The Flying Deuces

The Flying Deuces, the 1939 comedy film starring Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, is an endearing tale of love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between two misfits. The story begins with Ollie, portrayed by Stan Laurel, who falls head over heels in love with a beautiful young woman, played by Florence McArthur. However, his joy is short-lived as he soon discovers that she's already married. In a moment of desperation, Ollie attempts to take his own life, but his efforts are thwarted when he accidentally shoots a bucket of paint instead of a bullet. Determined to escape the heartache and the shame of his failed attempt, Ollie and his best friend Stan, played by Oliver Hardy, decide to join the Foreign Legion, the famous French military unit. In their enthusiasm, they enlist in a hurry and are quickly shipped off to a desolate African outpost, where they're tasked with guarding a fort. Unbeknownst to the duo, their enlistment is not taken seriously, and they're assigned a series of tedious duties, including digging a ditch and scrubbing floors. As they struggle to adjust to military life, Ollie and Stan soon discover that they're not cut out for it. They're constantly getting into trouble, whether it's accidentally setting off an artillery piece or accidentally getting their uniforms mixed up with those of the rest of the troops. In one particularly memorable scene, they attempt to drill with a group of other recruits but end up getting their arms and legs tangled together, causing them to stumble and fall in unison. However, their troubles are compounded when they're accused of planning to desert the Legion. The situation becomes even more dire when they're brought before the firing squad and given a chance to speak their final words. In a moment of desperation, Ollie and Stan turn the tables on their captors by distracting them with a series of antics, including playing pranks on the executioners and attempting to give the commandant a pair of socks. The distraction is enough to allow them to escape, and they steal a nearby aircraft and make their getaway. As they soar through the skies, Ollie and Stan's adventure becomes a thrilling tale of evasion and escape. They outmaneuver their pursuers, dodging artillery fire and narrowly avoiding a head-on collision with a pursuing plane. Along the way, they develop a new appreciation for their friendship and the fact that they're in it together. They also share a moment of tenderness when they pause to reflect on their misadventure, and Ollie reveals that he joined the Legion in part to escape his heartache. The Flying Deuces is a classic example of Laurel and Hardy's unique brand of comedy, which relies on physical slapstick, witty banter, and the chemistry between the two leads. The film is filled with memorable scenes, from Ollie and Stan's initial recruitment efforts to their high-flying escape from the Legion. It's also a testament to the enduring power of friendship, as Ollie and Stan's bond allows them to overcome even the most daunting challenges. The supporting cast is memorable, with notable performances from Charles Middleton as a befuddled commandant and Thelma Todd as a flirtatious young woman. The setting is equally picturesque, with a beautiful African landscape that provides a stunning backdrop for the duo's escapades. Overall, The Flying Deuces is a hilarious and action-packed comedy that showcases the talents of Laurel and Hardy at their best. It's a must-see for fans of the duo and anyone who loves a good laugh.