Why We Laugh: Funny Women Poster

Why We Laugh: Funny Women 2013

★ 7.23 votes87 min📅 2013-03-21

"Personal, bold and extremely funny stories from the courageous women of comedy."

Dive into the unfiltered world of female stand-up comedy with *Why We Laugh: Funny Women (2013)*, a revealing documentary directed by Bernard Gourley.

Director: Bernard Gourley

Cast

Joan Rivers
Joan Rivers
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Kathy Griffin
Kathy Griffin
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Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg
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Kathy Najimy
Kathy Najimy
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Lily Tomlin
Lily Tomlin
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Aisha Tyler
Aisha Tyler
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Brett Butler
Brett Butler
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Sandra Bernhard
Sandra Bernhard
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Paula Poundstone
Paula Poundstone
Self
Janeane Garofalo
Janeane Garofalo
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Why We Laugh: Funny Women (2013)* about?

*Why We Laugh* is a documentary that shines a spotlight on the lives and careers of female stand-up comedians, featuring interviews and live footage from some of the most influential voices in comedy. It delves into their struggles, triumphs, and the passion that drives them to succeed in a field historically dominated by men.

Who directed *Why We Laugh: Funny Women*?

The documentary was directed by Bernard Gourley, who brings a keen eye for storytelling to this exploration of female comedy.

Who stars in *Why We Laugh: Funny Women*?

The film features standout performances and interviews with Joan Rivers, Kathy Griffin, Whoopi Goldberg, Kathy Najimy, Lily Tomlin, and Aisha Tyler.

Is *Why We Laugh: Funny Women (2013)* worth watching?

With its sharp focus on themes of resilience and legacy, *Why We Laugh* offers both entertainment and inspiration. While it doesn't have an IMDb rating, its genre as a documentary combined with its stellar cast makes it well worth your time if you love comedy or stories of perseverance.

How long is *Why We Laugh: Funny Women*?

The runtime for *Why We Laugh: Funny Women* is 87 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Why We Laugh: Funny Women (2013) — Behind-the-scenes stories of comedy's boldest female voices

Dive into the unfiltered world of female stand-up comedy with *Why We Laugh: Funny Women (2013)*, a revealing documentary directed by Bernard Gourley. This eye-opening film captures the raw, unapologetic stories of comedy's boldest women, blending intimate interviews with electrifying live performances. Through the lens of today's most iconic comediennes—including Joan Rivers, Kathy Griffin, and Whoopi Goldberg—the documentary explores the fierce dedication, resilience, and sheer passion required to break into and thrive in a male-dominated industry. With humor and honesty, it celebrates the legacy of female comedians who refuse to be silenced, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their journeys from obscurity to stardom.

More than just a retrospective, *Why We Laugh* is a celebration of comedy as a form of empowerment. The film's candid atmosphere and fearless storytelling make it a must-watch for fans of both comedy and cinema. Whether you're here to laugh, learn, or be inspired, this documentary delivers a refreshing perspective on what it truly takes to make it in the world of stand-up—where courage is the first punchline.