Watch The Nitwits

The Nitwits is a comedy film from 1935 that tells the story of two bumbling janitors, played by Bert Wheeler and Robert Woolsey, who end up entangled in a web of espionage and murder. Along the way, they team up with a young Betty Grable, in one of her early film roles, to help solve the crime and clear their names. The film opens with the two janitors, Ambrose and Waldo, working at a hospital where a group of criminals are planning to steal a valuable formula from a scientist. When Waldo overhears the plan, the criminals frame him for the murder of the scientist and the theft of the formula, leading to a frantic chase scene as Ambrose and Waldo attempt to clear their names.

The chase takes them through a series of comedic misadventures, from getting involved with a traveling circus to accidentally breaking into a wealthy socialite's home. Throughout it all, they are pursued by the police and the real criminals, who aim to ensure that they remain the scapegoats for the theft.

As the plot unfolds, they are joined by Betty Grable's character, a cabaret singer named Virginia. Together, they continue to stumble their way through the mystery, eventually uncovering the real culprits and clearing their names.

The Nitwits is a classic example of the screwball comedy genre popular in the 1930s. The film features plenty of physical humor, slapstick comedy, and witty banter, with the comedic timing of the two stars showcased throughout.

Bert Wheeler and Robert Woolsey were a popular comedy duo at the time, known for their hilarious antics and off-the-wall humor. Their chemistry is evident from the very beginning of the film, with their back-and-forth banter providing many of the film's funniest moments.

Betty Grable's appearance in the film was an early indication of the star power that she would later achieve. Although she only has a supporting role, her natural charisma and beauty are evident, and she brings a much-needed energy to the film's slower moments.

One of the most entertaining aspects of The Nitwits is its satire of the crime genre. Rather than playing it straight, the film gleefully pokes fun at the conventions of the genre, with the criminals portrayed as hapless bunglers and the heroes stumbling their way to victory through a series of misunderstandings and accidents.

Overall, The Nitwits is a fun and entertaining film that delivers plenty of laughs. While some of the humor may feel outdated by modern standards, there is still plenty of charm and wit on display that makes it worth watching for fans of classic screwball comedies.