After 72 episodes of you listening to us, today we listen to you, as Council members offer their insights and opinions of the Marxes’ first (surviving) film. Are its age and creakiness actually a blessing in disguise? How many tunes named “The Monkey Doodle Doo” did Irving Berlin actually compose? And why is Matthew comparing Oscar Shaw to Pavarotti? All this, and Eddie Deezen…need we say more? A podcast that you won’t want to end, and it almost doesn’t.

Biographer, cultural critic, and comics veteran Danny Fingeroth joins Noah and Bob for a game of Marx Brothers "What If...?" inspired by the multiverse series Danny worked on in his days at Marvel Comics. They ask, what if Groucho had become a doctor? What if Chico had been good with money? What if Zeppo had been good at...well, performing? Danny also discusses growing up in the Marxes' old New York neighborhood and how Lee Harvey Oswald's killer Jack Ruby helped get Gabe Kaplan to participate in Marxfest.

Groucho’s 1959’s autobiography, “Groucho and Me” is delved into, featuring the world’s most renowned impressionist of the man, Frank Ferrante. The guys question if the book is truly an autobiography or just a collection of entertaining half-truths. They note the moments of humility and surprising self-awareness by Groucho, while noting that what is left out is as telling as what is included. Frank details how he’s mined the book over the years to keep his one-man show fresh, and talks about the joy of bringing Groucho to life as well as his plans for the future. Reading “Groucho and Me” is not a prerequisite for enjoying the discussion, as the guys examine the man as much as what’s in the book.

A busy two-fold episode. First the guys deep dive into the world of Marx Brothers movie trailers, exploring their sometimes puzzling approaches, noting unique footage or dialogue, and lamenting those that are missing...one of which we get big news about in mid-show! To follow along, you can view all the trailers at: https://youtu.be/j2jbuHNeyZo Then (at 1:07:00), actor/writer Jerry Sroka joins the podcast to discuss his new semi-autobiographical film, “Our Almost Completely True Love Story” in which he plays a Marx Brothers fanatic who courts actress Mariette Hartley. Jerry details the genesis of the film, which is laden with Marx references, as well as his real-life marriage to Mariette. He also recalls some hilarious personal and professional encounters with Woody Allen.

This month the guys look at two films with historically-important Marx appearances that were restored and released on a 2020 Blu-ray…now do you get the title? First, Matthew and Noah dissect Harpo’s brief supporting turn in the obscure 1925 silent romantic-comedy “Too Many Kisses”. They speculate on how Harpo came to be in the film and point out nuances in his performance that show the Harpo we know and love. Then they examine the ‘Theatrical Agency’ scene from the 1931 Paramount promotional film “The House That Shadows Built”. The guys discuss the circumstances which led them to shoot a skit that pre-dates “I’ll Say She Is”, and wonder if it’s Zeppo’s greatest performance.

“30 Rock”, “Only Murders in the Building”, “2 Broke Girls”, “The West Wing”…this is a minuscule sampling of series directed by our guest, director/actor/producer Don Scardino, a rabid Marx Brothers fan since the 1960’s. We explore Don’s Marx backstory and how they’ve influenced his work. He talks in-depth about making comedy, with behind-the-scenes tales going back to his days as a performer in the original production of “Godspell”. Don gives his thoughts on what makes a good Marx Brothers director, and why he thinks their later career went the way it did. Don also details his latest film, the soon-to-be-released “Our (Almost Completely True) Love Story” which has a Marx Brothers fanatic at its center…and what it was like to work with thousands of worms in 1976’s “Squirm”.

On the occasion of our sixtieth episode (not counting the ones we don’t count), we look back at the history of The Marx Brothers Council Podcast. Starting with its origins, as most stories do, we recount memorable moments, surprising guests, and our few regrets...topped off by hopes and plans for the future. And to pay the bills, we also talk some actual Marx Brothers, as we discuss which films we’ve changed our mind most about over the years. This is our way of thanking you all for sticking with us after the “Skidoo” deep dive.

The lost 1932 Groucho/Chico radio series “Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel” has long been a white whale for Marx fans. While the scripts were discovered in 1988, and a few tantalizing recordings have turned up (with more coming soon), it was the 1990-1992 adaptations by Mark Brisenden for the BBC which allowed new generations to enjoy the show. Mark joins us for an oral history of the project, starting with becoming a Marx fan at age six, getting his feet wet writing comedy, and eventually landing at the BBC…where persistence made the “Flywheel” revival a reality. We’ll hear of Mark’s encounters with original writer Nat Perrin, as well as the legendary Spike Milligan, who was not only a fan of the show, but made a guest appearance.

This month, we welcome back “Schmigadoon!” co-creator/showrunner Cinco Paul to help sift thru the curiosity that is Groucho Marx’s final film appearance, the ‘far-out’ 1968 comedy, “Skidoo.” You don’t need to like (or even have seen) the film to enjoy our discussion of the whats, whys, and what-ifs from a movie that’s not quite as half-assed as you expect it to be. What was Groucho thinking? What was Preminger thinking? What does Jackie Gleason sound like after taking LSD? You’ll hear our thoughts on these…plus the tragic tale of one of your hosts who, after numerous viewings, is actually starting to like “Skidoo.”

Film preservationist and collector Eric Grayson joins us to examine the 2023 state of the Marx Brothers’ catalog. We discuss which films have missing, damaged, or subpar footage (and we don’t mean “Go West”), and whether there is any hope for upgrades. Eric gets into the weeds with info that will surprise even the most knowledgeable fan. We’ll also examine the copyright issues that the Marx films will soon face, and look forward to how AI technology may help in restoration efforts. Finally, you’ll find out what happens when we have a guest who’s never heard our podcast.

Once again we dip into the mailbag for questions and comments from our loyal listeners. Bob joins us to serve as quizmaster, as we discuss subjects such as post-Duck Soup Freedonia/Sylvania relations, Marx pets, Matthew’s and Noah’s book sale numbers, and Groucho’s connection to the Chicago 7 trial. Of course, we can’t ignore the um, er…well, let’s just say the recently discovered “Horse Feathers” stills. Talk about pre-code!

What if Eddie Buzzell directed “Horse Feathers”? What if the Marxes did a film with Mae West? What if Harpo and Chico made shorts in the 1940’s?… And what if Matthew and Noah did an episode pondering these questions and more? Yep, your Marx Brothers daydreams are this month’s topic, as the guys give into baseless speculation sure to please everyone…or not. Later, they are joined by musician Dan O’Farrell, who performs his self-penned tune, “Zeppo Speaks”.

Matthew and Noah share a few of the most perplexing Marx Brothers mysteries they've encountered in their research, which have remained unsolved despite considerable effort. No, this episode is not about Humor Risk or the manicurist. But Matthew will walk you down winding paths of confusion regarding the authorship of The Big Store and Double Dynamite, and Noah will call your attention to a Marx Bros. Scrapbook anomaly that can only be explained ridiculously.

Piggybacking on Robert Bader’s superb “Groucho & Cavett” documentary, we are joined by Brett Leveridge, Marxfest co-host and house manager for Noah’s “I’ll Say She Is” revival, for an in-depth look at more of Groucho’s late-career talk and game show appearances. Groucho’s wonderfully disruptive guest shots on “What’s My Line?” “The Tonight Show” and “The Dating Game” are dissected, as well as his surprisingly serious and thoughtful debate with William F. Buckley, Jr. on “Firing Line.” We also examine Groucho’s fascinating “Dick Cavett Show” encounter with Dan Rowan. …and don’t worry; all of these clips are available for viewing on our blog at marxbrotherscouncilpodcast.com In addition, Brett tells his backstory of becoming a Marx fan in Oklahoma City, and we pay tribute to the late Richard J. Anobile.

With Matthew and Nick’s book, “The Annotated Abbott & Costello” hitting the shelves, it is the perfect time to discuss the duo’s appeal, or sometimes lack thereof, to Marx Brothers fans. We almost entitled this ep, “Nick & Matthew Meet the Skeptic: Noah Diamond” as he has been resistant to Abbott & Costello’s charms so far. The guys put Noah to the test with choice clips to gauge his reaction (sorry folks, no “Who’s on First?”). Will his preconceptions be shattered? The guys also discuss the differences between the two teams, try to decipher exactly what is going on in Bud Abbott’s head...and wonder if Bud, in fact, was the funnier of the pair. We know you’ll enjoy this as sure as 7 x 13 = 28.

Director/writer/producer Brian Levant (“Happy Days” “Beethoven” “The Flintstones” “Still The Beaver”) discusses his Marx-inspired career and new book “My Life and Toys”; a compilation of photos of his memorabilia collection…including unique Marx Brothers and classic comedy items. Brian recalls his discovery of the team under trying circumstances, his two first-hand encounters with Groucho, and the time when George Fenneman met Fonzie! Brian also gives his thoughts on each Marx film…and where they went astray. And stay tuned after the end song for details on our upcoming Patreon venture, and the special rewards that could be yours.

Film educator Hannah Mira returns for a deep dive into Susan Fleming Marx’s long-awaited memoir, brought to fruition by Robert Bader.

We’re taking the month off from our normal festivities, but here’s an important update on our plans going forward, followed by a resolution to a “Room Service” mystery.

Our final plunge into the official Marx canon brings us to “Animal Crackers” and Bob’s favorite non-manicuring gal, Heidi, joins us for the ride. Your hosts have made no secret that this stands atop their ranking of Marx films, and here we go in-depth why…while also admitting it’s not really a good film at all. We discuss the differences with the original Broadway play, and compare the movie to their maiden film voyage, “The Cocoanuts”. We laud “Animal Crackers” stellar writing, supporting cast, and even the sets, but have nary a good word for Art Garfunkel…or whatever his name is. So, if you can stand a couple of hours of us slobbering over this film, you’re in for a treat.

A look at the Marx Brothers’ relationship with intellectuals, focusing on Harpo’s friendship with writer Alexander Woollcott. Council member and Woollcott authority Brad Sohlo joins us to decipher just why sophisticates were attracted to the team...and not always vice versa. Brad explains why it was the carefree Harpo and not the well-read Groucho who was embraced by the Algonquin Round Table. We discuss what Woollcott and Harpo saw in each other and why their curious friendship endured. And if you’re worried that the conversation may be too high-brow, don’t worry, we’re treated to typical ‘Harpo gets naked’ stories…

With the imminent arrival of Susan Marx’s memoir, “Speaking of Harpo”, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the (not) mute, (not) red-haired, (not) second-born, (not) Adolph Marx. Noah leads an examination of both the man and character, including the invaluable “Harpo Speaks”. We look at the evolution of his stage and screen persona, speculate if Harpo could have succeeded on his own, and explore the passion for his namesake instrument. We then have some fun giving Harpo “hot takes,” before naming our favorite performances and other oddities. You’ll be left speechless. Name dropped in this episode: Steve Carrell, Bernie Goldstein, Richard Kiel

Not a fan of the Marx Brothers' “Go West”? Wish it had been written by the guys behind “Duck Soup”? Well, that was the original plan. Acclaimed screenwriter Scott Alexander returns to help us examine the film’s early scripts, as penned by the legendary team of Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby. Groucho as a leering divorce lawyer, Chico as a phony fortune teller, Harpo chasing women and actually acting like Harpo...who couldn’t love that? Apparently, MGM couldn’t; as they eventually changed everything...including the century in which the film takes place. Scott gives us a screenwriter's perspective on what happened, theorizes why Kalmar, Ruby, and their work were discarded…and portrays Margaret Dumont in a possible career-changing turn. Need we say more?

WARNING: The following podcast contains explicit descriptions of subpar screenwriting, overwrought direction, and all-around lousy filmmaking. ———————————————— Admittedly not our favorite Marx Brothers film, but one we sure had fun talking about. We explore whether the problem is the material or just our expectations. We ask if the road tour actually helped, why they switched Dan Wilsons, and how come MGM didn’t spend $4000 to save $50,000. Along the way, we are joined by the late June MacCloy, who played the whore Lulubelle, with juicy excerpts from a 1999 interview. Like prospectors in the old west, we sift thru the dreck to find nuggets of gold…or in this case, smaller pieces of dreck. Expect our trademark misguided insight and lame sarcasm peppered with way too many references to the Three Stooges.

This month the guys examine the directors of each of the Marx Brothers’ films. From Dick Smith of Humor Risk to The Incredible Jewel Robbery’s Mitchell Leisen, they discuss each director’s qualifications, and (Humor Risk aside) whether they elevated the material, brought their own perspectives, or simply stayed out of the way. Matthew provides detailed and often surprising biographical info, while Noah highlights specific moments where the directors shined—as well as the work of Edward Buzzell.

If you prefer your film history told alphabetically, then this is the episode for you! Glenn Mitchell, author of The Marx Brothers Encyclopedia, as well as similar volumes on Laurel & Hardy and Charlie Chaplin, joins us to not only tell the story of his fact-based books, but also grace us with some actual opinions. We learn his favorite Marx films, his least favorites, and the one he likes but can’t sit all the way through. Glenn details the genesis of his encyclopedia format, why the books eventually stopped, and what the next one would have been. He reveals rare discoveries made in the days of pre-internet research, as well as his take on the current state of Marx fandom…including an encounter with a guy who couldn’t comprehend the team’s name. Glenn also touches on the uncut version of “Horse Feathers,” answers questions from the Facebook group, and gives a surprising answer to Bob's predictable manicurist inquiry.

We are joined by self-proclaimed Muppet geek and co-host of the “Movin’ Right Along” podcast, Anthony Strand, for a look at two of Groucho’s solo efforts, “Double Dynamite” and “A Girl in Every Port. Despite the episode’s title, we think these films are just fine…where else can you see the world’s greatest comedian and the world’s greatest singer do a duet on a treadmill, or watch the dad from “Hazel” cheat on the sister of Groucho’s future wife. Along the way, we dump on Jane Russell, exalt Marie Wilson, and somehow claim Frank Sinatra is miscast as a character who’s described as looking like Frank Sinatra. So, if you want to learn who ‘Icy Knockers’ is, or the only performer besides Groucho to appear in both films, join us…you’re as sick as we are.

A supersized deep dive into “You Bet Your Life.” First, Marx Brotherhood founder Jay Hopkins joins us to talk about the origins of the series, its unique and sometimes controversial way of production, and how Groucho wanted and needed to evolve from his screen persona. We also discuss the show’s most famous moment…which likely didn’t happen at all. Later, we are treated to a never-before-heard interview (and scrumptious meal) with Jay and “You Bet Your Life” head writer Bernie Smith from 1979. Bernie gives a frank firsthand account of working on the show, and isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers…including the duck’s.

Two Jews and an Brit celebrate Christmas and ring in the new year with our Marx Brothers hot takes! We like a film that most don’t, dis a famous artist, and suggest changes that will make you dance barefoot in our lemonade. And as a special treat, Noah tells how he risked his sanity and marriage to prepare for this episode. So, if you want to hear well-developed opinions combined with half-baked ideas, you’ve come to the right place! Name dropped in this episode: Richard Pryor, Rudolf Nureyev, Danny Kaye

Adam Gopnik, New Yorker writer and editor of “S.J. Perelman: Writings” joins us for an exhaustive look at the Marx Brothers’ 1932 classic, “Horse Feathers.” Adam discusses Perelman’s influence and tries to pinpoint his specific lines, Noah is skeptical that “Horse Feathers” owes anything to the brothers’ vaudeville school act, Matthew keeps track of the differences between the film and shooting script, while Bob constantly derails the conversation with trivial observations. Singing the film’s praises, we can’t help but lament the mangled version history has left us with…we talk about what’s missing and why. We also touch upon Chico’s limp, Thelma Todd’s traveling birthmark, and how Harpo isn’t a mime at all. Discussion more than twice the length of the movie with 1/10th the entertainment value!

Renowned film writer Nell Minow joins us to discuss her longtime love affair with the Marxes, her first-hand encounters with two of the brothers, her famous dad’s round of golf with another, and her grandmother’s friendship with two of their spouses! Nell also details the origin and mission of her “Movie Mom” franchise , and discusses the difficulty in getting young people to watch and appreciate classic films these days. You’ll learn the surprising connection between Nell and one of your hosts, as well as what she has in common with Andy Marx…and perhaps John Tefteller…and maybe even Steve Stoliar. A snappy, commute-sized episode! Name dropped in this podcast: Marlo Thomas, William F. Buckley, Superman

This month, we take a deep dive into Richard J. Anobile’s controversial work from 1973, “The Marx Brothers Scrapbook”. Joining us is performer/writer/director Nick Santa Maria, who (like Bob) got the book when it first came out, has some deep insight, and (like Groucho) eye-opening opinions. We examine Groucho’s shocking and explicit comments, his mindset, and inconsistent cooperation. We discuss the Scrapbook’s other interviews, which are almost as provocative as Groucho’s…and often more informative. Later, we delve into the firestorm of controversy which greeted the book upon publication. We pay sincere tribute to Anobile, for his persistence and thick skin, and we lament Zeppo, who comes across as the sourest (and unfunniest) person on Earth. NOTE: “The Marx Brothers Scrapbook” contains very explicit language, and we oft-times quote or paraphrase passages, so be aware that this episode is not for sensitive listeners.

And now for something completely different... We are joined by educator Hannah Mira, who details her fascinating story of screening Marx Brothers (and other classic) films for incarcerated teenagers, and their surprisingly positive response. A lifelong Marx fan, Hannah uses the brothers’ antics not only as entertainment, but as a springboard to introspection. We learn what the most popular gags and scenes are with her students, as well as whom their favorite brother is (spoiler: it ain’t Zeppo). Hannah also tells of a surprising encounter with a Harpo painting. We really like this one and hope you will too.

We are honored to welcome Steve Stoliar, author of the iconic “Raised Eyebrows: My Years Inside Groucho’s House”. Outspoken as ever, Steve is as entertaining as he is candid. But what do you ask a guy who’s been interviewed on just about every podcast known to man (including ours)? Well, we didn’t know either, so we farmed the questions out to our loyal listeners. Steve updates us on the “Raised Eyebrows” movie, and you won’t believe who stays up at night thinking about the casting. He further details life with Erin Fleming, and Groucho’s taste in music, movies, and tv…including a trip to a rock concert. And if you’ve ever wondered what happens when Steve and DIck Cavett get together with a whoopee cushion, wonder no longer! To get a personally autographed copy of "Raised Eyebrows", go to stevestoliar.com/shop

An in-depth report on Marxfest 2024 with two of Noah’s co-organizers, Kathy Biehl and Jonny Porkpie. Detailing each event, they share stories of the fans, presenters and performers who made it an unforgettable time. We’ll also share some choice audio clips. Along the way, you’ll learn the real reason why Groucho didn’t appear on “Welcome Back Kotter”, and hear Josh Max's McCartney-esque version of the “Love Happy” theme. In addition, we are thrilled to present three exclusive Marx Brothers radio excerpts provided by John Tefteller. These clips, from presumed-lost radio shows, premiered at the fest and will be featured in John’s upcoming release of restored Marx radio appearances, available (hopefully) later this year.

A look at the Marx Brothers final film, 1949's "Love Happy"... The brothers search for jewels as we search for laughs…and though it’s not top-tier Marx, there is still plenty to enjoy as well as plenty to ponder. Matthew tells how Chico agreed to appear in a Harpo solo film before Harpo did, Noah is baffled by how the jewels got into a sealed sardine can, and Bob goes off on Marilyn Monroe. You’ll learn about the two versions of the film, and why the shorter, less funny one is most likely what you’ve seen. You’ll learn why Groucho and Chico never appear onscreen together…but you won’t learn what those penguins are saying. Seriously, it’s not a bad film…wish we could promise the same about this podcast.

You want to see Groucho as an over-protective father, Harpo hiding in a Coke machine, or Chico trying to pass himself off as Harpo? Well, you’ve come to the right place as we dissect Shout Factory’s DVD set featuring Marx TV appearances from the ‘50s thru the ‘70s. We uncover the many treasures, failures, and sublime moments this collection offers to Marx fans, including Groucho’s rebooting of You Bet Your Life in 1960’s England, Harpo’s lead role in a Twilight Zone-like drama, and Chico’s two short-lived series…both of which were actually pretty good. We’ll also dive into the set’s gathering of Marx family home movies, as well as the super rare bonus disc…which may include the best (and worst) clips of all! Don’t miss this show, unless you want to hear good things about Minnesota Fats… NOTE: North American fans can access many of these clips and shows for free on shoutfactorytv.com

ACTOR AND VOICE ARTIST EDDIE DEEZEN (GREASE, 1941, WAR GAMES) JOINS US FOR AN INDESCRIBABLE 90 MINUTES OF FREE WHEELING AND POTENTIALLY LITIGIOUS TALK ABOUT THE MARX BROTHERS. EDDIE RANKS THE MARX FILMS, OBSESSES ON CHICO’S SEXUAL PROWESS, AND GENERALLY TRIES TO STEER THE CONVERSATION TOWARDS THE BEATLES, MARTIN & LEWIS, AND THREE STOOGES WHENEVER POSSIBLE. EDDIE’S UNIQUE TAKE ON THE BROTHERS, PLUS SOME MIND-BOGGLING THEORIES, MAKE FOR UNFORGETTABLE LISTENING. *Our apologies that Eddie's audio is not up to our usual standards, we worked hard to make it sound as best we could.

An addendum to our “A Night in Casablanca” deep dive (episode 33), Joe Adamson, author of “Groucho, Harpo, Chico and Sometimes Zeppo”, joins us for a further look. Comparing the finished film to the original script and studio call sheets, Joe theorizes on why changes were made, tantalizes us with scenes which didn’t make the cut, and even mourns a few moments that remain. Not joining us for this episode: Scott Alexander.

Noted screenwriter and Marx devotee Scott Alexander returns, this time for a deep dive into “The Howl Raiser of 1946”, A Night in Casablanca. The Marxes' screen comeback after five years was a triumph both artistically and financially, though not really appreciated until recent decades. With sharper writing and surprising moments of surrealism, it almost feels like a return to Paramount…but, as we point out, the Thalberg softening of the team was still in evidence. We detail our first experiences with the film, point out plot discrepancies, note classic lines, and most importantly, realize the Marxes could defeat the Nazis even without Zeppo. And as a bonus, The Not Ready For Online Players return for two more deleted scene recreations… WARNING: This episode contains explicit language.

Our deep dive into 1972’s "An Evening With Groucho" LP, and his historic, yet bittersweet, performance at Carnegie Hall. To be frank, we’re as conflicted about this as you probably are…Groucho finally gets the late-in-life showcase he craved and obviously deserved, but perhaps a bit too late for him to take full advantage of. We point out the triumphs, tragedies, and missed opportunities that Groucho dealt with in 1972, culminating with this hit album. We detail favorite moments as well as our disparate experiences first hearing this LP, and whether it is a piece of entertainment, a piece of history, or both...

Imagine a Marx Brothers-like film in 1992, now imagine a really good Marx Brothers-like film in 1992…well, imagine no longer because such a movie actually exists, "Brain Donors". Created by the team behind "Airplane!" and "The Naked Gun", "Brain Donors" achieved everything it set out to do…except find an audience. To explain why, we are joined by producer David Zucker and screenwriter Pat Proft, both life-long Marx fans. They detail the making of the film, including the casting of John Turturro as the Groucho-inspired Roland T. Flakfizer. David and Pat also discuss the Hollywood politics that derailed what could have been a series of faux-Marx films. Surely, one of our most requested topics… Name-checked in this episode: Jason Alexander, Bob Costas, Senator Joseph McCarthy

A holiday extravaganza because we say it is! Actor/writer Nick Santa Maria returns for an examination of the Marxes’ two principal writing teams, George S. Kaufman & Morrie Ryskind, and Bert Kalmar & Harry Ruby. We compare their styles and strengths, and go off on numerous unrelated tangents. But first, we detour to Kalmar & Ruby’s original vision for the finale of “A Night at the Opera”, featuring another performance by The Not Ready For Online Players...augmented by Kathy Biehl and Pete Lutz. Name-checked in this episode: Parkyakarkus, Carroll O’Connor (twice), Paul Harvey WARNING: Due to Matthew’s overly-festive mood, this episode contains a moment of adult language.

In our NEW longest episode yet, we welcome Groucho’s grandson, Andy Marx, for a deep dive into “A Night at the Opera”, and a whole lot more… Andy recalls growing up with Groucho during the time he went from being a game show host to a legend. We learn about his curious connection to rock stars and speculate on his politics. We also hear about Andy’s other famous grandfather. Finally (at 28:40), we turn our attention to what most Marx fans agree is their first film for MGM. We try and make sense out of why this reinvention of the team works so well…all while doing the unbearable nitpicking we have become famous for! Name-checked in this episode: Elton John, Richard Nixon, Scott Alexander

“The Marx Brothers Miscellany” is not only the name of a new book by our guest, Trav SD, it also aptly describes this episode. We engage in a free-wheeling discussion of numerous Marx topics, including their Vaudeville roots, how Gummo’s role in the act and family differed from Zeppo’s, and whether the Marxes are really the greatest comedy team. We also discuss the Algonquin Round Table’s place in Marx lore, and Trav details how he helped Noah bring “I’ll Say She Is” back to life in 2014.

In our longest episode yet, we barely scratch the surface while talking to archivist John Tefteller. John has spent more than four decades accumulating rare Marx Brothers audio, and is producing a collection of the long-lost radio series “Flywheel, Shyster and Flywheel”. John details how, as a high school sophomore, he was hired to be Groucho’s personal recording engineer and archivist. His stories of rare finds, heartbreaking misses, and colorful personalities will entertain you more than we ever did. You’ll even get to hear about John’s days as a teenage relationship counselor to Zeppo, and then Erin Fleming. Yes, your three hosts are present…but about as much as the Marxes are in “The Story of Mankind” Name-checked in this episode: Bill, Clinton, Perry Como, Ed Begley, Jr.

In our final trip into the vault, we are treated to Jay’s never-before-heard 1984 chat with writer Nat Perrin. Perrin talks about his 50 year association with the Marxes, from contributing gags to “Monkey Business” all the way to Erin Fleming’s legal challenge to Groucho’s estate. You’ll hear about Nat’s work on the “Flywheel, Shyster and Flywheel” radio series, and his later contributions to “Go West” and “The Big Store”. Perrin also discusses some of his non-Marx films and later TV work.

In the spirit of the great comedy compilation films of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, we’ve decided to create our own “Best of the Marx Brothers” money-grab. To be precise, the three of us have each compiled our own films…hamstrung by the constraints of our in-house Irving Thalberg. We’ll discuss our scene choices and come up with a final tracklist, all before realizing the whole exercise was pointless. Did your favorite scene make the cut? Listen and find out, unless you’re an Eve Arden fan, in which case don’t even bother…. Name-checked in this episode: W.C. Fields, Kristen Schaal, Jay Hopkins

Our long overdue look at the definitive Marx Brothers documentary, with special guests, producer/meme Robert B. Weide, and writer/editor Joe Adamson. The guys take us on Nutshell’s long journey, full of roadblocks and last minute scrambling. How did they get both Paramount and MGM clips when told it was impossible? Why did PBS viewers not see Woody Allen, and no one see Betty Marx? What happens when you ask Gene Kelly to do a retake? These and other questions you never asked will all be answered... Oh, and if you want to watch “The Marx Brothers in a Nutshell” before listening, you can purchase a dvd at: http://duckprods.com/store.html Name-checked in this episode: Kurt Vonnegut, Lauren Bacall, Mort Sahl