Review of A Night at the Opera (1935) by Gopher It! — 20 May 2008

Otis B. Driftwood: That woman? Do you know why I sat with her? Because she reminded me of you.

Mrs. Claypool: Really?

Otis B. Driftwood: Of course, that's why I'm sitting here with you. Because you remind me of you. Your eyes, your throat, your lips! Everything about you reminds me of you. Except you. How do you account for that? If she figures that one out, she's good.

The Marx Brothers are easily some of the most entertaining performers of all time. The combination of Groucho's puns, Chico's conning and piano playing, and Harpo's physical comedy works in any situation.

Here, there is a slight change from the standard Marx brother movie. Its their first MGM picture, lacks Zepo, has more of a plot, and takes to having the Marx's play against the more villainous characters, as opposed to anyone in their path. Still, it is very funny and also features a number of very good musical interludes.

The basic plot revolves around the Marx's being involved with an opera company, and their attempts to bring in a talented opera duo to America and get them the recognition they deserve...through their own means. Hilarity ensues.

The humor is a combination of styles, of course, very old fashioned, but that does not make it any less funny if you like the humor used.

This is a very funny movie when the Marx's are up front and center, doing what they do best.

Henderson: You live here all alone?

Otis B. Driftwood: Yes. Just me and my memories. I'm practically a hermit.

Henderson: Oh. A hermit. I notice the table's set for four.

Otis B. Driftwood: That's nothing - my alarm clock is set for eight. That doesn't prove a thing.