The Rainmakers

The Rainmakers from 1935 is an American comedy film directed by the impressive Fred Guiol. This comic gem features the charismatic duo of Bert Wheeler and Robert Woolsey, with the radiant Dorothy Lee to complete the cast. The film is a brilliant amalgamation of sterling performances, smart and sassy dialogues, and an engaging plot that isn't just comic escapism but also offers a social message relevant to its time.

Bert Wheeler plays the role of Billy, the happy-go-lucky and innocent younger brother of J. Cornelius 'Corny' Cobb, portrayed by Robert Woolsey. Corny is a smooth-talking elder brother with a penchant for elaborate schemes and quick get-rich plots. The duo has an electric comic chemistry that looms large on the screen, their performances punctuated with impeccably timed delivery and an unmistakable flair for physical comedy. Wheeler and Woolsey's distinct comedic styles perfectly complement each other, making them one of the most loved comic pairs of the early 1930s cinema.

Dorothy Lee adds the romantic dimension to the plot as the charming and vivacious Margie, a superheroine of sorts who is set to save her town from an ongoing drought situation. Lee's unique comic timing, coupled with her magnetic screen presence, gives the film its fair share of romance and whimsical comedy, presenting the audience with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Taking place in the fictional small town of Lima, the plot revolves around a severe water crisis that has left the community desperately hoping for rain. And here comes brother duo Billy and Corny who claim to have invented a 'rainmaking' machine conjuring up a torrential downpour to wash away their problems. What follows is a series of comic misadventures, misunderstandings, and mishaps as the townspeople are more than willing to believe in this seemingly miraculous solution to their woes.

The film explores the greed of power and the constant struggle between the moral principles of honesty and the lure of fame. Observing this drama through the comic lens heightens its relatability and appeal and brings forth the essence of satire and social criticism inherent in the film.

The depiction of the drought-stricken town of Lima is executed well, both in terms of the physical setting and the impact on its inhabitants. This backdrop adds a level of urgency and seriousness to the narrative, highlighting the grave situation those people are in. It also sets up the comic contrast, pitting the harsh reality of a natural disaster against the absurdity of the brothers' rainmaking venture.

There are ample comic situations that rise from the clash between Corny's intellectual scams and Billy's gullible nature, which brings out the best of both performers. The comedic antics are well supported by the script, which weaves in elements of romantic comedy with Margie's character thrown into the mix.

In addition to the wonderful lead trio, the supporting cast, which includes the likes of George Meeker, Berton Churchill, and Del Henderson among others, offers excellent comedy performances that add to the overall flavor of the film. The film's comedy is often accentuated by the situational humor and the animated reactions of the townsfolk to the brothers' far-fetched rainmaking scheme.

Despite its comic slant, The Rainmakers is also a commentary on the exploitation of disadvantaged communities, the gullibility of people in desperate circumstances, and the manipulation of science for personal gain. It tackles the concept of profit over people's desperate need, which makes it more than just another run-of-the-mill comedy flick.

The Rainmakers is a delightful feast of comedy from the '30s, offering an authentic glimpse into the classic era of Hollywood, powered by its rich storyline, brilliant performances, and sharp comic timing. As Wheeler and Woolsey join hands to make the audience laugh, they also make them think and reflect - a tactic that makes this film an everlasting classic. With laughter, love, calamity, and an underlying message, The Rainmakers promises a complete entertainment package for viewers of all generations.