MovieChat Forums > Heaven Can Wait (1978) Discussion > Comedy? Where are the laughs?

Comedy? Where are the laughs?

posted 9 years ago by SilverGameDog
8 replies | jump to latest

Heaven Can Wait as a film is a mystery to me.
I enjoyed the film. I was entertained by it for sure.
But there are some things that just have me scratching my head.
First is how to categorize it. A comedy? I guess so, but tell, what are some of the funny lines? Or really funny scenes? Nothing stands out to me. But it's not a true drama either...
And next is the fact that this film was nominated for NINE Oscars?! Again, it was a cute story but best picture? Best actor? Best director?
Granted it didn't win any of these categories but still.
i really feel like I've missed something.

[–] scarlettsdad 9 years ago

Most of the humor comes from Dyan Cannon, Charles Grodin and Buck Henry. Granted, it's kind of black humor considering it's about death. But it's hardly a drama. Maybe more of a rom-com. It's just a sweet film that should at least make you smile, if not out and out burst out in laughter. I've always liked this movie and the parts I enjoy the most are with Cannon, who deserved her Oscar nomination.

[–] Blueghost 9 years ago

Yeah, that's a good way of putting it. It's not a big laugh out loud comedy, but nice little rom-com that does make me smile. It's a fairy tale.

[–] Bonnie_L 8 years ago

Really? Diane Cannon is hilarious. Charles Grodin? The reaction in the board room to Leo's speech. Funny stuff. At least to me. :)

[–] stwadsworth 8 years ago

They are both very funny in this! Even just their facial expressions!

[–] nutsberryfarm 8 years ago

a couple are in my pocket.

🎄Season's Greetings!🎄

[–] Ar_mp15 8 years ago

She saw a mouse.
Just now?
No, earlier, but she relives it.

That's hilarious!

[–] spookyrat1 8 years ago

First is how to categorize it. A comedy? I guess so, but tell, what are some of the funny lines? Or really funny scenes?

A rom-com fantasy IMO and I reckon just about any of the scenes with Jack Warden in them were funny, especially the "3 - way conversation" between he, Joe/Farnsworth and Mr Jordan. Regarding the 9 Oscar nominations, I tend to agree with you. It was The Deer Hunter that year followed by clear air in 2nd place. IMO, not a field of great depth.

This is an entertaining, feel good movie, that was incredibly well received critically in its day, but a great one? I don't think so. A good remake of another good movie.🐭

[–] kaneforgov 8 years ago

Wait, you mean everyone in the world doesn't find the same things funny?