Follow us on Twitter
Winging It: Humor and Flying
The type of humor a society enjoys says a lot about that society. Why do we enjoy flying humor and airplane humor so much? Maybe we enjoy it because it’s so good. Check it out.
I am not sure exactly what it is about flying in an airplane that evokes laughter; perhaps it is because of some innate nervousness or worry over the fact that the passengers are in this little cylinder flying at fast speeds thousands of feet above Mother Earth.
Of course, tragic occurrences from the airways are reported every now and then. Still, the occasional accident does not seem to deter any (or many) people from flying. Flying is still convenient, fast, and more or less affordable. And as long as people are flying, there will be funny television shows and movies featuring this very topic.
The Beverly Hillbillies didn’t have a clue about a lot of things. They eventually figured out that when the doorbell rang, somebody inevitably would show up at the front door. In this scene below, they apparently believe they are on a large bus and are somewhat disturbed when it leaves the ground. This isn’t wildly slapstick, but it’s cute, well done, and it gives a good feel for many of the characters from that 1960’s favorite.
Beverly Hillbillies
Flying doesn’t have to always involve an airplane. This skit reminds me of an old version of Fahrenheit 451 I saw once; the wires supporting the people in jet packs are quite visible to the camera. Monty Python was hysterical in almost everything they produced. You’ll enjoy this.
Monty Python
Tim Conway and Harvey Korman are two of my all-time favorites, and they had the remarkable ability to make the other person laugh out of character.
Mr. Bean’s facial expressions are wonderfully done in this next skit.
And now for you, because you’re my friend … and because you made it this far through the article and haven’t left me yet … here’s another Monty Python skit. This one has nothing to do with flying or airplanes, but it was the first Python skit I ever saw and it has always been one of my favorites. Enjoy!
Liked it
10 Comments
Wonderful article, Joel. These skits do add so much humor to flying. Although, I loved the Beverly Hillbillies, Korman and Conway were a real treat too.
This is so funny! Love the videos!
The last Monty Python sketch didn’t work for me (probably not allowed in the UK) – the rest were absolutely hilarious. Monty Python has to be my favourite – great article, you have a wonderful sense of humour.
Great selection of videos. I really miss those old skits from the Carol Burnett show. And Python is just awesome. Good stuff, Joel.
Anything Python is sure to win me over! Great selection.
Nice piece!
Great videos, Joel.
Great picks. All so funny!
These are fun, I would love to see all these old shows come back.
haha, i enjoyed all the videos, especially mr. bean!