The Gay Nighties

About This Movie

The Gay Nighties (1933) is a peculiar little short that dances around absurdity. It features two women in their nighties, which adds a cheeky, playful vibe. Paul McCullough dons a dress for much of the film, providing a striking visual contrast to Bobby Clark's energetic riffing on the word 'Alright!'—a gag that feels like a precursor to Lou Costello's later routines. The film meanders through a whimsical plot filled with a political frameup and a comically nearsighted house detective, all wrapped in a breezy, nonsensical atmosphere. The pacing is quick, keeping you engaged with its oddball humor, and it certainly captures a snapshot of early 30s comedy that feels both nostalgic and uniquely entertaining.

The Gay Nighties has had limited availability, often appearing in collections of early sound shorts. It’s not the easiest film to track down, making it a curious piece for collectors who appreciate pre-Code comedies and their experimentation with gender roles and humor. While not widely celebrated, its unique charm and quirky performances have garnered niche interest, especially among aficionados of early 20th-century film. Collectors may find various prints, but many are often in varying conditions, adding to the film's elusive allure.