{"product_id":"duck-soup","title":"Duck Soup","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eDuck Soup is widely considered the Marx Brothers' masterpiece, a satirical masterpiece of dictatorship and government. J. Hoberman's study traces its reputation history, from its initial disappointment to its rise to cult status in the 1960s. It is now recognized as a touchstone for Woody Allen and the Library of Congress. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\n                                                            \u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Paperback \/ softback\u003cbr\u003e\n                              \u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 104 pages\u003cbr\u003e\n                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 07 October 2021\u003cbr\u003e\n                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: British Film Institute\u003cbr\u003e\n                          \u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Marx Brothers are widely regarded as the epitome of classic Hollywood comedy, and their masterpiece, Duck Soup, is considered a timeless satire of dictatorship and government. Initially, the film met with critical failure and commercial disappointment upon its release in 1933. However, over time, it has gained a cult following, particularly in the 1960s when the Marxs' anarchic and anti-establishment humor resonated with audiences once again. J. Hoberman's comprehensive study delves into the film's reputation history, tracing its journey from initial disappointment to its eventual elevation to comedic masterpiece.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHoberman situates Duck Soup alongside other notable comedies such as Dr. Strangelove (1964), the Beatles films, Morgan! (1966), The President's Analyst (1967), and The Producers (1968). He argues that these films share a common theme of political satire and humor, and Duck Soup stands out as a touchstone for director Mel Brooks and actor Woody Allen.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn his analysis, Hoberman provides a historical and political context for the film, exploring the social and cultural conditions of the time. He emphasizes the director's prior work, particularly with the Marx Brothers, as well as the situation at Paramount Pictures, where the film was produced. The synopsis offers a detailed account of the plot, characters, and memorable scenes, while also shedding light on the initial reception of the film.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHoberman's study concludes with a compelling argument that Duck Soup deserves its status as a comic masterpiece. He analyzes the film's craftsmanship, humor, and social commentary, highlighting its ability to transcend time and remain relevant to modern audiences. He also discusses the film's influence on subsequent comedy and its place in cinematic history.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOverall, Hoberman's analysis is a valuable contribution to the study of film and comedy. It provides a deep understanding of Duck Soup's reputation history, its production, and its lasting impact on the genre. Whether you are a fan of the Marx Brothers or a cinema enthusiast, this study is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of satire and the enduring legacy of classic Hollywood comedy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\n                            \u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 164g\n                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 135 x 190 x 11 (mm)\n                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9781839022258\n                            \n                          \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"J.Hoberman","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":44094166139130,"sku":"9781839022258","price":10.82,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/a258637a237d2912c2fc46441ad073dc.jpg?v=1635827745","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/duck-soup","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}