Dudley Moore. John Gielgud. Liza Minelli. With names like that, the original Arthur (1981) was destined to be a hit, and here are 20 reasons why it just might be the greatest comedy film of all time.
1. The Opening Scene
What better way to start a movie about a lovable, womanizing drunk than to have him being driven around New York at night, getting fall-down drunk, and picking up hookers?
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The sights of New York, the instantly-identifiable theme song, and Arthur's incessant laughter instantly set up the entire movie - and laughter is infectious. By the time the opening credits are done, you are definitely ready to laugh.
2. Drunk Dudley Moore
Nobody, and I mean NOBODY has ever played a drunk as well as Dudley Moore in Arthur. The laughter, the voice, the facial expressions, the eyes, and the body language all come together with absolute perfection.
With scenes such as Arthur balancing his drink on the fender of his car and his falling into the gutter when his chauffeur opens the car door, it's hard to believe Dudley Moore isn't actually drunk. Again, absolute perfection.