SYNOPSIS: "Africa Screams" (1949) stars the iconic comedy duo Abbott and Costello in a rollicking adventure filled with humor and hijinks. The film follows the misadventures of Stanley Livingstone (played by Lou Costello), a bumbling book salesman who inadvertently finds himself embroiled in a wild expedition to Africa. Stanley, eager to impress his boss and win the affection of his boss's secretary, volunteers for a dangerous quest to retrieve a rare and valuable diamond. Alongside his friend Buzz Johnson (played by Bud Abbott), Stanley navigates through a series of comical mishaps and misunderstandings as they encounter eccentric characters and dangerous wildlife.

Their journey takes them deep into the heart of Africa, where they cross paths with a group of unscrupulous hunters, a ferocious gorilla named Bwana (played by Joe Besser), and a native tribe led by the formidable Witch Doctor (played by Buddy Baer). As they race against time to find the diamond, Stanley and Buzz's comedic antics escalate, leading to chaotic yet hilarious situations. The film showcases Abbott and Costello's trademark comedy routines, witty banter, and physical humor, making it a classic example of their comedic partnership. "Africa Screams" remains beloved for its timeless humor and lighthearted entertainment, capturing the essence of Abbott and Costello's comedic genius in a lively adventure through the African wilderness.

PLOT Spoiler Alert : "Africa Screams" (1949) follows the misadventures of Stanley Livingstone (played by Lou Costello), an inept and hapless book salesman working at a department store. In a bid to impress his boss and win the affection of his boss's secretary, Diana Emerson (played by Hillary Brooke), Stanley inadvertently becomes embroiled in a grand adventure. Mistaken for a fearless big-game hunter, he is teamed up with Buzz Johnson (played by Bud Abbott), a fast-talking and opportunistic private detective.

The plot kicks into high gear when Stanley and Buzz embark on a journey to Africa under the pretense of searching for a rare diamond. Unbeknownst to Stanley, Buzz sees the expedition as an opportunity for personal gain. Their African safari quickly turns into a comedy of errors as they encounter a host of eccentric characters and mishaps along the way. They cross paths with a group of unscrupulous hunters led by Boots Wilson (played by Joe Besser), who are also in pursuit of the valuable gemstone.

Amidst the wild and dangerous African landscape, Stanley and Buzz find themselves in absurd situations, from narrowly escaping wild animals to comedic misunderstandings with local tribespeople. Their journey includes encounters with a friendly but mischievous gorilla named Bwana (played by Joe Besser in a dual role), adding to the chaos and hilarity of their escapades.

Throughout the film, Abbott and Costello showcase their trademark comedic timing and chemistry, blending slapstick humor with witty banter. The duo's dynamic is highlighted by their contrasting personalities: Stanley's naivety and clumsiness juxtaposed with Buzz's slick and opportunistic nature. As they stumble their way through the jungle, Stanley and Buzz must navigate treacherous terrain and outwit their adversaries to secure the elusive diamond.

"Africa Screams" endures as a classic comedy for its timeless humor, memorable performances by Abbott and Costello, and the energetic, adventurous spirit that drives the narrative. The film remains beloved by audiences for its uproarious antics and the enduring appeal of its comedic legends.

PRODUCTION: "Africa Screams" (1949) was produced by Nassour Studios and directed by Charles Barton. The film's production took place over a relatively short period, with shooting commencing in late 1948. Filming primarily occurred on studio sets rather than on location in Africa, which was typical for many Hollywood productions of the time. The screenplay, credited to Earl Baldwin and Martin Ragaway, was tailored to showcase the comedic talents of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, who were at the peak of their fame as a comedy duo during the late 1940s.

The production was characterized by a fast-paced shooting schedule to capitalize on the popularity of Abbott and Costello and their established comedic formula.

Despite the film's setting in Africa, most of the jungle scenes were filmed on soundstages, utilizing props and special effects to simulate the African landscape. The production also featured a mix of practical effects and comedic stunts, including interactions with live animals and elaborate set pieces designed to enhance the film's humor.

Throughout the filming process, Abbott and Costello's comedic chemistry was a central focus, with the script often tailored to accommodate their improvisational skills and timing. The supporting cast, including Hillary Brooke, Joe Besser, and others, contributed to the film's ensemble dynamic, adding to the comedic interplay and chaotic situations that Abbott and Costello's characters found themselves in.

Overall, "Africa Screams" was a product of its time, leveraging the popularity of its stars and the comedic sensibilities of the era. The production aimed to entertain audiences with its blend of slapstick humor, witty dialogue, and exaggerated scenarios, ensuring that Abbott and Costello's comedic talents shone through in every scene.

RELEASE: "Africa Screams" (1949) was released by United Artists and premiered on May 4, 1949, in Los Angeles, California. The film, directed by Charles Barton and starring comedy duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, was eagerly anticipated by audiences who were familiar with their comedic work. The release was strategically timed to capitalize on their popularity in the comedy genre during the late 1940s.

Following its premiere, "Africa Screams" enjoyed a wide theatrical release across the United States, debuting in theaters nationwide throughout the summer of 1949. The film's promotional campaign heavily emphasized Abbott and Costello's comedic prowess and the promise of uproarious adventure in an African setting, which appealed to audiences seeking light-hearted entertainment during the post-war period.

Critical reception to "Africa Screams" was generally positive, with reviewers highlighting the film's energetic performances and comedic timing of its leads.

While not a critical masterpiece, the film resonated well with audiences, contributing to Abbott and Costello's continued success as comedic stars in Hollywood.

Throughout the years, "Africa Screams" has remained a beloved classic among fans of Abbott and Costello's comedic legacy, often cited for its enduring humor and memorable performances. The film's release marked another successful chapter in the duo's career, solidifying their status as comedic icons in American cinema.

CAST:

• Bud Abbott as Buzz Johnson

• Lou Costello as Stanley Livington

• Hillary Brooke as Diana Emerson

• Clyde Beatty as Himself

• Buddy Baer as Boots Wilson

• Max Baer as Grappler McCoy

• Shemp Howard as Gunner

• Frank Buck as Himself

• Joe Besser as Harry

• Burt Wenland as Bobo

CREW:

• Director: Charles Barton

• Producer: Edward Nassour

• Writer: Earl Baldwin (screenplay)

• Cinematographer: Charles Van Enger

• Editor: Frank Gross

Production Company: Nassour Studios Inc., Huntington Hartford Productions
Distributor: United Artists

Release Date: May 4, 1949
Country of Origin: United States
Running Time: 79 minutes
Budget: $500,000
Box Office Return: $1.5 million

IMDB Rating =  6.0 / 10

TRIVIA:

• "Africa Screams" marked the final collaboration between Abbott and Costello and director Charles Barton, who had directed some of their most successful films.

• The film features cameos by famous animal trainers Clyde Beatty and Frank Buck, adding authenticity to the jungle scenes.

• Lou Costello was genuinely afraid of some of the animals on set, which added to the authenticity of his reactions in the film.

• The title "Africa Screams" is a play on the famous documentary "Africa Speaks!" which added a comedic twist to the film's adventurous theme.

• Despite its comedic nature, the film was noted for its impressive animal scenes, which were coordinated by experienced animal trainers.

• The film features the only on-screen pairing of Joe Besser and Shemp Howard. Shemp Howard was an original member of The Three Stooges.

• The comment by Boots (Buddy Baer) to Grappler (Max Baer), "I'll hit you harder than Louis ever did," is a reference to boxer Joe Louis who battled both Baers in the 1930s.

• The original script had a lovestruck female gorilla pursuing Lou Costello, but this was changed due to Production Code objections.

• There's a scene where Joe Besser keeps running into Bud Abbott and Lou Costello's tent with an empty glass, which was inspired by a real-life incident involving Max Baer.

• The little "mini-car" shown in the final scenes is a real Crosley car, not a movie prop.

• "Africa Screams" was the first independently financed film that Bud Abbott and Lou Costello made while under contract with Universal, released by United Artists.

• World-renowned animal trainer Clyde Beatty provided his own animals for the film.

• There was a significant feud between producer Edward Nassour and Lou Costello during production, leading to the film being nicknamed "Nassour Screams."

• The main character's name, Stanley Livington, is a play on "Stanley & Livingstone," referencing the famous explorers.

• Despite being billed as a joint venture, Shemp Howard and Joe Besser have very little screen time together in the film.

• Costello breaks the fourth wall more frequently than usual in this film.

• This was Shemp Howard's first movie with Abbott and Costello in six years and the last of their five films together.

• Spike Jones was initially announced to have a role in the film, but this did not materialize; he later appeared with Abbott and Costello in another film.

• When Costello encounters the orangutan Gargantua, faint roars can be heard, which are actually from King Kong (1933).

“Africa Screams” is a classic example of Abbott and Costello's slapstick humor, set against the backdrop of an African adventure. The film's combination of physical comedy, clever wordplay, and humorous situations makes it a timeless piece in the duo's filmography.