Fight Clip Club: The Court Jester

The pellet with the poison's in the vessel with the pestle; the chalice from the palace has the brew that is true.

We’re continuing with the funny fights this week, everyone, and you’d be surprised to hear that comedy and swords (or weaponry in general) don’t really mix very often. There’s plenty of swordfights that are swashbuckling and full of smiles and delight, but not very many that involves weaponry and bare comedy. The Anchorman group fight that I’ve analyzed before is one rarity, as is the later fight between Ron and Veronica that uses a bunch of found weapons like typewriters, antennae, and purse mace. But there’s something about swords that just …well it elevates the whole scene. So: funny with blades? Not as common. 

This movie and in particular this scene is one of these exceptions. Of course, we have one of modern times’ very best clowns playing the main hero character, which does help. And the whole intricate weird plot of RenFairey intrigue is only improved by Danny Kaye’s silver-tongued charm, let alone his mastery of physical comedy, which plays brilliantly into this silly fight scene.

But let’s watch it together, and I’ll discuss it from my professional perspective.