The Errand Boy
The Errand Boy

The Errand Boy

1961Movie92 minEnglish

Paramutual Pictures wants to know where all the money is going so they hire Morty to be their spy. Morty works for Mr. Sneak and gets a job in the mail room so that he can have access to the lot. But all that Morty ever finds is that he can cause havoc no matter what he does.

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Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes50%
Google Users79%
Director: Jerry LewisGenres: Comedy

Plot Summary

Paramount Pictures executive, Fred K. Smith, desperate to cut costs, hires a young, eager, and not-so-bright man named Morty S. (Jerry Lewis) as a lowly errand boy. Morty's enthusiasm and eagerness to please often lead to chaotic and disastrous situations within the studio. Despite his blunders, Morty's unwavering optimism and unique approach to his tasks inadvertently bring about surprising changes and resolutions within the corporate environment.

Critical Reception

The Errand Boy was met with mixed to positive reviews upon its release, often seen as a vehicle for Jerry Lewis's particular brand of slapstick comedy. While some critics found its humor formulaic, many praised Lewis's energetic performance and the film's underlying commentary on the studio system. Audience reception was generally favorable, contributing to its box office success.

What Reviewers Say

  • Jerry Lewis delivers his signature slapstick and physical comedy.
  • The film offers a behind-the-scenes look at a Hollywood studio with varying degrees of success.
  • While predictable, the movie is buoyed by Lewis's tireless performance.

Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film, appreciating Jerry Lewis's comedic talents and the lighthearted, often zany, plot. Some viewers found the humor a bit dated, but most agreed it was an entertaining watch that showcased Lewis at his energetic best.

Fun Fact

The film satirizes the Hollywood studio system of the early 1960s, including depictions of executives and the filmmaking process.

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