"Joe Palooka" was a comic strip created in 1921 by Ham Fisher. It was about a big, good natured prize fighter who didn't like to fight, a defender of the little guy who couldn't defend himself - a white knight. When it was first bought to the screen in 1934 everything worked so well. Stuart Erwin was Joe, a character he had perfected over the years. Jimmie Durante was excellent as Knobby Walsh and was there ever a more beautiful "Anne" than Mary Carlisle. The wonderful character actress Marjorie Rambeau played Joe's mother Mayme and the ever reliable Robert Armstrong was Joe's dad Pete "Goodtime" Palooka
Mayme Palooka is sick of her husband's wandering ways - after finding him celebrating his latest boxing win with Trixie (Thelma Todd in a bit part) she takes her son to the country determined not to let him be a boxer. Years later while Joe is delivering eggs, he meets the dynamic Knobby Walsh , who convinces him to become a prize fighter. He is all set to fight McSwatt (William Cagney, looking uncannily like his brother - even with the same speech and mannerisms!!!). After knocking out McSwatt, he inherits McSwatt's girlfriend. Lupe Velez is vibrant as Nina, the vampy cabaret singer. "Poor little bracelet - 'ee looks so lonely by 'eeself" - Nina,angling for another diamond bracelet.
After a couple of weeks Joe has gone to the dogs, believing his own publicity. Fighting takes a back seat to toothpaste and mouthwash endorsements. His mother turns up with Anne to see if she can lick him back into shape. After Joe drunkenly challenges McSwatt to a grudge match Knobby doesn't think Joe stands a chance. Then Pete Palooka shows up in time to train him for his big fight.
This film is a showcase for Jimmy Durante and his zany brand of comedy. "He's no more a champ than you are an Indian" - "I am an Indian - my name is "Sitting Pretty"" - Knobby's reply to a disgruntled manager. "There's a guy after my own heart" Knobby says, "yeah with a big knife" his offsider replies. He even sings his signature tune, "Inka Dinka Doo".
Recommended.
- he was great in the role.
Mayme Palooka is sick of her husband's wandering ways - after finding him celebrating his latest boxing win with Trixie (Thelma Todd in a bit part) she takes her son to the country determined not to let him be a boxer. Years later while Joe is delivering eggs, he meets the dynamic Knobby Walsh , who convinces him to become a prize fighter. He is all set to fight McSwatt (William Cagney, looking uncannily like his brother - even with the same speech and mannerisms!!!). After knocking out McSwatt, he inherits McSwatt's girlfriend. Lupe Velez is vibrant as Nina, the vampy cabaret singer. "Poor little bracelet - 'ee looks so lonely by 'eeself" - Nina,angling for another diamond bracelet.
After a couple of weeks Joe has gone to the dogs, believing his own publicity. Fighting takes a back seat to toothpaste and mouthwash endorsements. His mother turns up with Anne to see if she can lick him back into shape. After Joe drunkenly challenges McSwatt to a grudge match Knobby doesn't think Joe stands a chance. Then Pete Palooka shows up in time to train him for his big fight.
This film is a showcase for Jimmy Durante and his zany brand of comedy. "He's no more a champ than you are an Indian" - "I am an Indian - my name is "Sitting Pretty"" - Knobby's reply to a disgruntled manager. "There's a guy after my own heart" Knobby says, "yeah with a big knife" his offsider replies. He even sings his signature tune, "Inka Dinka Doo".
Recommended.