The Comic

(1969)Directed by Carl Reiner95 min · PGComedy, Drama
A funny new motion picture that tells Hollywood like it was!

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.

Dick Van Dykeas Billy Bright
Michele Leeas Mary Gibson
Mickey Rooneyas Cockeye
Cornel Wildeas Frank Powers
Nina Wayneas Sybil Atlas
Pert Keltonas Mama Bell
Steve Allenas Steve Allen
Barbara Helleras Ginger
Ed Peckas Edwin G. Englehardt
Jeannine Rileyas Lorraine Bell
Gavin MacLeodas 1st Director
Jay Novelloas Miguel
Craig Huebingas Doctor
Paulene Myersas Phoebe
Fritz Feldas Armand
Jerome Cowanas Lawrence
Jeff Donnellas Nurse
Carl Reineras Al Schilling
HDHoward Daytonas Ketchup Man
Maurice Dallimoreas Lord Faversham
Mantan Morelandas Passerby at Billy's Funeral (unbilled)
Frank Adamoas Minor Role (uncredited)
LALillian Adamsas Old Lady (uncredited)