May 2013 was a great month for comedies at the box office. From romantic comedies to superhero flicks packed with action and humor, the month had a variety of laughs to go around for moviegoers. First on the list is "1st Night," a comedy film by director Christopher Menaul. The film stars Richard Grant and Sarah Brightman as Adam and Celia, an operatic couple who must overcome cultural barriers to achieve their dreams.
Adam is a wealthy capitalist who spends his free time singing opera. He is made fun of by his industrialist friends for using his money to secure a position in the competitive industry, so he decides to use his considerable wealth to stage his own opera. He brings in Celia, the conductor he has feelings for, to help him pull together his masterpiece. The addition of a young cast and a scandalous opera creates a weekend getaway full of romance, drama, and mayhem.
"Iron Man 3" is one of the most heavily anticipated films of the year. The third installment of the popular Marvel comic-book hero franchise did not fail to disappoint at the box office, turning out numerous loyal fans for the most dramatic film in the franchise yet. While the film had much drama due to the destruction of Tony Stark's home and business, it also had plenty of the witty banter that fans have come to expect between Stark and his faithful right hand, Pepper Potts. Robert Downey Jr. is known for giving Iron Man a scathing wit and many memorable one-liners, and his role reprisal in "Iron Man 3" does not disappoint either.
"The Great Gatsby," also released in early May, delivered on a great amount of drama and comedy. Leonardo DiCaprio took the starring role as the youthful and sharp-witted Jay Gatsby. Toby Maguire plays Nick Carraway, a young and talented social climber determined to find his way into the good graces of the wealthy Gatsby. When he finds himself invited to one of Gatsby's legendary parties, he thinks his luck has finally taken an upward turn. Scandal and rivalry threaten to shake Nick's resolve to make it to the top of the social ladder as he uncovers the dirty truths hidden by his new and well-connected friends.
Fans of period pieces will love this drama for its fast-paced comedy, true to its setting. "The Great Gatsby" easily falls into the category of dark comedy with its heavy subject matter and unique style of narration, but the script is light where it needs to be and packed with more than a healthy dose of humor. The banter between Nick and the other party guests provides plenty of levity throughout the film, making it every bit as much a comedy as a drama, and fully successful on both counts.
"Tyler Perry Presents Peeples" is the latest family comedy from renowned filmmaker Tyler Perry. Unlike in Perry's other popular comedy films, his iconic character, Madea, is notably absent from "Peeples." The leading cast includes Craig Robinson, known for his role on the long-running American comedy "The Office," and Kerry Washington of "Scandal" fame. "Peeples" focuses on a wealthy family of judges, socialites, and lawyers. The Peeples vacation in their beachside home each year to catch up and review their lofty accomplishments. This year, Grace Peeples, played by Washington, is joined by her boyfriend and hopeful fiancé, Wade. Wade crashes the Peeples' family reunion with hilarious results in an attempt to gain the approval of his future in-laws and win Grace's hand in marriage.
Robinson proves that he can act outside of the box created by his perpetually unimpressed character from the office. Unlike Daryl, Wade is eager to impress, and his enthusiastic antics are heartwarming and sure to win over audiences. When Wade's brother shows up to the reunion, the humorous film turns hilarious, making "Peeples" a summer comedy to remember.
When it comes to summer comedy blockbusters, May has a bit of something to offer to everyone. From dark period comedies to family drama and superhero crusades, comedy is definitely a theme for the latest movies of May. "1st Night" is a classic romantic comedy filled with sparks of tension and musical rivalry. "Iron Man 3" is an action-packed superhero film with plenty of great one-liners and scenario comedy. "Peeples" is a sure-fire hit for fans of Perry's stream of comedies and makes a solid addition to the family comedy genre. "The Great Gatsby" is a classic period piece full of witty banter and dramatic situations. Whatever type of film you are in the mood for, plenty of comedy gold is available to choose from.
