Seal Skins: House of Whosits

“A seal for sale– cheap!”

For this installment, Thelma’s a newspaper stenographer who yearns to beat one of the female reporters at her game. A mix up in search of a stolen Siberian seal leads Thelma and Zasu to an old dark house full of sideshow performers, including a tall man, a midget, a witch doctor (who apparently lounges around in his getup), and a boxing gorilla. There’s nothing malicious in their portrayals, as all the freaks are working stiffs just trying to relax while two hysterical women run around in search of a seal.

But which Smith?

There’s nothing particularly noteworthy in this one, besides the journalism mileau that so many other pre-Codes took advantage of. Setting up a female reporter rivalry is a nice touch, even if there isn’t a payoff. There’s also a few moments where the short tries to build tension rather than just go for laughs, which makes it a bit better than your usual spooky house send-up, if only by a hair.

Awards, Accolades & Availability

• This film is available on YouTube.

Comment below or join our email subscription list on the sidebar!