You know, I just noticed that the 1952 version of Monkey Business isn't on the list of AFI's Funniest Films (the 1931 Marx Bros comedy of the same name made the cut).
Directed by Howard Hawks, starring Cary Grant and Ginger Rogers, with supporting work by Charles Coburn, La Monroe, Hugh Marlowe, and George Winslow (child star--if you've never heard his voice, you're in for a treat). Screenplay by Ben Hecht (The Front Page) IAL Diamond (Some Like It Hot), and Charles Lederer (His Girl Friday). In short, an impeccable pedigree.
It doesn't surprise me that it didn't make the list. Not nearly enough people are familiar with this elegant and exceptionally funny farce. I was watching Bowfinger again last night and realized how similar the tone is. It sneaks up on you--this is a film in which much of the plot develops without dialog, and you have to watch close. Also as in Bowfinger, everyone plays it absolutely straight. Not for a single moment do any of these performers give you the impression that this is a comedy.
But the script is beautifully constructed and very funny. Probably the most famous bit shown from the movie is Monroe asking Grant, "Is your engine running?" and his response, "Yes. Is yours?" But the "Anyone can type" scene really ought to get more credit.
Rogers, who became very grande dame and hard to take in most of her 50s film, was still one of the finest comediennes in history when she didn't take herself seriously, and I contend this is her best performance. Her physical prowess is outstanding; watch for her bit with the glass of water. Grant does an entirely different take on the absentminded professor--low key and reserved. Except when he's not, of course.
The plot involves chimpanzees, goldfish, and a youth serum. And Indians, of course.
It's not out on DVD yet, and the video might be hard to find. AMC runs it fairly regularly, so look for it.
