Opera, with its dramatic flair and melodious tunes, has often been a rich source of inspiration for filmmakers. This curated list of 10 comedy films about opera not only entertains but also celebrates the intersection of high art and humor. From backstage antics to the absurdity of opera plots, these films offer a unique blend of laughter and music, making them a must-watch for both opera enthusiasts and comedy lovers.

The Phantom of the Opera (1925)
Description: This silent film classic, while not strictly a comedy, includes humorous elements in its portrayal of the opera house's behind-the-scenes chaos, making it a fitting start to our list.
Fact: The film was remade several times, with the 2004 version featuring a more comedic approach to the story.


A Night at the Opera (1935)
Description: The Marx Brothers bring their unique brand of humor to the opera world, turning a performance into a hilarious spectacle.
Fact: The film was a major success, revitalizing the Marx Brothers' career and is often cited as one of their best works.


The Court Jester (1955)
Description: This film, while not directly about opera, features a comedic plot involving mistaken identity and a jester's attempt to save the day, with a memorable opera-like scene.
Fact: The film includes the famous tongue twister, "The pellet with the poison's in the flagon with the dragon."


The Music Man (1962)
Description: Although not strictly about opera, this musical comedy includes elements of opera in its portrayal of a con man who pretends to be a music professor.
Fact: The film was adapted from a Broadway musical and features several operatic-style songs.


The Producers (1967)
Description: While not about opera, this film includes a comedic musical number, "Springtime for Hitler," which parodies opera's grandiosity.
Fact: The film was adapted into a successful Broadway musical, which itself was later turned into a movie.


The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Description: This adaptation of the classic tale includes comedic moments, especially in the portrayal of the opera house's management and the antics of the Phantom.
Fact: The film features Emmy Rossum, who was only 17 during filming, as Christine.


The Great Caruso (1951)
Description: While primarily a biographical drama, this film includes comedic moments as it follows the life of the famous opera singer Enrico Caruso.
Fact: Mario Lanza, who played Caruso, was himself an opera singer, adding authenticity to the film's musical performances.


The Magic Flute (1975)
Description: Ingmar Bergman's adaptation of Mozart's opera includes comedic elements in its staging and character interactions.
Fact: The film was shot in the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, which is known for its historical significance in opera.


The Opera House (2017)
Description: A modern take on opera, this film follows a group of misfit opera singers who must save their opera house through a series of comedic performances.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories from opera houses around the world, showcasing the behind-the-scenes drama and humor.


The Opera Singer (1932)
Description: A light-hearted tale of an opera singer who gets mistaken for a famous diva, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings.
Fact: This film was one of the first to feature opera music in a comedic context, paving the way for future opera comedies.
