Buck Privates

US (1941): Comedy/Musical

With America on the verge of entering World War II, Abbott and Costello starred in their first feature film as privates inducted into the army. A masterpiece of loosely choreographed slapstick, incorporating many bits from their vaudeville routines, the film throws the A&C monkey wrench into the standardized routines of Army life. Fellow privates (played by Lee Bowman and Alan Curtis) compete for a beautiful leading lady (Jane Frazee). The film also features the Andrews Sisters, who perform songs like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company 'B'", "Bounce Me Brother With a Solid Four", "You're a Lucky Fellow, Mr. Smith" and "I'll Be With You When It's Apple Blossom Time."

Although Arthur Lubin was a contract director at Universal, Buck Privates was such a hit ($4 million gross on a $180,000 budget) that the studio gave him a $5,000 bonus. The huge success of the film led to Abbott and Costello in the Navy, rushed into production and released later that same year, with Bud and Lou supporting Dick Powell. (amctv.com)

 Use this link to view the original theatrical trailer for Buck Privates on TCM.com.

2 nominations