Tricks of Trade

About This Movie

Tricks of Trade has this light, breezy feel typical of RKO's Easy Aces comedies. It’s not just a comedy but a satirical take on the world of horseracing touts and the burgeoning sound effects scene in film and radio. The practical effects they pull off, blending humor with clever tricks, give it a distinctive charm. Sure, the pacing can feel a bit uneven at times, but that’s part of its quirky appeal, right? The performances are delightfully over-the-top in that classic 1930s style, making it feel like a playful jaunt through a whimsical landscape where sound is as important as sight. There’s a simplicity in its storytelling that somehow resonates.

Tricks of Trade is a curious piece in the collector's landscape, reflecting the transition in comedy during the 1930s. Finding it in good condition can be a bit of a challenge due to its age and the obscurity of Van Beuren Studios' productions. Despite its rarity, it garners interest for its comedic originality and historical context in early sound cinema, making it a worthy discussion piece among collectors passionate about vintage comedies.