In comparison to the 1959 musical, this non-musical 1940 version seemed closer to the comic strip in ways the musical missed.
There was more of a feeling of shut-off from society in the 1940 film. Granville Owen was far better than Peter Palmer in '59.
Mammy bathing Pappy Yokum is a scene to behold all on its own. Granted the performers probably didn't need the makeup tho, as Granny Scragg did indeed make for a memorable character with no facial makeup.
Always nice to see Buster Keaton.
The very first person we would see was Daisy Mae (in bed, no less), so clearly there was supposed to be some launching of a screen beauty here.
This movie would make better use of the dregs of Dogpatch society, such as Fantastic Brown's wife saying it is time for his bath.
We also see Abijah Gooch (always liked that name) and Hannibal Hoops.
By far one of the best lines must be when Hairless Joe proclaims about the ten dollar reward for Earthquake McGoon, "ain't that much money in all tarnation!"
Peter Palmer may have been able to sing better, but Granville Owen got the character down much better.
The actor who portrayed Earthquake McGoon here would be the actual wrestler who inspired the character in the comic strip. Using the term 'actor' loosely, as he really didn't offer much of a performance.
This movie would have none of Capp's 'satirical humor' in it, but if the musical contained any of the strip's statements, it really didnt shine through there either.
