Director: Norman Z. McLeod•Genres: Comedy, War
A group of eccentric inventors are working on a secret weapon for the war effort. However, their project is constantly hindered by their own bizarre personalities and the interference of a bumbling spy who is trying to steal their plans. The film follows their comedic attempts to overcome these obstacles and deliver their invention.
Back-Room Boy is a lighthearted wartime comedy that, while not a critical darling, was generally seen as a diverting piece of propaganda during World War II. Its humor relies heavily on the established comedic personas of its stars. While some critics found its plot thin and its humor predictable, audiences at the time likely appreciated its patriotic message and escapist entertainment.
Relies heavily on the established comedic chemistry of Lauck and Burns.
Features a surprisingly effective, albeit brief, performance from W.C. Fields.
A light and entertaining wartime diversion with a patriotic slant.
Google audience: Information not available.
The film was one of W.C. Fields's final film appearances, and he plays an inventor who accidentally creates a powerful, albeit unwieldy, flying machine.
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