Speak Easily

Speak Easily is a sterling exemplification of the glistening golden era of comedy, released in 1932. The poignant film successfully amalgamates humor, romance, and classical theatre, presenting a heartwarming and joyful storyline perfect for family entertainment. Featuring sterling performances from notable names in the comic world, Buster Keaton and Jimmy Durante, with the mesmerizing Ruth Selwyn adding the needed charisma to the ensemble, the medium-paced melodrama takes you through a thrilling, humorous journey.

Speak Easily opens up with Professor Post, portrayed brilliantly by the legendary silent film star Buster Keaton, an introverted, scholarly, and naive man who has spent his entire life immersed in books and education but is bereft of any real-world experiences or knowledge. The reclusive professor, who was raised and educated in a secluded academic environment, is suddenly led to believe that he has come into a huge fortune, which completely turns his life around.

Keaton's Professor Post then embarks on an adventure to experience life beyond books and academia, venturing out into a world he is unfamiliar with. His initiative takes him inadvertently to a vaudeville show in the process where he's enthralled by the spectacle and the performances. This leads to an eccentric plunge in the direction of showbiz, resulting in a series of amusing and entertaining occurrences.

Speak Easily then introduces us to Jimmy Durante as James, the hard-pressed impresario and manager of the struggling show. He's known for adding layers of humor in the most mundane of circumstances. Ruth Selwyn as Pansy Peets, a talented and charming dancer from the show, complements the eccentric duo perfectly, adding an element of romance, charm, and glamour to the narrative.

The unique premise of Speak Easily allows Buster Keaton to bring his physical comedy to the peak of perfection. The slapstick and physical comedy, combined with the highbrow verbal humor, will keep you entertained throughout the film. Keaton's exceptional command over his comic timing and little gestures leave you in splits. Meanwhile, Durante's classic wise-guy character with witty punchlines and infectious energy matches perfectly with Keaton's eccentric persona.

Ruth Selwyn, with her enchanting screen presence and elegant dance moves, not only catches the eye of our protagonist but also captivates the audience. Her interaction with Keaton and Durante plays a pivotal role in building up the comic crescendo. The tough yet gentle love triangle that emerges amongst these three leads serves as a solid pillar for the engaging narrative.

Directed skillfully by Edward Sedgwick, Speak Easily portrays an array of emotions, from humor to compassion, love, and camaraderie. The dialogue delivery, timing, and physical humor seamlessly blend with the narrative. They are well backed by good screenplay and cinematography that holds viewers' interest until the end. The movie is a perfect tribute to the vaudeville tradition, avec its several dance numbers and theatre performances which add a colorful backdrop to this comedy classic.

The production's music bridges the era's charming melody and the vibrant vibrancy of vaudeville, playing a significant role in the overall aesthetics of the film. With memorable tracks like "The Chant of the Jungle" and "My Silent Love," the film excels in creating an authentic 1930s atmosphere.

All in all, Speak Easily is a comedy gem from the early 1930s. It's an exquisite blend of humor, romance, and theater featuring striking performances from stars who undisputedly were amongst the best in the business. An entertaining spectacle that keeps you engaged with its delightful plot, catchy music, and engaging performances, it surely must be on the watchlist of every old school comedy enthusiast. This warm, witty depiction of a hard-pressed theatre company makes it the perfect choice when you're in the mood for something light-hearted and entertaining.