County Hospital (film)

Countyhospitaltitlecard

County Hospital is a short comedy film released in 1932, starring the iconic duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Directed by James Parrott and produced by Hal Roach, the film is part of the larger body of work featuring Laurel and Hardy, who are among the most famous and enduring comedy teams in Hollywood history. County Hospital stands out as a classic example of the duo's slapstick humor and comedic timing.

Plot

The film opens with Oliver Hardy laid up in a hospital with a broken leg. Stan Laurel comes to visit him, bringing a gift of hard-boiled eggs and nuts, despite the hospital's dietary restrictions for patients. The visit quickly turns chaotic as Laurel's attempts to be helpful result in a series of comedic disasters. The situation escalates when Laurel accidentally sends Hardy's bed careening through the hospital and out into the street, leading to a wild and humorous chase sequence. The film concludes with the duo's typical mishap-laden humor, leaving audiences in stitches.

Cast

• Stan Laurel as Stan
• Oliver Hardy as Ollie
• Billy Gilbert as The Doctor
• May Wallace as The Nurse
• William Austin as The Visiting Specialist

Production

County Hospital was filmed during a period when Laurel and Hardy were at the peak of their popularity. The production was helmed by James Parrott, a director known for his work on short comedy films, particularly those starring Laurel and Hardy. The film's humor relies heavily on physical comedy and situational gags, a hallmark of Laurel and Hardy's films. The hospital setting provides a perfect backdrop for the duo's antics, allowing for a variety of comedic situations to unfold.

Reception

Upon its release, County Hospital was well-received by audiences and critics alike. It is often cited as one of Laurel and Hardy's best short films. The chemistry between Laurel and Hardy, combined with the film's clever gags and slapstick humor, has made it a timeless classic. It continues to be celebrated for its comedic value and is frequently included in compilations and retrospectives of the duo's work.

Legacy

The legacy of County Hospital extends beyond its initial reception. It is considered an important work in the canon of early American comedy films, showcasing the comedic genius of Laurel and Hardy. The film has been studied for its use of physical comedy and timing, as well as its influence on subsequent generations of comedians and filmmakers. County Hospital remains a beloved classic, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Laurel and Hardy's comedy.