Go West
Embezzler, shill, all around confidence man S. Quentin Quale is heading west to find his fortune; he meets the crafty but simple brothers Joseph and Rusty Panello in a train station, where they steal all his money. They're heading west, too, because they've heard you can just pick the gold off the ground. Once there, they befriend an old miner named Dan Wilson whose property, Dead Man's Gulch, has no gold. They loan him their last ten dollars so he can go start life anew, and for collateral, he gives them the deed to the Gulch. Unbeknownst to Wilson, the son of his longtime rival, Terry Turner (who's also in love with his daughter, Eva), has contacted the railroad to arrange for them to build through the land, making the old man rich and hopefully resolving the feud. But the evil Red Baxter, owner of a saloon, tricks the boys out of the deed, and it's up to them - as well as Quale, who naturally finds his way out west anyway - to save the day.
Insights
Plot Summary
A trio of unlikely friends inherits a ranch and a herd of cattle in the American West. They face numerous challenges, including outlaws and the harsh environment, as they try to make a living as cowboys. Their unique brand of chaotic problem-solving leads to a series of hilarious mishaps and grand adventures.
Critical Reception
Go West is generally considered a weaker entry in the Marx Brothers' filmography, often criticized for its somewhat meandering plot and a reliance on slapstick over witty dialogue. However, it still contains moments of classic Marx Brothers' brilliance and benefits from the Marx brothers' unique comedic talents, particularly in the memorable 'food' scene.
What Reviewers Say
- The film showcases the Marx Brothers' signature anarchic humor, though it sometimes overshadows the narrative.
- While not as sharp as their earlier works, it provides ample opportunities for physical comedy and individual performances.
- The plot, concerning cattle rustling and ranch life, serves mainly as a framework for the brothers' antics.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the memorable scenes, particularly the lengthy 'mousetrap' sequence involving a meal, as a standout comedic achievement. While some acknowledge the plot's weaknesses, many find the film entertaining due to the Marx Brothers' enduring appeal and comedic energy.
Fun Fact
The famous scene where Harpo, Chico, and Groucho eat the entire contents of a diner, including the chairs and tables, was so meticulously planned and executed that it took several days to film.
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