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5.2/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 5.2/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Two Plus Fours remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
So, you want to know about Two Plus Fours? Honestly, for the curious classic film fan, especially if you're into those quick, charming old Hollywood shorts and early Bing Crosby stuff, then yeah, this one’s worth a look. Anyone expecting deep narrative or modern pacing, though? You might find it a bit slow or just… light. 🤷♀️
The whole thing revolves around a really nice tailor, Mr. Perkins, who’s about to lose his shop. His daughter, played by Thelma Hill, is clearly stressed about it all. Then, enter the young singing group, The Rhythm Boys, ready to help out. It’s a familiar setup, but it’s got a certain sweetness to it.
Bing Crosby is, of course, the main draw here, with Harry Barris and Al Rinker backing him up. They just *brighten* things up when they appear. Their songs are pretty much the real pulse of the film. You can see Bing already has that easygoing charisma he’d become famous for.
The whole vibe is very much of its time, really. Things move along at a gentle clip. There isn't much urgency, even with the tailor's shop on the line. It's more about the mood than the dramatic stakes.
There's a moment when the tailor is just looking at his fabrics, and you really feel his attachment to the place. The shop itself feels lived-in, not just a set piece. Thelma Hill, as the daughter, brings a nice, earnest energy. She’s worried but also determined, which is good.
I kept noticing the little details in the shop, like the spools of thread and the big shears. It’s a small thing, but it makes the space feel real, you know? And the way Mr. Perkins sighs sometimes, it’s just very human.
The Rhythm Boys, when they get going, they just *pop*. Their harmonizing is so tight. It’s a treat to hear them in their element, before Bing went completely solo. You can really tell they've practiced these numbers a lot.
There are a few bits that feel a little forced, like some of the attempts at light comedy. But it never gets in the way too much. It's more of an innocent sort of humor, nothing too wild. One scene, a quick reaction shot from Nat Carr, almost makes you chuckle. 😂
It's a testament to simple storytelling, this one. No huge special effects. Just people, a problem, and some good music. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, just give you a pleasant few minutes to relax.
For fans of old musical shorts, or anyone wanting a peek at Crosby’s early days, this is a neat little gem. It shows what they could do with a small budget and a lot of talent. *Definitely* a cozy watch. 🎵
IMDb —
1917
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