Believe It or Not (Second Series) #2

About This Movie

So, here’s ‘Believe It or Not (Second Series) #2,’ a fascinating little documentary from 1931. Ripley, with his signature flair, introduces us to bizarre curiosities—like a Japanese statesman and a fish with legs. The pacing has this quaint charm, almost hypnotic, as you watch him unveil each oddity. The practical effects are intriguing, especially the giant typewriter that feels like a relic from a different era. There's a certain rawness to it, a glimpse into the early days of documentary filmmaking where awe takes center stage. It's a fascinating cultural artifact, showcasing early 20th-century curiosity and the human penchant for the extraordinary.

This film is a part of the rare Vitaphone series and holds a special place in collector circles due to its unique format and the charming oddities it showcases. The scarcity of prints makes it a sought-after title for those interested in early documentaries. Collectors often appreciate the film not just for its content, but for the glimpse it provides into the early 1930s fascination with the bizarre and the unusual.