“He gets mad because he can’t read.” —Chicolini
Today’s quick review: Duck Soup. At the urging of Gloria Teasdale (Margaret Dumont), political maverick Rufus T. Firefly (Groucho Marx) takes the reins of Freedonia, a country desparately in need of leadership. Firefly sets about fixing Freedonia with the help of his secretary, Bob (Zeppo Marx), and his advisors, Chicolini (Chico Marx) and Pinky (Harpo Marx). Meanwhile, Ambassador Trentino (Louis Calhern) of Sylvania attempts to goad Freedonia into a war.
Duck Soup is a classic comedy from the Marx Brothers. Set in the fictional quasi-European nation of Freedonia, the film is a farcical take on the affairs of state. As with most Marx Brothers movies, Duck Soup is an excuse to show off the Brothers’ comedic talents. Groucho’s wordplay and patter, Harpo and Chico’s slapstick routines, and the twin foils of Margaret Dumont and Louis Calhern are enough to make it an energetic watch that’s packed with comedy.
Duck Soup features some of the Marx Brothers’ best material. Groucho slips into his usual persona as Rufus T. Firefly, a fast-talking leader who is an unlikely savior for a beleaguered nation. Harpo and Chico are in fine form, peppering the film with slapstick digressions that are among their finest work. The only real losses are a story that’s useful jokes but doesn’t really go anywhere and a lack of musical solos for Harpo and Chico.
Duck Soup is a must-see for fans of the Marx Brothers, slapstick, or classic comedy in general. It is a light, enthusiastic movie that’s full of witty humor and sheer absurdity. Those who dislike the Brothers’ style should give it a pass. For a Marx Brothers comedy of a similar caliber, try Animal Crackers or A Night at the Opera. For darker political satire, try Dr. Strangelove.
7.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for talented comedians with excellent material.