The Marx Brothers Council Podcast

Nov 30

Award-winning writer/comedian and longtime Marx Brothers obsessive Elliott Kalan ("The Daily Show", "MST3K", "The Flop House", and the new book, "Joke Farming") takes us deep into the craft of professional comedy writing with a nice dose of Marx-inspired examples. Elliott details the difference between satire and parody, defends the noble pun, and tells the story behind his delightfully chaotic Marx-flavored children’s book, "Sharko and Hippo".

Oct 30

Council members weigh in with their takes on the 1933 classic. We dive into the big questions: Is the film genuine satire or just anarchy in disguise? Which supporting characters truly “deserve” the wrath of the Marxes? And why is there not even incidental sound in the famed mirror scene? We’ll also discuss the difficulty some folks apparently have in fitting the entire movie on a VHS tape. Join us as we spin our wheels trying to find logic in the brothers’ most illogical film.

Sep 30

In this episode, we listen to and examine some of Groucho’s, Chico’s, and (yes, even) Harpo’s most notable radio guest appearances. We discuss how, while much of their radio work was pedestrian, when paired with the right writers and co-stars, the brothers could flourish. These guest spots also let the brothers experiment in ways they couldn’t elsewhere — and even when the results were uneven, they were always fascinating.

Sep 3

Alexander Woollcott authority Brad Sohlo returns to explore the celebrated critic’s influence on Harpo’s life, career, and legacy—and the surprisingly equal role Harpo played in Woollcott’s. Brad also shares stories from his visit to Woollcott’s Neshobe Island retreat, where Harpo and fellow Algonquin Round Table regulars gathered to unwind, rough it, and battle it out over croquet.

Aug 11

A complete collection of listener submissions from episode 83, "Horse Feathers Reeducated". Because of time constraints and overlapping content, not every comment made it into the original episode. Now, you can enjoy the full, uncut versions of every clip we received—packed with great stories and fascinating insights. Enjoy!

Jul 28

Council members weigh in on one of the Marxes’ greatest films. Hear about a botched screening, why Jennings might be the dumbest gambler in history, and one member’s detailed dissent on Chico’s piano solo. You’ll also get mixed takes on the football finale, learn who holds the title of show business’s most ridiculed performer, and find out how Halle Berry’s name managed to enter the conversation.

Jun 18

Screen icon Elliott Gould joins the guys for a heartwarming and at times profound conversation about his friendship with Groucho. From deli lunches to hospital antics to reflections on Mae West, Erin Fleming, and the meaning of legacy, Elliott offers deeply personal stories with warmth and wit. You’ll even learn what Groucho considered Elliott’s greatest performance.

May 27

We're celebrating the tenth anniversary of Matthew Coniam’s “The Annotated Marx Brothers: A Filmgoer's Guide to In-Jokes, Obscure References and Sly Details”. In this retrospective, we explore how the book came to be—and how it ultimately became something quite different from what the title might lead you to expect. What sets it apart from other books on the Marxes? Is an updated edition on the horizon? And does Matthew still hate “Duck Soup”? These and other pressing questions will be lightly dodged before we inevitably try to sell you a copy.