Synopses & Reviews
The success of clown comedy is dependent on the comic or comics who take center stage. These comics are usually identified with a specific comedic shtick, physical or visual humor, and their underdog status. This study by film scholar Wes Gehring presents a brief, historical overview of major figures in the genre, including W. C. Fields, Charlie Chaplin, Bob Hope, and Woody Allen. The comedians discussed are drawn from four genre periods: the silent era, the depression era, the post-World War II period, and the modern era.
Review
A prolific writer on film comedy, Gehring has produced another thoughtful and delightful work.... Brilliantly informed, the author has a knack for connecting comic performers and shticks from one era to another... In the introduction, a quick-cut montage of memories of classic comic bits and characters, ideas and cinematic references march across the page: this reviewer felt like Lucy on the assembly line, stuffing chocolates in her mouth. It is a delicious pell-mell romp. Subsequent chapters offer more leisurely and in-depth discussion... [Gehring] instructs and delights, and his work is consistently enjoyable and highly recommended.Choice
Synopsis
This book presents a brief, historical overview of major figures in comedic cinema history, including W. C. Fields, Charlie Chaplin, Bob Hope, and Woody Allen.
Description
Filmography: p. [185]-194. Includes bibliographical references (p. [195]-203) and index.
About the Author
WES D. GEHRING is Professor of Film at Ball State University.
Table of Contents
Illustrations
Foreword by Dennis E. Hensley
Preface
Introduction
Bunny and Charlie
The Marxes, Laurel &Hardy and W. C. Fields
Where There's Hope...There's Allen--Woody
Epilogue
Appendix: Selected Filmography
Selected Bibliography