Abbott and Costello made a fortune for Universal in their heyday, and in return Universal didn’t stint on the budgets for their films (well, relatively speaking). They often had lavish production numbers and notable guest stars; this was their first costume film, a knock off of Showboat, complete with a cute old riverboat captain (Captain Sam as opposed to Captain Andy), his actress daughter and singing darkies. Abbott is given a role with a bit more meat here, as a riverboat actor, but he still spends most of his time with Costello. The plot is about a trio of gamblers who take over the riverboat and convert it into a gambling den; it’s feels fresh to have a trio of baddies (two guys and a girl) – though one of the guys turns good (he’s played by Alan Curtis, who was the chauffeur in Buck Privates – he wears a moustache here and is a lot more handsome).It’s a decent enough plot to entertain between the routines, which are strong. The highlight is of course ‘Who’s On First?’ – this is given a full run here, and has ensured this film’s immortality (NB it was a well established routine before Abbott and Costello became movie stars but this was the first time the full routine was captured on camera). It’s not a particularly inspired rendition but it doesn’t have to be, really (was it included to boost box office performances of the films, which were on the slide?). Other highlights include Costello’s tormenting of a thug, a scene where Costello sings, and when he thinks he’s eaten a cat.
This isn’t one of the best Abbott and Costellos but it is enjoyable: a decent plot, period setting, Who’s on First, shenanigans with a bear, a satisfying fight finale which involves a lot of people being conked over the head with wood.
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