Ep 7. No Census, No Feeling
The Three Stooges Collection 1940-1942 is a compilation of short comedy films featuring the iconic American vaudeville and comedy team known for their slapstick humor and physical farce. Season 1, Episode 7, titled No Census, No Feeling, is a classic installment from this golden era of Stooge comedy that was released in 1940. Despite its age, the episode remains a fan favorite due to its timeless humor and the Stooges' unique brand of comedy.
In No Census, No Feeling, our beloved trio, Moe, Larry, and Curly, are at it again, tackling a new odd job with zeal and their characteristic lack of common sense. This time, the Stooges are census takers, embarking on a mission to collect data for the government's population count—a task that, in theory, should be straightforward but becomes a series of misadventures when left in the hands of the Stooges.
The episode begins with the Stooges enthusiastically receiving their census taken instructions and materials, though it's clear from the start that they may not be the most suitable candidates for a task that requires attention to detail and a measure of diplomacy. Nonetheless, with clipboards in hand, they set out into the streets, determined to fulfill their civic duty.
As they approach their assigned neighborhood, the Stooges split up to cover more ground, leading to a parade of comedic situations. Each of the Stooges brings his own peculiar flavor of ineptitude to the task, wreaking havoc and leaving a trail of confusion among the citizens they encounter.
Moe, the de facto leader of the group, approaches his role with a stern and business-like attitude, yet quickly finds himself in over his head as he meets with resistance and misunderstandings that lead to a variety of unintended consequences. His attempts to gather census data often end in pratfalls, mix-ups, and the unintentional destruction of property.
Larry, always a wild card, takes to the streets with a more whimsical approach, but his lack of focus results in creative but increasingly convoluted attempts to obtain census information. His interactions with the public are rife with slapstick and blunders, with each mistake more side-splitting than the last.
Curly, the lovable and childlike Stooge, injects an infectious energy into his endeavors. However, his misunderstanding of the task at hand leads him into a web of hilarious complications. His half-baked strategies for counting the population spiral into absurdity, and his gleeful antics serve to amplify the chaos around him.
The narrative thread of No Census, No Feeling weaves through a variety of set-pieces that showcase the Stooges' talent for physical comedy and their ability to turn a seemingly simple situation into a comic disaster. As they encounter an array of colorful characters—from unsuspecting homeowners, reluctant respondents, and even a group of society party-goers—every interaction is an opportunity for the Stooges to demonstrate their signature gags and comedic misunderstandings.
One of the hallmarks of a Three Stooges episode is the clever use of sound effects and sight gags, which are abundant in No Census, No Feeling. The slap of Moe's hand, the twang of a mistaken hit, and the exaggerated expressions of shock, anger, and bewilderment all add to the hilarity of the Stooges' antics. Astute viewers will appreciate the joyful cacophony of sounds and the carefully orchestrated choreography that contributes to the humor of the episode.
In addition to their physical comedy, the episode showcases the Stooges' ability to play with language, with puns, malapropisms, and wordplay peppered throughout the dialogue. The script plays to the strengths of the performers, allowing each to shine while delivering clever quips and exchanges that will have viewers chuckling.
Despite—or perhaps because of—their bumbling ways, the endearing nature of the Three Stooges shines through, making No Census, No Feeling a standout episode for fans old and new. As the episode draws to a close, without giving anything away, it is clear that the Stooges' attempt at being census takers has been anything but conventional, resulting in a series of laughs and fond memories for the audience.
No Census, No Feeling is a testament to the timeless appeal of the Three Stooges and their brand of comedy, which still resonates with audiences decades after its release. The combination of visual humor, wordplay, and the relentless spirits of Moe, Larry, and Curly create a vintage comedy experience that is as enjoyable today as it was upon its initial release.