So, this is the second Stooges film I saw in '57. Our local theater had shown "Space Ship Sappy' earlier in the year, but didn't have another until this one came out. Naturally, being a very little kid, I found it hilarious. Growing up has it's disadvantages. A few years later, the older shorts started appearing on TV, coupled with Popeye cartoons in my area. The good ones. The Fleisher ones. But to me in 1957, The Three Stooges were Moe, Larry, and Joe.
Years later, after I knew more about their story, I interviewed Moe for my college radio station. Our Film Committee was about to show "Punch Drunks" and "Men In Black" with Moe doing a Q&A between the films. Then, as now, I find the Stooges more interesting as a fascinating showbiz story then as comic actors (although they sure ARE funny!), so I had lots of questions for Moe. Since that time, I've read many accounts that disagreed with what Moe told me on one topic, and I'd like to hear what others may know about it.
By that time (and years before), I knew that Besser was pretty much a dud as a Stooge. I asked why he was hired. I clearly remember Moe telling me that they were forced into it. They wanted Joe DeRita, but Besser was under contract with Columbia, so there was no reason to hire someone new. I've read many times (including accounts from Moe's son) that they were very happy to get Besser and that he fit in well. And, of course, Besser crowed about it for the rest of his life.
So, was Moe just telling me a story? I know how dull things can get with people asking the same questions every day, and a lot of people do just make up answers for their own entertainment, but he seemed sincere and maybe still a little bit angry about having him join the act. I recall dismissive hand gestures as he explained it.
So, anybody know the real story? Or THINK they know the real story?