I agree, the whole setup for this short is actually one that’s really fitting. Even the musical numbers, which I’m still not fond of, at least feel like they have a place here given the whole idea of it being a stage show.
Is it just me, or does this one seem more chaotic than usual? That’s by no means a criticism; in fact, I think it helps it to stand out even more. Just seeing everything going on at the end with Ted trying to sing Dinah is surprisingly very funny. I’m not exactly sure what Curly and Moe were doing at the end, but it was just so bizarre that I had to laugh at it. Larry got some moments to shine too, which was also nice. My favorite part was when Ted tried the “take a number” bit on Curly. Ted actually does do pretty well in that and the “pay the mortgage” routine, although there are a few moments where he does feel like he’s trying to force himself into a routine specifically meant for the Stooges, such as when he makes fun of Curly’s name.
Overall, a pretty good effort, and easily the best of the shorts they made with Healy.
8 out of 10