Sunday, March 17, 2013

Classic Kids, Day One:  A Night at the Opera  

For 100 days, I will pick 100 classic films, that kids must see before they are 13 or else.   



     My daughters, Joelle and Jacqueline, were raised on all of the Marx brothers films.  This one though, "Night at the Opera" is perfection.  Surprised by the pick?  Well, as a parent, I wanted my children to delight in the absurd, and what better place to stimulate that than with this movie?  Joelle and jacqueline enjoyed this at a young age, but perhaps you might want to wait until the kid in your life is...well...maybe nine or so.  Although, kids will not understand most  of the fast-paced dialogue, don't worry; because it is the physical antics that are so beautiful, silly and joyful.   If you want your children to grow up appreciating the absurdities in life, then start them out-
when you feel it is safe- with the Marx brothers.  Samuel Beckett can come later.

 Stuff to talk about: Vaudeville, Jewish tradition in comedy, depression-era films, gender roles, talkies, types of humor/comedy.

 Things to ask:  Why is this/that funny?  When do you think this was made?  What makes these men stand out?


Posted by at

5 comments:

  1. UnknownMarch 17, 2013 at 10:14 AM

    Honorable mention "Duck Soup" from my pal, Barb Xistris.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dan SmithMarch 17, 2013 at 10:59 AM

    I'm so happy you're raising your children well. Our kids (hardly kids anymore) were also raised on the Marx Brothers. When our son was 10 or so he dressed up like Groucho for Halloween and was crushed that no one (including his teacher) knew who he was. All the best, Dan

    ReplyDelete
  3. What i dig:)March 17, 2013 at 9:17 PM

    i think they were so funny cause we are all so odd and do small things occasionally that they do constantly and then we pay more attention to them and it's super funny....but then they keep a straight face which makes it even better!! my guess it was made in mmmmm 1943? i'm glad you're doing this juli!! this will be alot of fun!!!:)

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownMarch 21, 2013 at 11:45 AM

    John Jon, Love this reply, sorry I didn't see it sooner. The year was 1935. How we need them now! But, I think Tina Fey and the gang are doing some great insanity.

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownApril 9, 2013 at 2:11 PM

    Like · · Share
    Jeff Caplan, Marianne Benforado and Saul Glazer like this.

    Ann Goth Love the blog! I will have to watch some of these movies!!

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)