French & Saunders: Hilarious Quotes That Still Make Us Laugh

Alright, comedy lovers, get ready to dive headfirst into the wonderfully wacky world of French & Saunders! If you're a fan of British comedy, chances are you've spent countless hours chuckling at the genius of Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders. These two are comedy royalty, and their sketches, characters, and, of course, their unforgettable quotes have left an indelible mark on the world of humor. Today, we're taking a stroll down memory lane, highlighting some of the most side-splitting French & Saunders quotes that continue to make us laugh out loud, decades after their initial broadcast. So, grab your cuppa, settle in, and prepare for a healthy dose of laughter!

The Dynamic Duo: Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders

Before we jump into the quotes, let's give a quick shout-out to the masterminds behind the mirth. Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are not just comedians; they're comedic institutions. Their chemistry is undeniable, their timing impeccable, and their ability to create memorable characters is second to none. They've been entertaining us since the early 1980s, first as part of the Comic Strip and later with their own self-titled sketch show, French & Saunders. Their work is characterized by a blend of sharp wit, clever parodies, and a healthy dose of silliness. They've fearlessly poked fun at everything from popular culture and celebrities to everyday life, always with a twinkle in their eyes and a mischievous glint in their delivery. They're also not afraid to get down and dirty, often transforming themselves into utterly unrecognizable characters with the help of some truly amazing (and often unflattering) makeup and costumes. Their impact on comedy is undeniable, influencing countless comedians and leaving a legacy that continues to inspire. They've proven that comedy can be smart, silly, and utterly unforgettable all at once. So, thank you, Dawn and Jennifer, for all the laughter!

Memorable Quotes

• "I'm not sure I want to be here." (From a sketch where Dawn French plays a reluctant participant in a makeover)
• "Oh, shut up." (A classic retort used by many of their characters)
• "It's alright, darling. Just think of it as a new experience." (Dawn French, parodying a self-help guru)

Parody Power: French & Saunders' Iconic Spoofs

One of the hallmarks of French & Saunders' brilliance is their incredible ability to parody popular culture. From movies and music videos to TV shows and celebrities, nothing was safe from their comedic touch. Their parodies were often spot-on, capturing the essence of the original while adding their unique comedic flair. They didn't just mimic; they elevated the material, turning it into something entirely new and hilarious. These parodies were not just funny; they were often insightful, offering a witty commentary on the subject matter. They showed a deep understanding of the source material, allowing them to play with it in ways that were both respectful and incredibly funny. Their spoofs are still quoted and referenced today, testament to their enduring comedic genius. Let's take a look at a few of their most iconic parodies and some of the quotes that made them so memorable.

The Sound of Music

Their parody of The Sound of Music is a masterpiece of comedic timing and character work. Dawn French, playing the nun-turned-governess Maria, is particularly brilliant. She is constantly battling her own clumsiness, struggling with her guitar, and completely misunderstanding the Von Trapp family's needs. Jennifer Saunders as Baroness Elsa Schraeder, brings a dry, sarcastic wit to the role, making her an excellent comedic foil. Here are a few quotable moments:

• Maria: "I'm leaving the abbey!" Mother Superior: "Oh, go on then." Maria: "Thank you." (Perfectly captures the quick exchange)
• Maria: "Do-re-mi... it's all about me!" (A hilariously self-centered take on the original song)
• Baroness Schraeder: "Oh, he's such a bore!" (Said with incredible disdain)

Titanic

Their take on the blockbuster Titanic is another gem, filled with slapstick, witty dialogue, and, of course, a healthy dose of chaos. The sheer audacity of their take, with Dawn French as the glamorous Rose and Jennifer Saunders as the hapless Jack, is what makes this spoof so brilliant. They perfectly capture the melodrama of the film while adding their own unique brand of silliness. The sketch ends in a hilarious twist, proving that nothing is sacred in the world of French & Saunders.

• Rose (Dawn French): "I'll never let go!" Jack (Jennifer Saunders): "Get off me!" (The hilarious reversal of the famous scene)
• Rose (Dawn French): "I want to go back to my cabin!" (Imploring, desperate, and very funny)

Abba

Their Abba parody isn't just a parody; it's a full-blown musical spectacular. The girls transformed into the iconic Swedish pop group, dressed in outrageous costumes, and delivering a series of hilarious impressions. They nailed the vocals, the dance moves, and the over-the-top drama that Abba was known for. The sheer commitment to the bit is what makes this sketch so unforgettable. Here are some of the quotes:

• "Money, money, money, must be funny in a rich man's world." (The girls singing in their best Swedish accents)
• "Take a chance on me!" (A hilarious delivery of the classic song)

Beyond the Parodies: French & Saunders' Original Characters

While their parodies were legendary, French & Saunders were also masters of creating original characters that became instant classics. These characters were often based on familiar archetypes but given a unique comedic twist. Whether it was the bickering housewives, the clueless celebrities, or the self-absorbed fashionistas, each character was brought to life with such energy and precision that they felt incredibly real. Their original characters allowed them to explore a wide range of comedic styles, from slapstick and physical comedy to witty dialogue and observational humor. These characters were often a reflection of the times, offering a satirical commentary on society, culture, and the human condition. They could make you laugh, make you think, and sometimes even make you cringe. They were a reminder that humor can be found in the most unexpected places. Let's take a look at some of the original characters and quotes that defined French & Saunders.

The Bicker Sisters

• Sister 1: "I'm going to scream!" Sister 2: "Oh, do." (The exasperated response of one sister to another's whining)

The Fashionistas

• "Oh, darling, you look... well, you look." (A cutting remark disguised as a compliment)
• "I just can't!" (Said with dramatic flair about everything)

The Enduring Legacy of French & Saunders

French & Saunders have left an enduring legacy on the world of comedy. Their sketches are still beloved, their characters are iconic, and their quotes are quotable. They proved that comedy could be both smart and silly. They showed that laughter is a powerful force, capable of bringing people together and making them forget their troubles. Their influence can be seen in the work of countless comedians who followed, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of humorists. Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are, without a doubt, two of the funniest women in the world, and their work will continue to make us laugh for years to come. So, next time you need a good laugh, revisit the world of French & Saunders. You won't be disappointed!

Why French & Saunders Still Matters

Their impact extends far beyond individual sketches. They've inspired a generation of female comedians, proving that women could be just as funny, if not funnier, than their male counterparts. They paved the way for other female comedy duos and groups. They showed that comedy could be intelligent and socially conscious. They weren't afraid to tackle serious issues while still making us laugh. Their influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary comedians, and their legacy continues to inspire. In a world that often takes itself too seriously, French & Saunders remind us of the importance of laughter, silliness, and the joy of simply being entertained.

The Enduring Appeal of Their Humor

• Their sketches are timeless, appealing to audiences of all ages.
• Their writing is sharp, witty, and always on point.
• Their performances are energetic and incredibly funny.
• Their characters are relatable, even when they're over-the-top.
• They're not afraid to be silly, which makes their humor all the more infectious.

So, there you have it, a celebration of French & Saunders and their hilarious quotes. Go forth, rewatch their sketches, and keep laughing!