Hillbilly Blitzkrieg

Hillbilly Blitzkrieg is a 1942 comic war film directed by Joseph H. Lewis, and starring an eclectic mix of comedic talents which include Bud Duncan, Edgar Kennedy, and Cliff Nazarro. The movie showcases the standard genre tropes of comedy mixed with wartime propaganda, offering a lighter spin on the gloomy specter of war sweeping the globe at the time. The movie is an installment of the well-loved "Buster & Tige" series where Buster (Bud Duncan) and Tige (Edgar Kennedy) are entangled in hilarious predicaments that result in slapstick humor and clever interactions.

Bud Duncan shines in his role as Buster, the hillbilly turned accidental hero. With his characteristic simple-mindedness, indefatigable optimism, and unassuming charm, Buster undeniably becomes the heart of the movie. Arriving in Nazi-dominated Europe relatively clueless as to the raging conflict, he finds himself embroiled in a complex plot that is beyond his understanding. However, this does not deter him from stumbling headfirst into the comedy of errors that rapidly evolves.

Edgar Kennedy, in the role of Tige, offers an interesting contrast to Buster, being the voice of caution and wisdom, trying to avoid a blitzkrieg of trouble that seems to pursue them in the course of the film. Kennedy's brilliant acting skills are on full display as he depicts Tige's often exasperated reactions to Buster's cluelessness, generating a fair share of comic scenes.

Cliff Nazarro shines as a dual-voiced ventriloquist who shares the spotlight with Buster and Tige, further accentuating the movie's comedic slant. His unique speech sound, often shifting gears between normal and double talk, adds an additional layer of humor to the movie.

The plot, chockfull of amusing episodes and farcical situations, follows our main characters as they're unwittingly drawn into a Nazi plan to impede the American war effort, simply because they misinterpret Buster's unwitting messiness for secret coded messages. The story development is boosted by humorous plot twists and beguiling caricatures of WWII personalities, making it a light-hearted watch despite its wartime setting.

The director graces the movie with scenes that smoothly transition from one comedic scenario to the next, thus ensuring a constant stream of hilarity that will resonate with the audience and keep them entertained. From Buster's clumsiness being mistaken for spy signals, Tige's futile attempts to steer clear of trouble, to Nazarro's tongue-twisting double talk, the film is an eccentric roller coaster designed to send you into convulsive fits of laughter.

One of the strengths of Hillbilly Blitzkrieg lies in its unabashed satire of war, turning a grim reality into laughing material. The movie serves as an inherently patriotic performance but does so without completely neglecting its aim to entertain. The political undertones give the comedy a certain depth, making it an interesting watch for audiences interested in wartime film history.

In terms of technical aspects of the film, it boasts excellent cinematography by the talented James S. Brown Jr. The use of quality camera angles and deliberate framing techniques effectively highlights the movie's rapid-fire comedy antics. The character design and wardrobe also deserve special mention as they have done marvellously to lend authenticity to the characters and the wartime era.

The music in the film, featuring comedic sound effects and sentimental wartime melodies, adds another dimension to the story by enhancing the atmosphere of the scenes. It ranges from the gentle strumming of a banjo to rousing renditions of patriotic anthems, spotlighting the diversified tastes of the period.

Even though it has a low-budget feel which was characteristic of many films of the era, Hillbilly Blitzkrieg succeeds in delivering a spirited blend of humor, patriotism, satire, and memorable performances. Its unique blend of slapstick humor and war situation serves as a perfect antidote to less cheerful films of its time.

In summary, Hillbilly Blitzkrieg stands as an eccentric, enjoyable escapade marked by entertaining performances and a farcical depiction of war. It is a must-watch for those interested in the fusion of comedy and war, or those who want to step back in time to experience the unique comedic style of 1940s cinema. It offers a comedic lens through which to view a pivotal time in history, and the performances of Bud Duncan, Edgar Kennedy and Cliff Nazarro are ones not to be missed.