Verdict:Leave 'Em Laughing is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 8.0/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Drama, TV Movie genre.
Answer: Yes, Leave 'Em Laughing is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences. Bottom Line: Highly recommended!
Last updated: January 9, 2026
Released in 1981, Leave 'Em Laughing enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Real-life clown Jack Thum, along with his devoted wife, Shirlee, cared for dozens of homeless children — 37 of them over the years — in the Chicago area, all of whom come back to visit when they discover he's terminally ill. Under the direction of Jackie Cooper, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Mickey Rooney, Anne Jackson, Allen Garfield. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
From a technical standpoint, Leave 'Em Laughing offers a visually stunning presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
As of January 2026, Leave 'Em Laughing is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
With an audience rating of 8/10, the reception has been acclaimed. For fans of Drama, TV Movie, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 8/10, and global collection metrics, Leave 'Em Laughing stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1981 cinematic year.
Leave 'Em Laughing is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 8/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, TV Movie movies.
Yes, Leave 'Em Laughing is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, TV Movie cinema.
Leave 'Em Laughing is a Drama, TV Movie movie that Real-life clown Jack Thum, along with his devoted wife, Shirlee, cared for dozens of homeless children — 37 of them over the years — in the Chicago ar...
