Time for Levity

A Welcome New Look at the films of Laurel and Hardy

    I well remember one Christmas when I received The Films of Laurel and Hardy by William K. Everson. I guess I was about 14 at the time. By then I was a seasoned fan of the duo who beguiled me during childhood when their comedies were constantly shown on British television. Everson's book was originally published years before in the 1960s, and was widely considered a pioneering work. It is with enthusiasm then that I now welcome the arrival of The Laurel and Hardy Films (Bear Manor Media) by the distinguished film historian James L. Neibaur.

    Although he is an incredibly prolific author of more than 35 books, Neibaur regards this as his most important so far. He has written extensively about screen comedy, and is no stranger to Laurel & Hardy, having co-authored Stan Without Ollie with Ted Okuda. He brings acuity and a lifetime of experience to bear to illuminate the ouevre of the greatest double act of all time. 

    Theirs was the comedy of failure, frustration and hope against the odds; it spoke for the human condition. Timeless and universal, their humour has inspired not only countless comedians, but also a Nobel literature laureate. More than anything else they are simply beloved. 

     Here, in a film-by-film guide, the author charts their development from the genesis of their partnership in Duck Soup (1927), their transition from silents to sound films, then from shorts to features. He gives an unusual insight into the way their films were in some cases almost remade for foreign markets. Moreover, he offers a thoughtful reappraisal of their difficult years at Fox in the 1940s, a period that has previously been dismissed by many scholars. The images throughout are a sheer delight. Who can fail to be cheered by the sight of 'the Boys' in their many scrapes. The human essence of their comedy has never faded with the passing years, and they are just as funny today. Hopefully, the book will inspire a whole new generation to discover their magic for themselves. The Laurel and Hardy Films is a timely addition to the extensive canon and is highly recommended for libraries, universities, film fans, and everyone in need of a tonic.

See details here