The Marx Brothers

Comedy is notorious for not translating well from decade to decade or generation to generation. Often times, comedy that was considered racy when it was released and may have encountered issues getting passed censors or the 20th Century’s Hays Code, are considered much less daunting today. Some Like It Hot, for example, which encountered Hays Code issues when first released in 1959, seems mild by today’s standards. The lines Some Like It Hot crossed have since been surpassed, as sensibilities and tastes have changed over the decades. Some Like It Hot now seems quite tame. While older comedies may still be amusing, they somehow just cease to be hilarious. A notable exception, however, may be the Marx Brothers.

The Marx Brothers films now are as relevant today as they were in the early 1930’s because the object of their humor persists in society, even today. That is, the economic and social divide between High Society and, well … the rest of us. As a result, the Marx Brother’s jokes don’t seem so dated even when you watch them, today. I bet that audiences today will have trouble catching every one of Groucho’s quick humorous quips the first time through. I still catch new funny lines each time I watch Duck Soup.

The high caliber, extremely witty jokes are augmented by, and somewhat contrasted with, the unhinged, slapstick antics of Harpo; as well as, the constant verbal confusion offered by Chico’s surprisingly sly and incessant Street-Wise opportunism.

Groucho Marx is possibly the most influential comedian ever; or, at least the most influential comedian of the last two centuries. Just about every major comedian, since, has named Groucho as a significant influence, and though many have tried to match his genius at wit, timing and double entrendre’; few – if any -actually have.  Most merely wish they could capture Groucho’s quick-witted asides.

The first five Marx Brothers’ films were made for Paramount and are regarded as their classic best; most likely because they were able to sneak more off-color jokes and sexual innuendos past the censors before the 1934 Production Code really kicked-in. Their later films, however, are still notable. First, fans of comedy will still have the pleasure of watching these great comedy minds, even if tamed by censorship to a slightly less raucous level. And second, films like Room Service and Love Happy offer some of the earliest on-screen performances by two young starlets who would rise to the HIGHEST levels of Hollywood Fame and stardom just a few years later – Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe, respectively. So don’t think for a second the Marx Brothers didn’t appreciate Talent. They were, in many ways, very forward thinkers intent on stretching the bounds of “acceptable” comedy – another innovation still embraced by today’s comics.

In short, the Marx Brothers films can be enjoyed for everything they still are … not merely by comedy buffs, but by anyone who appreciates quick wit, well-timed repartee, sophomoric jokes, and funny movies in general. Unless, of course you’re a cyber-attacking dictator without any sense of humor like … you get the idea.

from Jeff Fishman’s Introduction to the Entertainment Industry http://ift.tt/1GveCz5
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Kingsman: The Secret Service

I was fortunate enough to be invited to the very first pre-premiere screening of ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ in Los Angeles, only a few days ago. This Movie is a delight, and I highly suggest that you see it once it is released in your area. ‘Kingsman’ hits theaters in February, and you will likely thank me for recommending this Action ride in the vein of a very updated and relevant ‘Batman Begins’ meets ‘James Bond’ meets ‘Iron Man’.

Updated, too, is Director Matthew Vaughn’s modern storytelling that portrays a more Prince William and Princess Kate British Aristocracy, focusing upon the actual worth of one’s deeds and not merely your family’s high social status or amassed wealth. (No disrespect to her Majesty, by the way. I remain a fan of the Queen of England. If you do some research into her life, you’ll find that she’s been a Royal Action Heroine since the 1930s, at least.)

Writer Jane Goldman is able to tell her story about the Movie’s hero, Eggsy, who must learn to stand up and take responsibility instead of simply lashing out in violence because it’s easier or a more rapid solution, without boring her audience. Instead of being a cliché, Goldman’s story sends the perfect message that one is able to stand up for themself when they learn to stand up for a good cause, their friends and their family. (Something France and the world are experiencing, right now, in the wake of indefensible Terrorist violence.) Goldman gets this message across while never interfering with the essence of her Action storytelling.

Without slowing the pace or interrupting Mark Millar, Dave Gibbons and Goldman’s good story, Vaughn is able to tackle some truly troubling present-day issues like domestic violence and discerning real ‘Save the Planet’, from ‘Save the Planet for Profit’ hucksters.

While the movie is sexy … without being salacious … there is NO sexism. Women beat the snot out of men and work side-by-side them without having to expose body parts as an indication of their worth. I’m recommending the Movie to my Nieces. Yeah, it’s that good and my nieces are that strong.

But there is no want for ACTION. The 129 minutes of movie flies by and feels like 90, as Vaughn presents a very positive role model for both men and women. Make no mistake: this is an Action Movie! But unlike some action Movies that inspire audiences to leave the theater picking fights when they emulate the movie’s characters, I actually experienced noticeably courteous and gentlemanly behavior from the exiting ‘Kingsman’ audience. I have to admit being a little taken aback by it; but in a very uplifting way.

Finally, don’t walk out on the credits. Imbedded within the Final Credits are additional scenes that add to, rather than merely prolong, the ending.

from Jeff Fishman’s Introduction to the Entertainment Industry http://ift.tt/1KWqSZb
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