Watch Side Show

Side Show is a 1931 comedy-drama film directed by Roy Del Ruth, and starring Winnie Lightner, Charles Butterworth, and Evalyn Knapp. The film centers around the turn-of-the-century vaudeville scene and the challenges faced by performers in the circus and sideshow industry. In particular, it follows the comedic exploits of a small-time carnival wrestling promoter named Colonel Marmaduke Oldrich (Butterworth) and his unlikely partnership with a strong-willed female wrestler named Queenie Martin (Lightner) as they navigate the rough and tumble world of circus life.

Despite its light-hearted tone, the film also delves into darker themes such as exploitation and prejudice. Queenie, who is revealed to be half-black, is subjected to racist treatment by both her fellow performers and the audience, highlighting the harsh realities of her era. Similarly, the film tackles the corrupt and cut-throat nature of the entertainment industry, as Oldrich and his fellow hustlers vie for control over the various acts under their supervision.

The film opens with a rousing musical number, introducing the various performers of the show as they prepare for their next performance. Here we meet the plucky and fierce Queenie, who immediately establishes herself as a force to be reckoned with both in and out of the ring. Throughout the course of the story, we see her face numerous challenges, from being accused of cheating in a match to being kicked out of a hotel due to her race. Yet she remains steadfast in her determination to prove herself as a legitimate wrestler, even as she battles against the oppressive forces of racism and sexism.

On the other hand, Oldrich is portrayed as a hapless but well-meaning conman, constantly coming up with schemes to entice more customers to his shows. His lifelong goal is to become the owner of the biggest and most famous circus in the world, and he sees teaming up with Queenie as his ticket to success. However, his plans often go awry due to his own incompetence and the meddling of his rivals. Yet despite his many setbacks, he remains endearing to the audience thanks to his sharp wit and good intentions.

As the story progresses, the various circus performers are forced to deal with increasing levels of competition and financial pressures. Oldrich and his fellow hustlers must resort to desperate tactics to keep their performers working and their shows profitable, leading to a series of hilarious hijinks and unexpected twists. Meanwhile, Queenie faces ever greater challenges in the ring, including a climactic showdown with a brutish male wrestler that tests her strength and endurance to their limits.

Overall, Side Show is a charming and enjoyable film that captures the lively spirit and colorful characters of the circus and vaudeville scenes of the early 20th century. Its lively musical numbers and comedic set pieces provide plenty of laughs, while its more serious themes lend it a surprising emotional depth. Above all, the film stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of its lead characters, who overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve their dreams.

Side Show is a 1931 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.