Are you ready to laugh and parry? Here's a collection of films that combine the elegance of fencing with the hilarity of comedy. These movies not only showcase the skill of sword fighting but also tickle your funny bone with their witty scripts and comedic timing. Whether you're a fan of classic slapstick or prefer more subtle humor, this list has something for everyone. Let's dive into the world where comedy meets the clashing of steel!

The Court Jester (1955)
Description: Danny Kaye stars in this classic comedy where he plays a bumbling jester who must protect the true heir to the throne, with fencing scenes that are both funny and surprisingly skillful.
Fact: The film's famous tongue twister, "The pellet with the poison's in the flagon with the dragon," was improvised by Kaye. Also, the fencing scenes were choreographed by the legendary Bob Anderson, who also worked on "Star Wars."


The Duellists (1977)
Description: Ridley Scott's debut film, while not a comedy, has moments of dark humor in its portrayal of dueling. The fencing scenes are meticulously crafted, making it a must-watch for fencing enthusiasts.
Fact: The film was based on a short story by Joseph Conrad. Also, the fencing was choreographed by William Hobbs, who also worked on "The Three Musketeers."


The Princess Bride (1987)
Description: This film is a delightful mix of romance, adventure, and comedy, with fencing scenes that are both humorous and thrilling. The duel between Inigo Montoya and the Man in Black is iconic in cinema history.
Fact: Mandy Patinkin, who played Inigo Montoya, drew inspiration from his own father's death to fuel his character's revenge quest. Also, the film's director, Rob Reiner, had to learn fencing to direct the sword fights effectively.


Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993)
Description: Mel Brooks' parody of the Robin Hood legend includes fencing scenes that are intentionally over-the-top and comedic, making it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: Cary Elwes, who played Robin Hood, had previously starred in "The Princess Bride," another fencing comedy. Also, the film features a cameo by Patrick Stewart as King Richard.


The Three Musketeers (1993)
Description: This adaptation of Dumas' classic novel features plenty of swordplay, with a humorous tone that sets it apart from more serious versions. The fencing scenes are both entertaining and well-executed.
Fact: The film's director, Stephen Herek, wanted to make the sword fights as realistic as possible, hiring fencing experts to train the actors. Also, Kiefer Sutherland, who played Athos, had to learn fencing for the role.


The Man in the Iron Mask (1998)
Description: While primarily a drama, this film has moments of levity, especially in the fencing scenes where D'Artagnan and the Musketeers showcase their skills with a touch of humor.
Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio played dual roles in the film, requiring him to learn fencing for both characters. Also, the film's fencing choreography was done by Bob Anderson.


The Mask of Zorro (1998)
Description: Although more action-oriented, this film includes comedic elements and features some of the most stylish fencing sequences in cinema, with Antonio Banderas and Anthony Hopkins delivering both laughs and swordplay.
Fact: The film's sword fights were choreographed by Bob Anderson, who was a former Olympic fencer. Also, the scene where Zorro carves his "Z" into a man's shirt was done in one take.


A Knight's Tale (2001)
Description: While not strictly about fencing, this medieval comedy features jousting and swordplay, with a comedic twist. The film's light-hearted approach to historical accuracy makes it a fun watch for fencing enthusiasts.
Fact: The film uses modern music in medieval settings, including a jousting scene set to Queen's "We Will Rock You." Also, Heath Ledger did most of his own stunts, including the sword fighting.


The Fencer (2015)
Description: This Finnish film, while more dramatic, has comedic elements in its portrayal of a former fencing champion teaching children, with fencing scenes that are both touching and humorous.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Endel Nelis, an Estonian fencer. Also, it was Estonia's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.


The Sword of Doom (1966)
Description: This Japanese film, while dark, has moments of black comedy in its portrayal of a master swordsman's descent into madness. The fencing scenes are intense but with a twisted sense of humor.
Fact: The film was directed by Kihachi Okamoto, known for his unique approach to samurai films. Also, the fencing scenes were choreographed by the legendary stunt coordinator, Hiroshi Inagaki.
