Never Say Die

"Never Say Die," a classic comedy released in 1939, is a testament to the combined comic brilliance of its lively lead actors: Bob Hope, Martha Raye, and Andy Devine. It showcases their skillful comic timing and sparkly rapport that translates into a light-hearted viewing experience.

In this film, Bob Hope plays the character of John Kidley, a wealthy but health-obsessed man who is led to believe that he has less than a month to live. The cause of this supposed deadly ailment: a medical misdiagnosis after a mix-up of test results led by a bumbling physician. This hilariously distressing premise, wrapped in an array of mix-ups and misunderstandings, paves the way for witty dialogues and a series of comic situations — a signature hallmark of many classic comedies of the era and a breezy tonic that "Never Say Die" so deftly delivers.

Martha Raye, on the other hand, embarks on the role of Mickey Hawkins, a vibrant and endearing young woman who is reluctant to her impending arranged marriage to Henry Munch, entertainingly portrayed by Andy Devine. Munch, an eccentric millionaire with a soda-pop business backdrop, is a character that is simple yet engaging, allowing Devine's comic prowess to resonate.

Hope and Raye's escapades transpire in the beautiful, opulent, and fictional European spa town of Bad Gaswasser. This picturesque setting serves not only as an eye-catching backdrop but also brings together these two protagonists in the most curious of circumstances. What ensues is a comedic rollercoaster, which, while hinged on the premise of mistaken identity and misplaced affections, is the pure nourishment for an engaging comic fodder.

The screenplay, penned by Frank Butler and Don Hartman, wonderfully encapsulates humorous dialogues with a rapid-fire wit that is beautifully delivered by its characters. It grandly showcases and flexes the comic talent of Hope and Raye, who are neatly directed by Elliot Nugent, whose direction ensures that the humor stays fresh, and the narrative is easy-going enough to entertain without straining the intellect.

Bob Hope's gift for comedy shines throughout the film as he stringently adheres to his forte — a unique blend of verbal humor and physical comedy, all wrapped in an endearing vulnerability. His portrayal of Kidley — a hypochondriac millionaire who is initially seen sipping milk and worrying about his 'ailing' health into a man who learns to live, laugh, and love — is a study in comic character development.

Martha Raye showcases her commendable comic talent and timing, establishing her as an equally matched partner in this madcap comedy. Her portrayal of Mickie, a woman who is too smart to fall into the trap of an arranged marriage and too kind to shun a man who she believes is on his death bed, is beautifully textured and rendered.

In supporting roles, Andy Devine, as the expectant groom-to-be, and Gale Sondergaard, as Mickey's snobbish mother, add robust elements to the story, contributing to the fun by bringing their unique comic elements to the table.

“Never Say Die” smartly balances classic comedic formats, including physical gags, witty dialogues, and the indispensable element of surprise. While the story might seem slight, as the plot is almost willfully nonsensical, it's the performances and comic pace that truly shines - making it an enjoyable cinematic serving of the era's comic spontaneity.

On the whole, "Never Say Die" isn't just a testament to the comedic brilliance of the era but also a nostalgic trip to a time when storytelling was simple, humor was uncomplicated, and stellar performances by actors were the prime driving force of cinema. It's a delightful cinematic romp that combines star performances, humor, romance, and a sense of zestful adventure.

This movie, released more than eight decades ago, manages to retain its timeless appeal, and even now continues to delight audiences who appreciate classic comedies, vintage cinema, and the indomitable comic charm of the legendary Bob Hope and the equally talented Martha Raye. It remains a must-watch movie that reminds one to keep laughing, keep living, and most importantly, "Never Say Die."