Who Done It?

Watch Who Done It?

"Shudder through your laughter at the gayest, goofiest manhunt since Abbott and Costello convulsed the screen!"
  • PG
  • 1942
  • 1 hr 16 min
  • 7.3  (2,696)

Who Done It? is a classic comedy from 1942, directed by Erle C. Kenton, and starring the iconic duo of Abbott and Costello, alongside Patric Knowles. The film follows the hilarious misadventures of Chick Larkin (Bud Abbott) and Mervyn Milgrim (Lou Costello), two hapless soda jerks who inadvertently find themselves embroiled in a murder mystery when they witness a group of sinister characters perform a dark ritual in the theater they work at. When one of the performers is murdered, Chick and Mervyn become suspects in the case, and they must race to clear their names by solving the crime themselves.

The film opens on Chick and Mervyn working at a theater that is hosting a radio broadcast of a true-crime program called "Murder at Midnight." As they are closing up for the night, they overhear a group of eerie-sounding men reciting strange incantations and performing a mysterious ritual on the stage. Chick and Mervyn are initially scared out of their wits but decide to investigate further when they learn that one of the cast members has been killed, and the evidence points towards them as the killers.

In typical Abbott and Costello fashion, the duo bumbles their way through the investigation, comically misinterpreting clues and inadvertently incriminating themselves at every turn. They encounter a series of colorful characters, including a flirtatious actress (played by Joan Shawlee), a dodgy journalist (played by William Gargan), and a suave British detective (played by Patric Knowles), who all aid or impede their attempts to solve the case.

As the investigation progresses, Chick and Mervyn stumble upon a conspiracy involving a sinister mastermind, a hidden treasure, and a secret underground tunnel. They are eventually able to identify the perpetrator, clear their names, and save the day, with plenty of laughs and laughs along the way.

Who Done It? is a great example of the classic era of Hollywood comedy, with Abbott and Costello performing their trademark slapstick humor and witty banter. Their chemistry on screen is infectious, and their comedic timing is impeccable. The film also employs some clever visual gags, including a scene where Chick and Mervyn disguise themselves as detectives with fake mustaches and trench coats.

The supporting cast also plays a vital role in the film's success, with Patric Knowles delivering a charming performance as the debonair detective, and Joan Shawlee providing plenty of laughs as the seductive actress. The film's villain, played by William "Wee Willie" Davis, is suitably menacing, with an imposing stature and ominous presence.

The film's pacing is fast and furious, with one comedic set-piece following another, and each new revelation in the mystery leading to another twist in the plot. The film also integrates music and performance into the story, with several performances of the radio show's theme song, "Who Done It," adding to the film's playful tone.

Overall, Who Done It? is a classic comedy that has stood the test of time. Abbott and Costello's humor is timeless, and the film's murder mystery plot adds a layer of intrigue that keeps the audience engaged. The film is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood comedy and anyone looking for a lighthearted, fun-filled movie experience.

Who Done It?
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Description
  • Release Date
    1942
  • MPAA Rating
    PG
  • Runtime
    1 hr 16 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.3  (2,696)