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Comedy Quote by Milton Berle

“Now a 'funnyman' can get a laugh before opening his mouth - looking funny. Lou Costello was one of your great funnymen. Harry Langdon, Larry Semon; they were all funnymen - they looked funny. W.C. Fields was never a comedian. Slim Summerville was a comedian, yet looked funny. Now if you have both…” quote by Milton Berle
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“Now a 'funnyman' can get a laugh before opening his mouth - looking funny. Lou Costello was one of your great funnymen. Harry Langdon, Larry Semon; they were all funnymen - they looked funny. W.C. Fields was never a comedian. Slim Summerville was a comedian, yet looked funny. Now if you have both attributes, you are in good shape.”

Milton Berle

About This Quote

Physical appearance can convey humor before speech, blurring lines between comedy and visual comedy.

In simple terms: Looks can be funny before words.

Key Takeaway

Use visual cues to enhance humor.

Themes

humor appearance performance

Mood

playful observational

Type

anecdotal observational

When to use this quote

  • stage acts
  • film
  • social media
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

visual comedy persona first impression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does visual humor affect audience expectations?
  • Can appearance replace wit?
A Different Perspective

Looks alone may not sustain comedic talent.

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