Fifty Roads to Town: A dusty, confused little comedy

Is it worth it?

Look, if you have a soft spot for 1930s screwball comedies that move at a frantic, slightly exhausting pace, you’ll probably find something to like here. If you hate movies where the entire plot hinges on characters refusing to have a two-minute conversation to clear things up, stay away. This is pure chaos, and it isn't trying to be anything else.

Don Ameche is doing a lot of heavy lifting here. He’s got that smooth, fast-talking vibe that keeps the energy up even when the script feels like it’s spinning its wheels in the mud. Ann Sothern is playing the 'tough' girl who is actually just confused, and their back-and-forth is fine, I guess. It’s not exactly Scrambled Wives in terms of sharp wit, but it works.

Wait, why is everyone so angry?

The whole town seems to be in a bad mood. The sheriff is constantly red-faced, and the extras are just sort of milling about looking like they’d rather be literally anywhere else. There's a scene in a cabin that feels like it’s been shot three different times with different lighting setups. It’s distracting if you’re actually paying attention to the walls instead of the actors.

Stepin Fetchit is in this, which is... well, it’s a complicated legacy to reckon with, and honestly, the film doesn't do him any favors. It’s a tough watch if you’re looking for anything resembling a nuanced character. The movie definitely feels its age in ways that aren't exactly charming.

• That one guy in the background of the hotel lobby who literally does nothing but lean on a desk for five minutes.
• The sound quality takes a weird dip whenever they step outside.
• The sheer amount of running through bushes is honestly impressive.

I found myself wondering if they just ran out of film and had to wrap things up as fast as possible. The ending happens so abruptly that I checked my player to make sure it didn't skip a scene. It’s not a masterpiece, but it’s a weird, dusty little time capsule. 🎥

If you like this sort of thing, you might also have sat through Politics or maybe even The Song and Dance Man on a rainy afternoon. It’s that same kind of energy. Lots of shouting, lots of doors slamming, and very little actual logic.