The Finishing Touch *** (1928, Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy, Edgar Kennedy, Dorothy Coburn) – Classic Movie Review 7409

‘The story of two boys who went to school for nine years – and finished in the first reader.’

Director Clyde A Bruckman’s and producer Hal Roach’s 1928 black and white 20-minute two-reeler short comedy silent film The Finishing Touch stars Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy as builders who agree to finish constructing a homeowner (Sam Lufkin)’s half-built house in one day for a $500 bonus.

They are harassed by cop Edgar Kennedy (‘if you make a noise, make it quietly’) and a nearby nurse (Dorothy Coburn), and a bird proves their downfall (or the house’s).

The Finishing Touch, written by H M Walker, is a splendidly energetic and funny Laurel and Hardy silent comedy with many good jokes and dynamic handling.

The Finishing Touch was shot in November and December 1927 and released on 25 February 1928 by MGM.

The final gag misfired when the boys’ truck failed to drive all the way through the house. They chose to keep the end as filmed rather than rebuild the house for one gag.

© Derek Winnert 2018 Classic Movie Review 7409

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