Knock on Wood
Knock on Wood

Knock on Wood

1954Movie103 minEnglish

Ventriloquist Jerry Morgan has failed with another love affair. The reason: when the relationship reaches the point when it is time to discuss marriage, his two dolls become mean and jealous. Morgan's dollmaker Papinek is a member of a spy ring who has stolen the secret plans for the top-secret Lafayette airplane. Since Morgan is leaving for Zurich the same night, he decides to hide the secret plan in the heads of the dolls.

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IMDb6.6/10
Director: Mel ShavelsonGenres: Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

A nervous, stuttering American ventriloquist, Jerry "Snowflake" Murrigan, travels to Sweden to perform. Unbeknownst to him, his puppets are being used by a spy ring to pass secret information. Jerry finds himself embroiled in espionage, falling for a beautiful woman who may or may not be involved, and trying to overcome his own anxieties.

Critical Reception

Knock on Wood was a commercial success, largely driven by the immense popularity of its star, Danny Kaye. While critics acknowledged Kaye's comedic talent and the film's lighthearted entertainment value, some found the plot to be a bit thin and predictable. Audiences, however, were delighted by Kaye's signature physical comedy and musical numbers.

What Reviewers Say

  • Danny Kaye's energetic performance is the main draw, with his physical comedy and musical numbers being highlights.
  • The plot, involving spies and secret messages, is a familiar premise but serves as a sufficient vehicle for Kaye's talents.
  • While not groundbreaking, the film offers lighthearted entertainment suitable for family viewing.

Google audience: Audience reception for Knock on Wood is generally positive, with many praising Danny Kaye's comedic genius and his ability to entertain through song and dance. The film is often remembered as a classic example of Kaye's unique brand of humor.

Fun Fact

The film features a subplot where Danny Kaye's character uses his ventriloquist skills to impersonate a Swedish farmer and a radio announcer, showcasing his versatility and comedic range.

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TMDB Reviews

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CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

With Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly dominating this genre, it's easy to forget that Danny Kaye was actually quite an accomplished dancer and singer - and he demonstrates that quite charismatically in this rather daft spy caper. Here he also re...