It's a Joke Son

It's a Joke Son is a political-comedy film from 1947 that serves as a satirical take on American politics of the period. The film features a riveting ensemble cast led by the talented Kenny Delmar alongside Una Merkel and June Lockhart.

The storyline centers on the character of Senator Beauregard Claghorn, brilliantly portrayed by Kenny Delmar. Claghorn is a delightful blend of exaggerated Southern characteristics, replete with a thick accent, resolute traditionalist views, proud proclamations about the superiority of the South, and a propensity for unnecessary political debates. The character, also known as "The Lion of Dixie," first gained popularity on Fred Allen's radio show before making the leap to the silver screen with It's a Joke Son. Delmar's performance brings an irresistible charm to his role, thus solidifying the movie's status as a classic.

Una Merkel steps into the role of Magnolia Claghorn, Beauregard's supportive yet constantly exasperated wife. She employs her comic timing and natural ease with the Southern accent, perfectly complementing Delmar's flamboyant portrayal. The romantic subplot to the film is provided by the character of Mary Lou, the Claghorn's daughter, played by June Lockhart, who is engaged in a budding romance.

The plot unfolds when Senator Claghorn, rather by accident than design, ends up as a candidate for a local political office. His campaign becomes the target of establishment politicians and corrupt businessmen who plot and maneuver to maintain their control over the town's politics. The plot thickens with a hearty mix of underhand politics, slapstick humor, and uproarious confusions that form the crux of the narrative.

The theme of the film, while treated with loads of humor and delightful silliness, also manages to bring to surface the rampant corruption in politics, the influence of business interests on political decisions, and the role of common people in tackling the status quo. Even though the film is positioned as a comedy, it doesn’t shy away from making incisive observations about the system.

In the backdrop is the engaging side-story of young love. June Lockhart, as Mary Lou, brings to the screen an innocent charm, and her romantic entanglements provide a sweet counterpoint to the main plot. Her loving but tumultuous relationship with her father also adds another layer of complexity to the narrative and contributes to many of the comic situations in the film.

The screenplay, penned by Nat Perrin, is rife with comedic elements. The Confederate-championing dialogues of Senator Claghorn provide a perpetual source of hilarity. It is through Perrin's witty dialogue and sharp humor that the film continues to leave audiences in splits to this day. Ben Hardaway and Jack Henley offer additional collaboration to the script, bringing in their own unique comedic touches.

Behind the camera, director Ben Stoloff expertly juggles the many elements of the film, combining comedy, romance and politics into a well-crafted narrative, while the cinematography by Jack MacKenzie adds to the visual appeal of the movie. The film also benefits from a well-rounded supporting cast including Douglas Fowley, Jimmy Lydon, and Matt McHugh who each contribute to making this film stand out in its genre.

Despite its release in 1947, It's a Joke Son continues to resonate with audiences owing to its smart humor. Its satirical perspective, while focused on a specific era and geographic region, transcends its setting to deliver universally relatable humor. It's a Joke Son serves up not only laughs but also an element of social commentary, making it a timeless classic and a must watch.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a movie that combines wit, political satire, and a dash of romance, It's a Joke Son is a perfect choice that continues to charm audiences decades after its release. From the stellar performances of Kenny Delmar, Una Merkel, and June Lockhart, to the skillfully penned and directed screenplay, the film remains a standout in the annals of comedic cinema.