Watch The Big Store
- NR
- 1941
- 1 hr 23 min
-
6.5 (5,430)
The Big Store from 1941 is a comedy masterwork from the legendary Marx Brothers, starring Groucho Marx, Chico Marx, and Harpo Marx. Directed by Charles Reisner, the film follows the antics of the Marx Brothers as they wreak havoc in a department store. The film begins with the wealthy Mrs. Phelps, played by Margaret Dumont, demanding that the department store where she shops hire a new general manager to replace Mr. Grover, who is retiring. A false identity is then created for Groucho Marx's character, Wolf J. Flywheel, to appear as a business-minded executive for the department store, leading to a series of hilarious escapades as he tries to save the store from the brink of bankruptcy.
Chico Marx plays the role of Wacky, Flywheel's assistant, and the two of them get into all sorts of trouble as they try to negotiate deals, find new suppliers, and impress Mrs. Phelps with their business acumen. Meanwhile, Harpo Marx plays the mute "Punchy" who serves as the store's elevator operator and janitor, but who also gets involved in the chaos and mayhem.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film involves Harpo's character, who is chased by a group of angry store employees after accidentally hitting one of them with a bottle. He tries to flee through the store, setting off a series of outrageous stunts and gags, including riding a bike through the store and using a vacuum cleaner to fly through the air.
The film is full of classic Marx Brothers humor, including quick-witted puns, physical comedy, and slapstick routines. Groucho's one-liners are as sharp as ever, and his exchanges with Chico are priceless, as they banter back and forth with their trademark verbal bickering.
The Big Store also features a memorable musical scene, with Chico and Harpo performing a piano duet that's interrupted by Groucho's signature musical number, "Sing While You Sell". The scene is a showcase for the brothers' musical talents, as well as their comedic timing.
Overall, The Big Store is a fun and entertaining romp that showcases the Marx Brothers at their best. The film is a must-see for fans of classic comedy and anyone who appreciates the unique style and humor of the Marx Brothers.
The Big Store is a 1941 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.