Paramount assembled a top cast of comedians of the day for "College Holiday," and added some music and dance to go with it. I don't recall any other film that has three actresses playing zany brainless characters. Billie Burke was the hands-down best at this role - never failing to get many guffaws for her lines in so many wonderful comedies. But this film has three actresses who offer their own versions of befuddlement.
Gracie Allen is the queen of the nonsensical, here playing Calliope 'Gracie' Dove. Mary Boland offers her talents at silliness as Carola P. Gaye and Martha Raye plays the goofy Daisy Schloggenheimer.
But, of course, some men have their comedic roles, headed by Jack Benny as J. Davis Bowster. And, where would Gracie be without hubby George Burns, here playing George Hymen? Ben Blue is the quirky Stage Hand who offers the silly antics he was known for, and Etienne Girardot is a wacky eugenicist, Prof .Hercules Dove.
The film is filled with young folks who sing and dance a few numbers -- in between trying to steal kisses. The story is about as wacky as the variety of characters that make up the cast. The screenplay is good and the cast are all good. Except for Gracie's incomprehensible lines and the silly ones of the other actresses, the script has very little funny dialog. Most of the comedy is provided by antics and situations.
This is a fun film that most people even in the 21st century should enjoy. Here are some favorite lines.
Dick Winters, "Well, how can I ask your father for your hand in marriage if I don't know his name? Sylvia Smith: "Well, I'll tell ya. It's the same as mine."
Dick Winters, "Miss Smith, California. Yeah, that's gonna be easy..."
J. David Bowster, "Uh, have you any other children, professor... at large, I mean?"
J. David Bowster, "Say, you know, you speak pretty good French." Stage Hand, "Is that what that is?"
