Ducks in a Row: An Analysis of Duck Soup

       A classic in its own right, the Marx Brother’s Duck Soup (1933) has stood the test of time, acting as a satire of the political machine for over 80 years. It was ranked on the American Film Institute’s “100 Years… 100 Movies,” a list of the 100 greatest American films of all time, at #60. The movie follows the antics of Rufus T. Firefly (portrayed with great enthusiasm by Groucho Marx) as he assumes the duties of acting president of the imaginary country of Freedonia. Along the way, Firefly deals with spies and even a war as he navigates the political field. What makes the movie so special though aside from its stars’ comedic timing?

"Rufus T. Firefly: Ladies Man"

            One explanation may be its ability to fit into Victor Perkins’ theory for evaluating film. In order for a film to be considered good, it must comply with certain realist standards. It can go above and beyond the call of duty, however, through its stylization, as long as it is restrained in a realist fashion. Stylization and realism, at least according to Perkins, can coexist.

Though the film Duck Soup has several absurd moments, it rarely breaks the rules of the world it creates. The one scene that strays from realism occurs when Harpo has a tattoo of a dog suddenly come to life for a fleeting moment. This is really the only instance of the film breaking the mold, so I feel as though it still falls within the category of realism. What makes Duck Soup an even greater experience is the stylization, which adds a bit of flair. Of course, it is a Marx Brother’s film so would you expect anything less?

Here is the animate dog tattoo scene in its entirety:

Another qualification that makes the film great is the effect that it gives off. Many of the gags could have easily been reproduced on the vaudeville stage, but yet leave us laughing in the aisle all the same. There are, however, fleeting moments in the war scene at the end (such as the blowing up of a building), which could not have easily been translated theatrically.  Another visual gag involves Rooster calling for reinforcements, which cuts to a montage of different charging crowds (from motorcyclists and runners to baboons). The sheer scope of the inauguration seen, with the many extras would not have had the same sense of grandeur. All these add to the effect and create a truly memorable and magical experience.