The Gorilla (1939)
About the Movie:
The Gorilla (1939) is a comedy-mystery film directed by Allan Dwan. A blend of horror, comedy, and crime thriller, the film stars the Ritz Brothers as bumbling detectives hired to protect a millionaire, Walter Stevens (played by Lionel Atwill), who has been receiving threats from a mysterious figure known as “The Gorilla.” As the night unfolds, strange occurrences plague the mansion, including the arrival of a real gorilla on the loose. Hilarity ensues as the Ritz Brothers navigate through spooky corridors, secret passages, and strange encounters, all while trying to solve the case. The film is a playful homage to both mystery and horror genres, with comedic twists that make it a fun ride for audiences.
Director:
Allan Dwan
Main Actors:
The Ritz Brothers as Garrity, Harrigan, and Mulligan (The Detectives)
Lionel Atwill as Walter Stevens
Anita Louise as Norma Denby
Bela Lugosi as Peters, the Butler
Patsy Kelly as Kitty
Did you know?
Bela Lugosi, known for his iconic portrayal of Dracula, plays the role of a butler in The Gorilla, adding to the film’s playful, spooky atmosphere. His casting was a clever nod to his horror movie roots, but this time, he gets to show his more humorous side. The film was part of Lugosi’s efforts to break out of his horror typecasting, though he was still often cast in eerie roles like the one in this movie. Interestingly, The Gorilla was based on a 1920s play by Ralph Spence, which had already seen earlier film adaptations.
Impact on Cinema:
The Gorilla is a fun and quirky representation of the blending of comedy and horror, a trend that became more prominent in later decades with films like Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948). The film also showcases the unique talents of the Ritz Brothers, who were known for their slapstick humor and were often compared to the Marx Brothers. While not as well-known today, their comedic timing and zany antics helped shape the landscape of comedy in the 1930s and ‘40s. The film’s mixture of mystery, horror, and comedy influenced later parodies and mashups in these genres.
Cultural Legacy:
Though not considered a major cinematic milestone, The Gorilla has become a cult classic among fans of early horror-comedy. It’s often remembered for its mix of lighthearted humor and spooky elements, making it a fun watch for fans of vintage films. Bela Lugosi’s appearance is a standout for horror aficionados, and the Ritz Brothers’ slapstick routines ensure that the film retains a sense of fun. It’s also one of the films that helped cement the comedic-horror genre as a viable formula, paving the way for later, more successful entries in the genre.
