The Comic (1969): cast, story & where to watch
1969 · Film · ★ 6.3
Released in 1969, The Comic is a comedy and drama film directed by Carl Reiner, running about 95 minutes. “A funny new motion picture that tells Hollywood like it was!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. An account of the rise and fall of a silent film comic, Billy Bright. The movie begins with his funeral, as he speaks from beyond the grave in a bitter tone about his fate, and takes us through his fame, as he ruins it with womanizing and drink, and his fall, as a lonely, bitter old man unable to reconcile his life's disappointments. The movie is based loosely on the life of Buster Keaton.
Who’s in it. The Comic stars Dick Van Dyke as Billy Bright, Michele Lee as Mary Gibson, Mickey Rooney as Cockeye and Cornel Wilde as Frank Powers, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.3/10, The Comic has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Comic page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Comic tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Comic (1969)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Comic change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Comic worth watching?
- The Comic holds an audience score of 6.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy comedy and drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Comic?
- The Comic stars Dick Van Dyke, Michele Lee, Mickey Rooney, Cornel Wilde and Nina Wayne.
- When was The Comic released?
- The Comic was released in 1969, with a runtime of about 95 minutes.