Premium Only Content

Francis Covers the Big Town (1953) | American black-and-white comedy film directed by Arthur Lubin
"Francis Covers the Big Town" is a 1953 American black-and-white comedy film directed by Arthur Lubin. It is the fourth installment in the popular "Francis the Talking Mule" film series. The series is known for its comedic elements, centered around the character of Francis, a talking mule.
The film follows the adventures of Francis, a wise-cracking mule with the ability to talk, and his companion Peter Stirling, played by Donald O'Connor. In this installment, Francis and Peter find themselves embroiled in a series of comical misadventures in the bustling environment of a big city.
The story begins with Peter Stirling taking a job as a reporter for a newspaper in the city. Naturally, Francis accompanies him, and the duo gets involved in various escapades as they navigate the challenges of urban life. The talking mule's antics add a layer of humor to the film, as he provides witty commentary and humorous insights into the situations they encounter.
As Peter tries to adapt to his new role as a reporter, Francis becomes an unexpected sensation, drawing attention and causing a stir wherever they go. The film combines slapstick humor, wordplay, and situational comedy as the duo interacts with the eccentric characters of the big city.
The central plot involves Peter stumbling upon a potential news story or mystery, and with Francis's assistance (and interference), they attempt to uncover the truth. The film plays on the contrast between the seemingly ordinary man and his extraordinary talking mule, creating comedic scenarios that keep the audience entertained.
Donald O'Connor (Peter Stirling): O'Connor brings his comedic talents to the role of the affable and bemused reporter.
Voice of Chill Wills (Francis): Chill Wills provides the voice for Francis, infusing the character with humor and personality.
The "Francis the Talking Mule" series, of which "Francis Covers the Big Town" is a part, gained popularity for its lighthearted and comedic approach. While not necessarily critically acclaimed, the films were well-received by audiences, and the character of Francis became an enduring symbol of whimsical entertainment. The series contributed to the success of Donald O'Connor and added to the tradition of talking animal comedies in Hollywood.
-
1:45:12
Classic Films & Movies Archive
2 days agoDark Passage (1947) | Directed by Delmer Daves
1592 -
LIVE
The Mel K Show
1 hour agoMORNINGS WITH MEL K - Hunters Become the Hunted: The Truth Will Set Us Free 7-24-25
696 watching -
LIVE
Grant Stinchfield
44 minutes agoThe Dark Side of Organ Donation & Hillary’s Hidden Seditious Sedation
122 watching -
1:03:59
The Rubin Report
1 hour agoPress Stunned by Tulsi Gabbard’s Scathing Remarks During Her Shock Announcement
5.43K17 -
LIVE
The Shannon Joy Show
1 hour ago🔥🔥While Headlines Scream About Epstein, Obama, Hillary Scandals - Trump’s Digital Leviathan Is Unleashed With The BBB, AI.GOV & Three New Executive Orders🔥🔥
156 watching -
1:00:02
VINCE
3 hours agoAre The Walls Closing In On Obama? (w/ Victor Davis Hanson) | Episode 92 - 07/24/25
154K114 -
LIVE
LFA TV
15 hours agoLFA TV ALL DAY STREAM - THURSDAY 7/24/25
4,884 watching -
DVR
Bannons War Room
5 months agoWarRoom Live
29.6M7.32K -
1:09:28
The Big Migâ„¢
3 hours agoBarack Obama Goes To GITMO
6.2K12 -
2:03:11
Badlands Media
9 hours agoBadlands Daily: July 24, 2025
36K5