Whistling in Brooklyn

Whistling in Brooklyn, a 1943 comedy-mystery directed by S. Sylvan Simon, finds the inimitable comic actor Red Skelton reprising his role as Wally Benton, a.k.a. "The Fox," the hapless, crime-solving hero of a popular radio show. It looks like Wally's role extends off the air too, as he is perpetually embroiled in mysteries off-screen that mirror the hijinks of his radio show. His lovely fiancée, Carol Lambert played by the charming Ann Rutherford, supports him in all his misadventures and inadvertently entangles herself too in the midst of the convoluted plots and comical shenanigans.

The film, being the third in the “Whistling” series, starts with Wally and Carol finally set to be married, only to be drawn into another frantic caper when a string of murders in Brooklyn begins to alarm the city. Wally's scripted radio character is reportedly the killer's inspiration, prompting police intervention and pulling Wally into the escalated drama in this bustling borough. The film gives an exciting slice of old New York City life, with pivotal scenes set at Brooklyn's iconic Ebbets Field during a Dodgers game.

Adding to the already brewing tension, Wally winds up being the chief suspect. The hapless radio hero must now use all his cunning, comic wile, and wit to clear his name, catch the real killer, and - amidst all the chaos - find time to marry his sweetheart. Carol stands by Wally, adding her own blend of humour and intelligence to the mix. Jean Rogers complements the ensemble with her performance as Chester Morris, another suspect in the murder case, forming a complex triangle with Wally and Carol, intensifying the thrilling element present throughout the film.

Skelton's Wally Benton character shines, embodying the silly yet resourceful detective genre, neatly blending it with his distinctive physical comedy that made him a household name. His fast-paced banter with Ann Rutherford's Carol drives the comedic aspect of the film, and their on-screen chemistry keeps viewers entertained throughout. Rutherford's Carol is confident, level-headed, offering the perfect foil to Skelton's slapstick silliness. Her role significantly contributes to the film's central tension, ensuring it isn't solely a comedy but a well-rounded mixture of intrigue, romance, and humor.

While the “Whistling” series has been classified as comedy, Whistling in Brooklyn carries the weight of being a 'screwball mystery' as well. The horror aspect paired with the typical absurdity of a Skelton comedy breeds a new kind of narrative that subverts the typical comedic film style of the era.

Whistling in Brooklyn also exposes Skelton's knack for impersonations. His impersonation of a baseball player is legendary as he subtly references Dodgers' pitcher Hugh Casey, imparting an undeniable sense of charm to his character. It is in these moments that the humorous genius of Red Skelton truly surfaces, further proving why he was one of the most beloved comedians of the period.

Director S. Sylvan Simon, known for his adept work in the comedy genre, skillfully joggles the comedic, romantic, and thrilling elements. The director's attention to detail and dedication to comic timing take the film to the next level, ensuring an engaging experience for audiences. Shot in black-and-white, the film captures the essence of 1940s comedy and mystery films while sketching a vivid picture of Brooklyn's cityscape during that time.

In conclusion, Whistling in Brooklyn is a madcap ride of laughter, suspense, and romance that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, slapstick hilarity, and a dash of thrilling elements, this third installment in the “Whistling” series proves that Red Skelton, an ingenious comedian, could flawlessly dip into other genres. If you have a soft spot for vintage Hollywood's combination of comedy and mystery, this film is a must-watch.