Question 1

Why was 'Great Guns' a major studio first for Laurel and Hardy?

Accepted Answer

It was their first movie for a major studio, as previous films were released by MGM but not made by the studio. At Fox, they couldn't shoot in sequence or have Stan Laurel direct and edit, which he had done uncredited before.

Question 2

How did Fox try to capitalize on Abbott and Costello's success with this film?

Accepted Answer

Fox made 'Great Guns' to capitalize on the success of Abbott and Costello's wartime comedy 'Buck Privates' (1941). The initial script even referenced that film, and Costello sought Laurel's advice during filming.

Question 3

What historical cavalry significance does this film have?

Accepted Answer

It may be the last Cavalry movie with real cavalrymen, as the last active Army Horse Cavalry Units were disbanded in 1940, with some National Guard units surviving till 1942.

Question 4

Why was the film considered dated upon its October 1941 release?

Accepted Answer

The focus on a cavalry unit seemed outdated because the Fall of France and the Axis invasion of the Soviet Union had already demonstrated tanks' clear superiority in warfare.

Question 5

What challenges did Laurel and Hardy face at Fox compared to Hal Roach?

Accepted Answer

Fox had a bigger operation with less dedicated technicians unfamiliar with their comedy, and considered them 'B' film category with smaller budgets. Stan was assured script consultation but faced restrictions.

Great Guns

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