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7.7/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 7.7/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Grips, Grunts and Groans remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
If you need a quick laugh and don't mind physical comedy that's about as subtle as a brick, this is for you. If you get annoyed by people shouting or cartoonish violence, skip it. It's basically 18 minutes of pure, unadulterated nonsense.
The whole premise of Grips, Grunts and Groans is just an excuse to get Curly into a wrestling ring. He looks like a fish out of water, which is obviously the point. Seeing him try to act tough is, honestly, kind of adorable in a weird way.
There is this one moment where a spectator’s perfume becomes the secret weapon. It’s so dumb, but it made me laugh out loud. You don't see that kind of silly setup in modern movies anymore. Everything today is so serious, you know?
The wrestling scenes aren't exactly technically impressive. But then again, you aren't watching for the technique. You’re watching to see Moe yell at someone and Larry get caught in the crossfire.
It’s funny to think about how this compares to something like Morocco. Totally different worlds, right? One is all glamour and longing, and the other is just three guys in a ring trying not to get flattened.
The pacing is fast. Maybe too fast. It feels like they were trying to cram as many pratfalls as possible into a tiny window. Sometimes it works, sometimes it’s just a blur of limbs and shouting.
I found myself wondering if they ever actually practiced these stunts. I mean, the way Larry gets thrown around—man, that’s got to hurt. You can feel the floor shaking just watching it. 🤕
It doesn't have the grit of The Accomplice, obviously. But it’s not trying to. It’s just trying to be a riot.
If you’re having a bad day, this is the perfect cure. It’s impossible to be grumpy while watching Curly try to outsmart a wrestler who looks like a mountain. Just don't look for a plot. There isn't one.