Our resident movie correspondent takes us on a journey back in time as the Marx Brothers bring their unique brand of 1930s humor to Santa Anita. In "A Day at the Races" (1937), directed by Sam Wood and starring the Marx Brothers, Margaret Dumont, and Maureen O’Sullivan, we witness a world of singing, dancing, and slapstick comedy.

Uncover the Magic of the Marx Brothers at Santa Anita

Margaret Dumont: The Straight Lady in the Marx Brothers' World

Margaret Dumont, a stage actor who left her career to become a society maven, stepped back into the spotlight with the Marx Brothers. In "A Day at the Races", she plays the dim-but-dignified foil to Groucho Marx. As she told an interviewer in 1937, "I’m a straight lady, the best in Hollywood. There is an art to playing the straight role. You must build up your man but never top him, never steal the laughs." Her performance adds a touch of elegance to the chaotic world of the Marx Brothers. 2: Dumont's role in the movie is crucial. She provides a contrast to the zany antics of the Marx Brothers, making their humor even more exaggerated. Her presence on screen is like a steady anchor in the midst of the chaos, adding a layer of depth to the story.

The Marx Brothers' Transition to Studio Pictures

By 1937, the Marx Brothers were big business. Their popular transition from the vaudeville stage to studio pictures gave them almost carte blanche when it came to the staging of their increasingly complicated slapstick routines. In "A Day at the Races", which was their seventh film and second for MGM, huge swaths of the running time were devoted to setpieces that were virtual stand-alone distractions from the story continuity. 2: This freedom allowed the Marx Brothers to explore their comedic talents to the fullest. Their physical comedy was broad and sometimes cruel, but it was always punctuated by Groucho's wisecracks. The result was a movie that was both hilarious and memorable.

The Santa Anita Connection

At the time of filming "A Day at the Races" in 1936, Santa Anita had just concluded its second season. The idea of building a massive sporting emporium during the Great Depression was considered a risky venture, but it was made possible with the backing of Hollywood studio money and prestige. The track opened its arms to movie productions, including a short feature called "A Day at Santa Anita", starring Sybil Jason and featuring cameos by Bette Davis, Edward G. Robinson, and Al Jolson. 2: The presence of Santa Anita in the movie added an extra layer of authenticity. The races and the grandstand became a backdrop for the Marx Brothers' antics, making the movie even more enjoyable for audiences.

The Shallow Romance

The shallow romance between Maureen O’Sullivan and Allan Jones in "A Day at the Races" is not the main focus of the movie. She was known as Jane in the Johnny Weissmuller series of Tarzan films, while Jones was a typical movie crooner. Their relationship is a mere backdrop for the antics of the Marx Brothers. 2: However, their scenes together add a touch of humanity to the movie. It shows that even in a world of chaos and humor, there is room for love and romance.

The Cast and Their Roles

The rest of the cast in "A Day at the Races" is mere fodder for the antics of the three brothers. Richard Farnsworth, a young wrangler just 17 years old, played a significant role as the jockey on Hi Hat's capable challenger. After directing "A Night at the Opera" and "A Day at the Races", Sam Wood went on to direct several other classic movies. 2: Each member of the cast played their part in making the movie a success. From the Marx Brothers to the supporting actors, everyone contributed to the unique atmosphere of the movie.

The Comedy and Music

Marx Brothers movies were known for their grab-bag of comedy, lightweight drama, and music. In "A Day at the Races", we see a variety of musical numbers that rank among the most boisterously joyful in film history. From a song by Allan Jones at the rundown stable to a sprawling number by a troupe of Black actors, singers, and dancers, the music adds another dimension to the movie. 2: The use of music in the movie helps to enhance the comedic moments and create a more immersive experience for the audience. It shows the versatility of the Marx Brothers and their ability to incorporate different elements into their movies.

The Big Race

The big race in "A Day at the Races" is little more than a live-action Looney Tunes. It is filled with head-shaking smiles and unexpected moments. The production ends with a parading reprise of "All God’s Children" led by Hi Hat and jockey Harpo, with Groucho proposing marriage to Emily Upjohn. 2: The big race is a highlight of the movie. It is a chaotic and exciting moment that brings together all the elements of the movie and leaves the audience with a lasting impression.

The Legacy of the Marx Brothers

A later generation of film critics would cement the Marx Brothers comedies as foundational to the evolution of the American cinema. Their madcap movies have influenced generations of filmmakers, from Blake Edwards to the Farrelly brothers and actors like Jim Carrey and Will Ferrell. 2: The Marx Brothers' movies continue to be loved and appreciated by audiences today. Their ability to make people laugh and forget their troubles is a testament to their talent and creativity.