'The Great Schnozzola' hosts a fabulous party at his mansion as part of a scheme to buy real lions (from Baron Munchausen no less) for his star character 'Schnarzan' to fight. The party is just an excuse to showcase a number of MGM stars (some of whom are still well known, some of whom are now obscure). Highlights are Ted Healy and Three Stooges being considered as examples of human evolution, Mickey Mouse (voiced by Walt Disney) introducing 'The Hot Choc-late Soldiers' - a surreal Techicolour musical cartoon, Laurel and Hardy swapping eggs with Lupe Velez, and a surprisingly well-done 'fight' between Durante and a lion. Needless-to-say, there are lots of nose jokes, including a hilarious sight gag about reincarnation in which Durante's role in the American Revolution is profiled. One look at Lupe Velez's thigh-barring gown (and fur pasties (!) in the 'Schnarzan' bit) proves that this is a pre-code comedy (as does the silhouette shot of a young woman getting dressed). Typical of the era and genre, there are some extravagant dance numbers (impressive), songs (not as impressive), and broad humour (some of which is still funny). Not great but worth watching for the highlights.
Review of Hollywood Party
