Here We Go Again

Strictly designed as a vehicle for NBC to promote its radio stars, Fibber McGee and Molly (Jim and Marian Jordan) and Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy. Directed by prolific craftsman Allan Dwan, the "story" was probably rejected by The Three Stooges as being too unbelievable. Still, it is a delight to see the Jordans and Bergen in the flesh, especially as they lost out on TV careers. Also fun: A baby-faced Bill Thompson before he was drafted into the Navy and Gale Gordon before he lost his hair screaming at Lucille Ball. Found treasure: I had never heard of the beautiful Ginny Simms, who apparently had quite a career in the 40s as a singer. There are oddities such as long-shots of Mortimer and Charlie played by children. An unnecessary and racist side-trip to an "Indian village" mars the product as well, but it accurately reflects pre-Dr. King American mores. A must-see for OTR fans.