Claude Gillingwater was a bit actor who made his mark playing grouchy old guys--and he played them so well. Because he was so good at these roles, "Gold Dust Gertie" really works well.
When the film begins, you see Gertie (Winnie Lightner) marrying and subsequently divorcing a couple guys. Now, years later, these two guys (played by the popular stage comics, Olsen and Johnson) have just married sisters and are anticipating great lives working for a swim suit company. However, the old guy in charge (Gillingwater) has no idea either was previously married and they are afraid to tell him because he's such a stiff moralistic old coot. However, hiding this prior marriage is a problem since the Gertie the gold-digger comes to work for the same company...and soon she has her sights set on the boss! What's next?
For the most part, this comedy works, although there are a few lulls here and there (such as the chase scene near the end...I HATE most chase scenes) and I HATE Johnson's annoying laugh. Plus, compared to other Olsen-Johnson films (especially "Hellzapoppin"), it's awfully conventional. Still, on balance it is fun and worth your time.
When the film begins, you see Gertie (Winnie Lightner) marrying and subsequently divorcing a couple guys. Now, years later, these two guys (played by the popular stage comics, Olsen and Johnson) have just married sisters and are anticipating great lives working for a swim suit company. However, the old guy in charge (Gillingwater) has no idea either was previously married and they are afraid to tell him because he's such a stiff moralistic old coot. However, hiding this prior marriage is a problem since the Gertie the gold-digger comes to work for the same company...and soon she has her sights set on the boss! What's next?
For the most part, this comedy works, although there are a few lulls here and there (such as the chase scene near the end...I HATE most chase scenes) and I HATE Johnson's annoying laugh. Plus, compared to other Olsen-Johnson films (especially "Hellzapoppin"), it's awfully conventional. Still, on balance it is fun and worth your time.