La Cage Aux Folles (DVD, 2001)

This brilliant French farce is as hilarious today as it was when it first was made. Hysterically funny, warm, and still relevant, it's a multi-layered story of love, family, community, prejudice and reconciliation. My favorite character is the butler Jacob (Benny Luke), who is always barefoot and cannot wear shoes because "they make me fall." He manages to steal nearly every scene he's in with his flamboyant pirouetting, outrageous costumes and physical comedy. The French language with English subtitles detracts not at all, because the acting and comedic brilliance of the cast are what makes La Cage aux Folles shine so brightly. The American remake (The Bird Cage), while well-cast and earnestly funny, does not hold a candle to this wonderful, beloved classic. If you need your spirits lifted, this is one movie I'd heartily recommend for some "laugh therapy!"