Izzy & Moe

Izzy & Moe is an American made-for-television drama from 1985, which deploys a standout comedic duo to navigate the tumultuous Prohibition era. Starring Jackie Gleason as Izzy Einstein and Art Carney as Moe Smith, together they rekindle the magic of their iconic "The Honeymooners" dynamic in this unlikely story of friendship, law enforcement, and the audacious world of bootlegging.

The film is a period-specific comedy based on the true lives of Izzy Einstein and Moe Smith, a pair of real-life Prohibition agents who became folk heroes during the 1920s for their creative and innovative methods of capturing bootleggers. It's a real-life "buddy cop" drama, the story of two unlikely (and somewhat unconventional) heroes who came out of retirement to navigate the underground world of illegal alcohol trading.

The narrative begins when Izzy and Moe, two retired vaudeville performers, find themselves missing the thrill of the limelight. When Prohibition comes into effect, the pair seizes the chance for excitement and purpose, presenting themselves as federal enforcement agents in New York City. Much to their surprise, they're hired and soon enough, the dynamic duo is plunged into the seedy underworld of speakeasies and bootlegging operations.

Gleason portrays Izzy Einstein with all the boisterous charisma we'd expect, a natural-born performer who's always going for the laugh. Art Carney's Moe Smith shares Izzy's passion for performance but is a bit more skeptical than his daring friend. Nevertheless, Moe follows Izzy into this wild new adventure, largely out of their shared loyalty and the prospect of excitement in an otherwise predictable life.

The film gracefully straddles the line between drama and comedy. It captures the excitement, danger, and absurdity of the Prohibition era while maintaining a focus on the unique friendship at its core. Deftly directed by Jackie Cooper, the film weaves its central narrative around the relationships of the characters.

Izzy & Moe employs an abundance of period-specific detail, immersing audiences in the visualized world of 1920s America, from the fashion and set designs to the language and behaviors of the characters. It also examines the prevalent social issues of the era, including the tension between federal mandates and public opinion regarding the prohibition of alcohol.

Stealing illicit alcohol from a speakeasy requires wits, courage, and a healthy dose of humor, and Izzy & Moe lean into these requirements with gusto. The movie’s comedy comes from the inventive and often ridiculous disguises the pair don, from pickle vendors to rabbis, funeral directors to musicians. Their outlandish ploys and quick thinking humorously belie the very real risks they undertake daily.

The performances are the heart and soul of the film. Gleason and Carney, both gifted comedic performers, bring the same chemistry to their roles as the former vaudevillians-turned-lawmen, as they did in their previous "Honeymooners" guise. Cynthia Harris also deserves a special mention for her supporting role, adding a delightful touch as the speakeasy owner and sparking off Gleason and Carney with aplomb.

Izzy & Moe is more than just another Prohibition era film. It’s a vibrant piece with a unique perspective on a pivotal time in American history. Poignant moments of friendship and camaraderie underscore the humor and surreal nature of their job. The film ends up being a tribute to friendship and the lengths to which people will go when they truly believe in their cause.

In conclusion, Izzy & Moe effortlessly marries the comic genius of Gleason and Carney with a fascinating historical period, resulting in an enjoyable film that's equal parts entertaining and enlightening. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained by this heartwarming yet exciting tale of camaraderie, conviction, and the art of disguise. Izzy & Moe will have you laughing, learning, and – like its eponymous pair – always coming back for more.