The Marx Brothers Council Podcast

This month the guys examine the directors of each of the Marx Brothers’ films. From Dick Smith of Humor Risk to The Incredible Jewel Robbery’s Mitchell Leisen, they discuss each director’s qualifications, and (Humor Risk aside) whether they elevated the material, brought their own perspectives, or simply stayed out of the way.

Matthew provides detailed and often surprising biographical info, while Noah highlights specific moments where the directors shined—as well as the work of Edward Buzzell.

An in-depth report on Marxfest 2024 with two of Noah’s co-organizers, Kathy Biehl and Jonny Porkpie. Detailing each event, they share stories of the fans, presenters and performers who made it an unforgettable time. We’ll also share some choice audio clips.

Along the way, you’ll learn the real reason why Groucho didn’t appear on “Welcome Back Kotter”, and hear Josh Max's McCartney-esque version of the “Love Happy” theme.

In addition, we are thrilled to present three exclusive Marx Brothers radio excerpts provided by John Tefteller. These clips, from presumed-lost radio shows, premiered at the fest and will be featured in John’s upcoming release of restored Marx radio appearances, available (hopefully) later this year.

“The Marx Brothers Miscellany” is not only the name of a new book by our guest, Trav SD, it also aptly describes this episode. We engage in a free-wheeling discussion of numerous Marx topics, including their Vaudeville roots, how Gummo’s role in the act and family differed from Zeppo’s, and whether the Marxes are really the greatest comedy team.

We also discuss the Algonquin Round Table’s place in Marx lore, and Trav details how he helped Noah bring “I’ll Say She Is” back to life in 2014.

In between episodes, Noah pops in with a few words about MARXFEST, coming to New York City in May of 2024. Tickets and information at marxfest.org.

Well, this one doesn’t need much explanation, does it?

Muppeteer Eric Jacobson and writer/producer/historian Craig Shemin join us for a look at the intersection of the worlds of the Marx Brothers and the Muppets. We discuss their shared roots in the Vaudeville stage, their utilization of music, and their mutual delight in creating mayhem for mayhem’s sake.

Eric and Craig also detail their efforts to evolve and modernize the iconic characters while staying true to their Jim Henson heritage, and Noah once again has to defend his criticism of the Punch and Judy scene from “Monkey Business”.

A deep dive into Maxine Marx’s 1980 biography of her father, “Growing Up With Chico”.

Matthew and Noah discuss the book’s honesty in taking on Chico’s self-centered lifestyle, while also portraying him in a sympathetic and loving manner. They point out discrepancies in anecdotes told by Maxine as compared to other sources, and are surprised by her willingness to express raw feelings about the rest of the family.

Mostly though, the guys enjoy the details that help fill in the cracks of the story of the most interesting, yet elusive brother.

A VERY special episode as we are joined by TV writer, comedian, and Council member Mike Rowe to premiere a previously unheard 1967 interview with Groucho, conducted by the infamous film collector and distributor, Raymond Rohauer.

Noah, Matthew, and Mike discuss the interview’s numerous departures from oft-told Marx lore, including Minnie’s importance to their rise and how the team transitioned from a musical act to a comedic one. We learn which film Groucho thinks is their worst, and what later-effort gets a surprisingly glowing reaction from him.

Mike tells of his introduction to the Marx films and his start in the world of comedy, including working with Henny Youngman and Rodney Dangerfield. We get the creation story of his ‘lost’ Marx Brothers film "Donkey Shines,” and Mike details meeting the enigmatic Rohauer, who entrusted him with the tape of his Groucho interview.

Groucho’s 1959’s autobiography, “Groucho and Me” is delved into, featuring the world’s most renowned impressionist of the man, Frank Ferrante.

The guys question if the book is truly an autobiography or just a collection of entertaining half-truths. They note the moments of humility and surprising self-awareness by Groucho, while noting that what is left out is as telling as what is included. Frank details how he’s mined the book over the years to keep his one-man show fresh, and talks about the joy of bringing Groucho to life as well as his plans for the future.

Reading “Groucho and Me” is not a prerequisite for enjoying the discussion, as the guys examine the man as much as what’s in the book.

A busy two-fold episode. First the guys deep dive into the world of Marx Brothers movie trailers, exploring their sometimes puzzling approaches, noting unique footage or dialogue, and lamenting those that are missing...one of which we get big news about in mid-show! To follow along, you can view all the trailers at: https://youtu.be/j2jbuHNeyZo

Then (at 1:07:00), actor/writer Jerry Sroka joins the podcast to discuss his new semi-autobiographical film, “Our Almost Completely True Love Story” in which he plays a Marx Brothers fanatic who courts actress Mariette Hartley. Jerry details the genesis of the film, which is laden with Marx references, as well as his real-life marriage to Mariette. He also recalls some hilarious personal and professional encounters with Woody Allen.

This month the guys look at two films with historically-important Marx appearances that were restored and released on a 2020 Blu-ray…now do you get the title?

First, Matthew and Noah dissect Harpo’s brief supporting turn in the obscure 1925 silent romantic-comedy “Too Many Kisses”. They speculate on how Harpo came to be in the film and point out nuances in his performance that show the Harpo we know and love.

Then they examine the ‘Theatrical Agency’ scene from the 1931 Paramount promotional film “The House That Shadows Built”. The guys discuss the circumstances which led them to shoot a skit that pre-dates “I’ll Say She Is”, and wonder if it’s Zeppo’s greatest performance.