Chapter 1
From the streets of New York to the stage
Chapter 2
The Paramount era and anarchic comedy
Chapter 3
The MGM years and structured blockbusters
Chapter 4
The unique personas and lasting legacy
YOUR GOAL
Master of The Marx Brothers story
Ch 2 · The Paramount era and anarchic comedy
schopenhauer Marx Brothers' Paramount Comedies
Banned by Benito, / absolute riot, / Paramount's era was never quite quiet!
schopenhauer Released in 1933, "Duck Soup" is widely considered one of the greatest political satires in film history.
schopenhauer Actress Margaret Dumont served as the ultimate straight woman, playing the wealthy, dignified target of Groucho's insults.
BETA
schopenhauer Match the zany movie quotes to the right brother to master Marx Brothers trivia.
Fun Fact
Duck Soup's ban: Italian dictator Benito Mussolini banned "Duck Soup" in Italy because he felt the film was a direct, insulting parody of his regime.
Glossary
anarchic (adjective)
Denoting a state of disorder or a total lack of controlling rules and authority. The Marx Brothers used this rebellious style in their five Paramount films released from 1929 to 1933.
Denoting a state of disorder or a total lack of controlling rules and authority. The Marx Brothers used this rebellious style in their five Paramount films released from 1929 to 1933.
Gossip
If you had to run a fictional country, which brother would you hire as advisor?
Quiz
Which 1933 Marx Brothers film is a famous political satire about the fictional country of Freedonia?
Quiz
Who played the wealthy, aristocratic lady who was frequently the target of Groucho's jokes?
Quiz
What character name did Groucho Marx play in the 1930 comedy film "Animal Crackers"?
Quiz
In "Horse Feathers" (1932), Groucho plays the president of what kind of institution?
Quiz
Which director, known for his work with Laurel and Hardy, directed "Duck Soup"?
Quiz
Why did the Marx Brothers leave Paramount Pictures after the release of "Duck Soup"?
Quiz
Which Marx Brothers film features the iconic "mirror scene" where Harpo mimics Groucho?