Copyright 18 July 1934 by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Corp. U.S. release: 21 July 1934. A Hal Roach "Laurel and Hardy" comedy. 2 reels.
SYNOPSIS: High living has given Oliver a bad case of gout. Ordered by Dr Billy Gilbert to take a holiday in the mountains and drink plenty of water, Oliver obliges. Unfortunately the well water is well and truly tainted with moonshine liquor.
NOTES: Laurel and Hardy two-reelers were the most popular short subjects in the world from 1927 through 1935. This entry was so well received, it inspired a sequel: Tit for Tat.
VIEWERS' GUIDE: The 2012 British censor has classified this one as not suitable for children. We are inclined to agree.
COMMENT: Starts off brightly enough with some amusing quips and non-sequiturs, plus clever bits of well-timed slapstick. Unfortunately, once Charlie Hall returns, the farce degenerates into typical L&H demeaning violence.
Aside from a long tracking shot on location with Laurel and gouty Hardy in their car and trailer, this one has limited directorial opportunities, though the director does keep his camera firmly focused on his stars (which after all is what the fans have paid for).
NOTES: Laurel and Hardy two-reelers were the most popular short subjects in the world from 1927 through 1935. This entry was so well received, it inspired a sequel: Tit for Tat.
VIEWERS' GUIDE: The 2012 British censor has classified this one as not suitable for children. We are inclined to agree.
COMMENT: Starts off brightly enough with some amusing quips and non-sequiturs, plus clever bits of well-timed slapstick. Unfortunately, once Charlie Hall returns, the farce degenerates into typical L&H demeaning violence.
Aside from a long tracking shot on location with Laurel and gouty Hardy in their car and trailer, this one has limited directorial opportunities, though the director does keep his camera firmly focused on his stars (which after all is what the fans have paid for).