Monkey Business (1931) Blu-ray Review

Very few comedy teams are more recognizable than that of The Marx Brothers. Their zany antics and quick one-liners made their films so much fun to watch. 

Now Universal Pictures Home Entertainment have released some of the Marx Brothers early films on Blu-ray. We recently reviewed the Blu-ray release of 1929's The Cocoanuts. But now it is time for another Marx Brothers film. This time it is 1931's Monkey Business.

The iconic Marx Brothers -- Groucho, Harpo, Chico and Zeppo -- head for the high seas in the outrageously funny Monkey Business. While hiding from the authorities on a luxury cruise ship, a quartet of stowaways inadvertently find themselves posing as bodyguards to rival gangsters. Complete lunacy ensues as the brothers get mixed up in a kidnapping and must save the day. Featuring some of the legendary comedy team's wackiest scenes ever, including all four brothers each trying to pass themselves off as real-life actor Maurice Chevalier.

The Marx Brothers are in rare form in Monkey Business. With Groucho's rapid fire jokes, Chico and Harpo's wackiness along with the showoff of their amazing musical talents. It's no wonder Monkey Business earned a spot on the AFI's 100 Years 100 Laughs list.

Universal Picture Home Entertainment has released this film on Blu-ray. Monkey Business have been transferred in 1080p the aspect ratio is the original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. The audio is a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Finally, there is English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Now I must be honest here the transfer is not perfect. There are some scratches on this print, but it is nothing that should take away from the enjoyment of the viewing of this hilarious cinematic experience. So don't let that deter you from picking up a copy of this Blu-ray.

Now in addition to seeing this Marx Brothers classic on Blu-ray. This release has a very interesting audio commentary by Marx Brothers historian/author Robert S. Bader and Bill Marx (Harpo's son). This commentary deserves a listen. And then there is a full length 2016 documentary entitled "Marx Brothers: Hollywood's Kings of Chaos." This documentary is so good it is worth the price of the Blu-ray alone.

Even with the scratches I still think this Blu-ray is a must own. It is a comedy classic and to see it in HD is a must for classic comedy fans or fans of the Marx Brothers. And if you have never seen the bonus documentary. That is an absolute must!

So, if you love the Marx Brothers as much as I do Monkey Business Blu-ray is a must for your collection. Head over to MovieZyng and order your copy today.

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Monkey Business Blu-ray receives...