I read somewhere that this was one of Jerry Lewis’ favourite films of the Martin-Lewis combination, and you can see why: it’s the tale of one half of a comic act (Dean Martin) who, in 1930, struggles to make it on his own until he accidentally hooks up with a bumbler who becomes effective as a stooge (guess who?). They become a successful act but Martin won’t put Lewis’ name on the bill and seems to have a drinking problem and a big head. Lewis’ child, while moronic, is also angelic, loyal and faithful – and Martin can’t do it without him. What’s more he admits it after doing a solo performance, and gives Jerry a big hug. No wonder Jerry loved it.
There are some really funny bits in this – Lewis impersonating Maurice Chevalier and his own father. Conversely, the Martin-Lewis act on stage isn’t that funny. Most of the drama – all the conflict etc – comes in the last ten minutes, in common with many Martin-Lewis movies. Dean Martin gives a very good performance - he actually doesn't have that many opportunities to be dramatic as you might think but he takes all of them. (This film was his first indication that he had more in him that quips, songs and romance.)
Polly Bergen makes yet another appearance as a love interest, as does Marion Marshall (they often re-used the love interests in Martin-Lewis films). Marshall at least has some comedy to play with but Bergen's is a nothing role when it needed to be something more – a nagger who can’t help loving that man. Eddie Mayehoff from That’s My Boy also appears as Martin’s principled agent (yeah, right).
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