Jerry Lewis was the son of performers, and had debuted in comedy acts with them at the tender age of five. Dean Martin, on the other hand -- born Dino Paul Crocetti -- started his nightclub act after working as a prize-fighter.

By the time both men met, they had been doing their individual acts long enough to be called professionals. The one thing that eluded both, however, was mainstream success. When their first appearance together was a massive hit for the nightclub that hired them, the move to radio, and eventually the big screen, was inevitable.

The pair finally called it quits after 16 movies together. By then, their names in the comic pantheon had long been secured.

Take a look at any of their films to find out what real comic timing is all about.

In the picture: (from left) Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Jerry Lewis

Photograph: MDA/Getty Images

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