Why a Duck?

I bought Why a Duck?: Visual and Verbal Gems from the Marx Brothers Movies, edited by Richard J. Anobile, in 1973 and I have read it numerous times over the last 39+ years. For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed the Marx Brothers. To me, Groucho Marx was a comedic genius in both a visual and witty-dialogue sense. Likewise, Groucho’s brother Harpo, who did not speak in the Marx Brothers movies, and his brother Chico, were both gifted comedic actors. Their brother Zeppo also appeared in non-comedic roles in the first four movies covered in this book (listed below). Why a Duck? presents photographs made from actual movie-frame blow-ups and printed dialogue from segments of eight Marx Brothers movies. Anobile selected wonderfully show more entertaining sequences from the movies, which enable the reader to enjoy these hilarious comedic actors in book form. The book includes significant photo/written-dialogue sequences from the following movies: The Cocoanuts (1929), Monkey Business (1931), Horse Feathers (1932), Duck Soup (1933), A Night at the Opera (1935), and A Day at the Races (1937). It also provides a smidgen of sequences from At the Circus (1939), Go West (1940), and The Big Store (1941). It also includes an introduction by Groucho. Again, I have read this book numerous times over the years. Every time I read almost any part of Why a Duck?, it makes me laugh out loud. Of course, I highly recommend seeing the movies, but you can get a quick hit of laughter anytime by reading even small sections of this book. show less

Thank goodness for the Marx Brothers. Is it any wonder that Groucho was blackballed during the McCarthy Era? Who'll it be next? Will we enter the Charlie McCarthy Era where ONLY dummies will be allowed to talk?

This is like a graphic novel, only with movie stills for the art. Odd but fun.

With some historical background and an introduction by Groucho, this is actually a pictorial filmography with dialogue from the movies interspersed throughout. Why a duck is for the avid Marx Brothers fan who will completely understand why the particular dialogues were chosen. If you are a fan of the Brothers you will absolutely enjoy this book. As the back of the book says, "A book of verbal and visual gems from the Marx Brothers films". Ok so you tell me Viaduct?

A filmography of one of my favorite comedy teams, The Marx Brothers. Well-illustrated with photographs, but very little annotation, as the bulk of the book consists of movie stills and lines. Still a fine book for the true Marx Brothers fan.

Still photos and dialogue from the Marx Brothers' movies. Useful examples of humor, especially the "Why a Duck?" routine, for classes.

Always a great read when you need a good laugh.