''A Night at the Opera'', -a-1935, art by Al Hirschfeld
by Movie World Posters
Title
''A Night at the Opera'', -a-1935, art by Al Hirschfeld
Artist
Movie World Posters
Medium
Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Posters
Description
A vintage movie poster reprint of Movie poster ''A Night at the Opera'', a 1935 American comedy film directed by Sam Wood and starring the Marx Brothers, including Groucho Marx, Chico Marx, and Harpo Marx. It is considered one of the Marx Brothers' greatest and most iconic films, known for its sharp wit, zany humor, and hilarious antics. Here's a detailed description of "A Night at the Opera":
Plot and Setting:
"A Night at the Opera" is set in the world of opera and follows the misadventures of two stowaways, Otis B. Driftwood (played by Groucho Marx) and Fiorello (played by Chico Marx), as they become embroiled in the chaotic production of an opera in New York City. The film also features Harpo Marx in the role of Tomasso, a mute assistant to a famous opera singer.
Comedy and Chaos:
The film is a riotous comedy that is known for its anarchic humor and slapstick gags. The Marx Brothers' trademark wit and zany antics are on full display, from Groucho's rapid-fire wordplay to Chico's hilarious Italian accent and Harpo's physical comedy. The film is a series of comedic set pieces that result in chaos and laughter.
Satire and Social Commentary:
While "A Night at the Opera" is primarily a comedy, it also contains elements of satire and social commentary. It satirizes the pretentiousness of the opera world and the absurdity of high society, often highlighting the contrast between the Marx Brothers' irreverent characters and the stuffy elites they encounter.
Musical Numbers:
Despite being a comedy, the film features several musical interludes, including performances from famous opera singers such as Kitty Carlisle and Allan Jones. These musical moments add to the film's charm and serve as a backdrop for some of the Marx Brothers' comedic antics.
The Stateroom Scene:
One of the most famous scenes in "A Night at the Opera" is the "stateroom scene," in which the Marx Brothers, along with numerous other people, cram into a tiny stateroom on a cruise ship. The scene is a masterpiece of physical comedy and is often cited as one of the funniest moments in film history.
Legacy:
"A Night at the Opera" is widely regarded as one of the Marx Brothers' finest films and a classic of American comedy. It has had a lasting impact on the comedy genre and continues to be celebrated for its humor and wit.
Critical and Popular Reception:
Upon its release, "A Night at the Opera" received critical acclaim and was a box office success. It remains a beloved classic that has entertained generations of audiences.
In summary, "A Night at the Opera" is a 1935 comedy film that showcases the comedic genius of the Marx Brothers. Known for its hilarious humor, memorable characters, and iconic scenes, the film continues to be cherished as a timeless classic in the world of comedy cinema.
About the artist:
Al Hirschfeld (June 21, 1903 – January 20, 2003) was an American caricaturist best known for his black and white portraits of celebrities and Broadway stars. His art appeared regularly in "The New York Times" and other publications during his 70-year career.
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Uploaded
May 9th, 2021
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