1932 Speak Easily (Buster Keaton)

"Speak Easily" is a 1932 American pre-Code comedy film, notable for being one of Buster Keaton's starring vehicles during his time at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). The film features Keaton's unique brand of physical comedy in a new, sound-era setting, alongside a strong cast that includes Jimmy Durante.

Here's a description of the movie:

Title: Speak Easily

Release Year: 1932

Genre: Comedy, Slapstick, Pre-Code

Director: Edward Sedgwick

Screenplay by: Robert E. Hopkins

Production Company: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)

Plot:
The film centers on Professor Timothy Quail (played by Buster Keaton), a shy, mild-mannered, and naive classics professor at a small, rural college. He inherits a significant sum of money and, due to a series of comedic misunderstandings, believes his college is about to close. With his new wealth, he decides to "save" it.

Quail stumbles into a traveling theatrical troupe, a group of eccentric and struggling actors, dancers, and performers. He is convinced that this is a reputable and high-class "legitimate theatre" company and decides to become their patron, investing his entire fortune in their show.

Unbeknownst to him, the troupe is a complete sham, and the show they are putting on is a disaster. The ringleader of the group is the boisterous and con-artist-like James "Jimmy" Durante (played by himself), who sees a perfect opportunity in the naive Professor Quail.

The film's humor comes from the stark contrast between the dignified, serious professor and the wild, chaotic world of show business. Quail's attempts to navigate this bizarre new life lead to a series of hilarious situations:

He gets cast in the show and must perform despite his complete lack of talent.

He is constantly caught in compromising positions due to the troupe's antics.

His quiet dignity is repeatedly shattered by the loud and flamboyant characters, particularly Durante.

The film culminates in a frantic, madcap finale as the troupe tries to get their act together and Quail's inheritance hangs in the balance. It showcases Keaton's signature deadpan expressions and physical gags, often as a bewildered observer in the midst of pandemonium.

Significance:
"Speak Easily" is a classic example of Buster Keaton's transition to the sound era and his work within MGM's studio system. While his creative control was limited at MGM, this film allowed him to play the type of sympathetic, put-upon character that made him a star in the silent era. The film is also a great showcase of the comedic chemistry between the quiet, physical comedy of Keaton and the loud, boisterous, and verbal humor of Jimmy Durante. It's an important film for understanding the shift in Keaton's career and the evolution of comedy in Hollywood.