The Big Noise

Synopsis

The Big Noise is a 1944 American comedy film starring Stan Laurel, directed by Malcolm St. Clair. The story follows Stan and his friend as they become employees at a government factory during World War II, where they unwittingly become involved in thwarting industrial sabotage. The film blends slapstick humor with wartime patriotism, showcasing the classic comedic timing and chemistry of Laurel. As they fumble through their new roles, the duo encounters a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings while highlighting themes of loyalty, friendship, and the importance of contributing to the war effort. The Big Noise remains a lighthearted wartime comedy that captures the spirit of the era with slapstick charm.

Cast

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  Stan Laurel

  Stan

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  Oliver Hardy

  Ollie

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  Doris Merrick

  Evelyn

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  Arthur Space

  Alva P. Hartley

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  Veda Ann Borg

  Mayme Charlton

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  Robert Blake

  Egbert Hartley

Reviews

Critical reception of The Big Noise is mixed, reflecting its status as a lesser-known Laurel and Hardy-associated project, though Laurel stars solo here. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.3/10 based on audience reviews, indicating a moderately positive reception with some viewers appreciating its light comedy but others considering it a weaker entry in 1940s film comedies. Rotten Tomatoes does not have official critic scores for this vintage title, leaving the assessment mainly to fan opinion and historical retrospectives. Some film historians note that while it lacks the iconic pairing of Laurel and Hardy, Stan Laurel’s comedic talent remains evident, and the film serves as a nostalgic World War II era comedy artifact. Critics often point out that its humor is relatively mild and the pacing slower compared to Laurel and Hardy’s peak works, but the film's charm lies in its simple, straightforward comedy appropriate for the time. Overall, The Big Noise is appreciated by classic comedy enthusiasts but may not engage modern audiences as deeply.