As has been noted, this one-reel short does indeed have an impressive pedigree from the perspective of Laurel and Hardy fans -- directed by Laurel, starring their perpetual tormentor James Finlayson, and featuring Hardy. However, on this occasion the talented group produced what was really only a throwaway -- a pleasant and likable throwaway, but still a throwaway. Most of the jokes center around the situation that Finlayson is a new groom who just doesn't look up to stuff for his bride's low-class family. Not an Earth-shaking scenario but it works well, with some fun business involving Fin's toupee and a curious 1920s representation of a snotty, gum-chewing teenage girl.
While I love Finlayson's support in the films of Laurel and Hardy, Charley Chase, and other Hal Roach Studios stars, I don;t really think he had what it takes to be a star on his own. He tends to rely a little too much on mugging and freezing his features into an astonished or disapproving "funny face." "'Babe' Hardy," as he is credited, is good in a small role as the uncouth ex-boyfriend. He had a lot of versatility and while he often played "the heavy" during his solo days could slip into almost any type of role.
In all, a fun and enjoyable nine minutes, but nothing to make it stand out too much.
While I love Finlayson's support in the films of Laurel and Hardy, Charley Chase, and other Hal Roach Studios stars, I don;t really think he had what it takes to be a star on his own. He tends to rely a little too much on mugging and freezing his features into an astonished or disapproving "funny face." "'Babe' Hardy," as he is credited, is good in a small role as the uncouth ex-boyfriend. He had a lot of versatility and while he often played "the heavy" during his solo days could slip into almost any type of role.
In all, a fun and enjoyable nine minutes, but nothing to make it stand out too much.