Movie spotlight
The boys think their days of fishing to feed themselves have come to an end, when Stan's rich uncle Ebenezer dies leaving a large estate. But they soon learn that Ebenezer was murdered and all the relatives, including Stan, are suspects.
Stan and Ollie are invited to a mansion by a wealthy man who claims to be dying and wants to leave them his fortune. Upon arrival, they discover the man has been murdered, and they become suspects along with the other peculiar guests.
As one of Laurel and Hardy's Hal Roach studio shorts, this film is generally well-regarded by fans for its blend of slapstick comedy and mystery elements. It showcases the duo's signature chemistry and comedic timing within a unique narrative framework.
Praised for its inventive premise and effective integration of mystery into Laurel and Hardy's comedy.
Laurel and Hardy deliver their characteristic charming performances, navigating the whodunit plot with their usual delightful incompetence.
The short is notable for its atmospheric setting and the suspense it builds, juxtaposed with the duo's comedic antics.
Google audience: Audience reception for this short film is generally positive, with viewers appreciating the classic Laurel and Hardy humor and the entertaining mystery plot. Many enjoy the duo's reactions to the eerie mansion and the unfolding events.
This short is unique among Laurel and Hardy films for being the only one to feature a prominent opera singer, Lawrence Tibbett, who plays himself and sings in the film.
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So our pair are fishing by the river when Ollie reads in the newspaper of the death of the wealthy Ebenezer Laurel. Could Stan be a relative? Well they head off to the eerie mansion to see if they can claim some of the $3m estate... Once th...