Like many of their contemporaries, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy could be relied upon time and again for a steady stream of gags, physical comedy, situational humor, and some witty dialogue. While their brand of frivolity was often lighter and gentler than that of, say, Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, or The Three Stooges, in the very least viewers can be assured of consistent amusement, if not big smiles or hearty laughs. This particular picture tends toward the more passively enjoyable side of the duo's oeuvre, eliciting big reactions less frequently by comparison to others, but it's hard to go with Laurel and Hardy at large, and 'Pardon us' remains a splendid classic of the early sound era.
The pacing generally, and comedic timing specifically, feel a bit too relaxed here, reducing the entertainment to some extent. This is in addition to a considerable range in quality between bits; some are fine fun while others pass by indifferently. Moreover, rough spots in the editing can surely be attributed to the fact of different versions having been made or distributed, but nevertheless the breaks are often all too apparent. And as one further consideration, this is a title that makes use of blackface; at least here it's a question not of taking the place of black actors but instead one of having fun at the expense of the characters in question, but the inclusion is unfortunate all the same, and ill-considered. Still, even with all this having been said, the chemistry between the stars remains intact even in their weakest moments, and whether individually or as a set they carry high energy and mirth about them to carry the proceedings.
The writing is swell in the broad strokes, despite imperfections, and likewise James Parrott's direction. The sets look fantastic, and while stunts and practical effects are relatively deemphasized in 'Pardon us' they still come off well, with the climax being a major highlight in this and all other regards. Sound effects instead take greater precedence in this case, and are inarguably a minor joy. When all is said and done this may not stand as tall as some of Laurel and Hardy's other works, though in fairness, this was their first full-length feature. In any event, it's a good time more than not, and can claim a strong finish in the last stretch. I don't think it's something one needs to go out of their way to see, and the faults should be noted, but if you do have the chance to check out 'Pardon us' it's a decent watch and another small gem in the stars' crown.
The pacing generally, and comedic timing specifically, feel a bit too relaxed here, reducing the entertainment to some extent. This is in addition to a considerable range in quality between bits; some are fine fun while others pass by indifferently. Moreover, rough spots in the editing can surely be attributed to the fact of different versions having been made or distributed, but nevertheless the breaks are often all too apparent. And as one further consideration, this is a title that makes use of blackface; at least here it's a question not of taking the place of black actors but instead one of having fun at the expense of the characters in question, but the inclusion is unfortunate all the same, and ill-considered. Still, even with all this having been said, the chemistry between the stars remains intact even in their weakest moments, and whether individually or as a set they carry high energy and mirth about them to carry the proceedings.
The writing is swell in the broad strokes, despite imperfections, and likewise James Parrott's direction. The sets look fantastic, and while stunts and practical effects are relatively deemphasized in 'Pardon us' they still come off well, with the climax being a major highlight in this and all other regards. Sound effects instead take greater precedence in this case, and are inarguably a minor joy. When all is said and done this may not stand as tall as some of Laurel and Hardy's other works, though in fairness, this was their first full-length feature. In any event, it's a good time more than not, and can claim a strong finish in the last stretch. I don't think it's something one needs to go out of their way to see, and the faults should be noted, but if you do have the chance to check out 'Pardon us' it's a decent watch and another small gem in the stars' crown.