harassment they have experienced, such as being heckled or groped by audience members, or having their jokes stolen by male comedians. The documentary also touches on the #MeToo movement and the impact it has had on the entertainment industry.

Why We Laugh: Funny Women is a powerful and insightful documentary that sheds light on the experiences of female comedians throughout history. The film is not only entertaining, but also educational, highlighting the contributions of women who have often been overlooked or underappreciated in the industry. Whether you are a fan of comedy or not, this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the challenges and triumphs of women in entertainment.

Why We Laugh: Funny Women is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.