The Flying Deuces (1939)

The Flying Deuces Poster

Ollie is in love with a woman. When he discovers that she is already married, he tries to kill himself. Of course, the suicide is avoided and the boys join the Foreign Legion to get away from their troubles. Finally, they are arrested for trying to desert the Legion and to escape the firing squad by stealing a plane.

Summary of "The Flying Deuces"
"The Flying Deuces" is a traditional comedy movie released in 1939, starring the popular comic duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, understood collectively as Laurel and Hardy. The film, directed by A. Edward Sutherland, unfolds as a series of misadventures and slapstick funny minutes while dealing with styles of relationship, commitment, and a comical take on foreign legion life. Although not as famous as a few of their earlier works, "The Flying Deuces" is still valued by fans for the pair's ageless humor and chemistry.

Plot Summary
The storyline of "The Flying Deuces" starts with Hardy falling in love with Georgette, the innkeeper's daughter during a trip to Paris. When she turns down his marital relationship proposal due to her currently being wed, a sad Hardy chooses that life is no longer worth living, and he contemplates suicide. Laurel, in a genuine attempt to keep his good friend from harm, recommends they join the Foreign Legion instead, as it is deemed for helping males forget their troubles and previous loves.

The duo gets and soon discovers that military life is not as attractive or easy as they had pictured. Their escapades in the legion are filled with the normal Laurel and Hardy mix-ups and physical funny. They find themselves battling with the stringent discipline and grueling regimens, however they likewise make an important pal in the form of the Legion Commandant, who takes a special taste to them.

Their efforts to adjust to military life include an amusing effort at learning to fly an airplane, which provides the film its title. Misunderstandings and turmoil take place when Hardy flies the airplane, with Laurel as an unintended guest, resulting in one comical situation after another.

Key Scenes and Performances
One of the most remarkable scenes in "The Flying Deuces" is the duo's effort to desert the legion. This results in a farcical chase, with Laurel and Hardy commandeering a stolen aircraft that eventually crashes into the ocean. Hardy tragically drowns but is humorously reincarnated as a horse, much to the confusion and delight of Laurel.

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy deliver comedic efficiencies that take advantage of their on-screen personalities; Laurel as the childlike, bumbling buddy, and Hardy as the pompous, yet similarly inept partner. The pair's on-screen chemistry is as sharp as ever, with their renowned routines and visual gags supplying much of the movie's humor.

Technical Elements and Music
The technical aspects of "The Flying Deuces" are normal of the age-- modest and studio-bound, with useful results and minimal locations. The production worth reflects the budget constraints of the duration and the rapid shooting schedules B-films often dealt with. Nevertheless, this does not interfere with the general enjoyment, as the focus remains on the comic genius of Laurel and Hardy.

The film includes a lovely musical number, "Shine On, Harvest Moon", carried out by the duo. Their performance is sweet and includes a touch of range to the otherwise physical comedy-driven narrative.

Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, "The Flying Deuces" got a warm reception from audiences and led the way for more comical experiences from the famous pair. It has stood the test of time, staying a delightful representation of early Hollywood funny and the capitivating rapport between two renowned characters.

In summary, "The Flying Deuces" is a wonderful romp with Laurel and Hardy supplying the kind of heartfelt laughs and feel-good entertainment that just a traditional funny from Hollywood's golden age can provide. It is a testament to the duo's sustaining tradition and their capability to bring delight to audiences for generations.

Top Cast

  • Stan Laurel (small)
    Stan Laurel
    Stan
  • Oliver Hardy (small)
    Oliver Hardy
    Ollie
  • Jean Parker (small)
    Jean Parker
    Georgette
  • Reginald Gardiner (small)
    Reginald Gardiner
    Francois
  • Charles Middleton (small)
    Charles Middleton
    Commandant
  • Jean Del Val (small)
    Jean Del Val
    Sergeant
  • Crane Whitley (small)
    Crane Whitley
    Corporal
  • James Finlayson (small)
    James Finlayson
    Jailor
  • Monica Bannister (small)
    Monica Bannister
    Georgette's Girl Friend
  • Bonnie Bannon
    Georgette's Girl Friend
  • Eddie Borden (small)
    Eddie Borden
    Legionnaire