Top 10 Comedies Set on Military Bases

Description: Goldie Hawn plays a spoiled heiress who joins the Army after her husband dies on their wedding night. Her journey through basic training and life on a military base provides plenty of laughs.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life story of a woman who joined the Army after a failed marriage. Goldie Hawn won a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for her role.

Description: Bill Murray stars as a cab driver who joins the Army to escape his mundane life, leading to a series of comedic events on a military base. This film captures the essence of military life with a humorous twist.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a vehicle for Chevy Chase, but Bill Murray's improvisational skills made it a classic. It also features a memorable scene where Murray leads a platoon through a grueling obstacle course.

Description: While primarily a drama, this film includes comedic moments as Richard Gere's character navigates the rigors of Navy Officer Candidate School, offering a lighter look at military training.

Fact: The film was a major box office success and won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Song for "Up Where We Belong."

Description: While not exclusively set on a military base, Robin Williams' character, a radio DJ, provides comic relief to soldiers in Vietnam, capturing the spirit of military life.

Fact: Robin Williams improvised much of his dialogue, which led to a more authentic and humorous portrayal of his character.

Description: A spoof of Top Gun, this film follows a fighter pilot on a military base as he navigates through ridiculous situations and parodies military tropes.

Fact: Charlie Sheen, who stars as the lead, improvised many of his lines, contributing to the film's unique humor. The movie also features a young Cary Elwes.

Description: Damon Wayans stars as a tough Marine drill instructor who must whip a group of misfit cadets into shape, leading to comedic training sessions on a military base.

Fact: The film was inspired by the 1955 film "The Private War of Major Benson," which also dealt with a military instructor's challenges.

Description: During the Vietnam War, a group of soldiers must transport an elephant across enemy lines, leading to comedic mishaps on a military base.

Fact: The film is based on a true story from the Vietnam War where the U.S. military did indeed transport an elephant. The elephant in the movie was named Tai.

Description: Kelsey Grammer plays a maverick Navy officer given command of a dilapidated submarine, leading to comedic chaos as he tries to prove his worth on a military base.

Fact: The film was shot on the USS Pampanito, a real WWII submarine, which added authenticity to the setting. The movie also features a cameo by Rob Schneider.

Description: Steve Martin plays the scheming Sergeant Bilko, who runs a motor pool on a military base with a knack for gambling and scams, leading to comedic chaos.

Fact: The film is based on the 1950s TV series "The Phil Silvers Show." Steve Martin's portrayal was well-received, capturing the essence of the original character.

Description: This HBO film satirizes the development of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, showcasing the absurdities of military bureaucracy and the comedic aspects of life on a military base.

Fact: The film is based on a true story detailed in a book by Colonel James Burton, who was involved in the real-life events.