Martin Short, the acclaimed comedic actor, recently shared his thoughts on what constitutes perfect comedy in cinema. Known for his adeptness in adapting to the evolving landscape of humor, Short emphasized the significance of recognizing how tastes change over time. With a legacy that includes iconic performances in beloved films from the 1980s and ‘90s, Short has successfully reconnected with modern audiences through his role in the hit Hulu series, Only Murders in the Building, alongside comedy greats Steve Martin and Selena Gomez.
Reflecting on his extensive career during an interview with Screen Slate, Short acknowledged that while some films may age better than others, a few comedic classics have an enduring charm that resonates across generations. He specifically highlighted “Young Frankenstein” and “Annie Hall” as examples of what he deems “literally perfection.”
“You can still look at Young Frankenstein, and I think it’s literally perfection,” Short asserted. His admiration for Mel Brooks’ work, particularly this film, stems from its clever homage to Universal’s classic horror films, as well as its lasting impact on later parodies. The musical adaptation of “Young Frankenstein” has only cemented its cherished status among audiences.
On the other hand, “Annie Hall,” while regarded as a groundbreaking romantic comedy, carries a more complicated legacy, largely due to its writer and director Woody Allen’s controversial reputation. Despite this, Short acknowledged the film’s significance in shaping the romantic comedy genre and praised Diane Keaton’s remarkable performance, noting the challenges of separating the art from the artist in contemporary discussions.
In his career, Short has also produced memorable family-centered comedies, such as “Father of the Bride,” which remains a beloved classic. Meanwhile, his performance in Paul Thomas Anderson’s noir mystery, “Inherent Vice,” has garnered renewed appreciation from audiences, marking it as a significant highlight among his diverse portfolio.
As Short navigates the ever-changing world of comedy, his insights serve as a reminder that while tastes evolve, certain works will always find ways to delight and resonate with viewers, proving that timelessness in art exists despite changing societal perspectives.