Pulling a Bone 1931
In Howard Bretherton's zany short comedy *Pulling a Bone* (1931), George Burns finds himself in a department store with a pesky bone lodged in his throat—an uncomfortable predicament that no one seems eager to resolve.
Director: Howard Bretherton
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pulling a Bone (1931) about?
George Burns' character desperately tries to remove a bone stuck in his throat at a department store, only to face apathy from staff—until Gracie Allen's lunch counter chatter adds to the chaos. The ten-minute short turns a simple problem into a whirlwind of miscommunication and slapstick hilarity.
Who directed Pulling a Bone?
Howard Bretherton, a prolific director known for his work in early sound-era films, helmed this quick-witted comedy.
Who stars in Pulling a Bone?
The film features George Burns, Gracie Allen, and William Browning in pivotal roles.
Is Pulling a Bone (1931) worth watching?
While it's a short—just ten minutes long—*Pulling a Bone* offers a delightful dose of vintage comedy gold, thanks to Burns and Allen's dynamic rapport. Fans of classic slapstick or early Hollywood gems will find its snappy pacing and quirky humor refreshing.
How long is Pulling a Bone?
The runtime of *Pulling a Bone* (1931) is 10 minutes.
About Pulling a Bone (1931) — Classic Comedy Short with George Burns & Gracie Allen
In Howard Bretherton's zany short comedy *Pulling a Bone* (1931), George Burns finds himself in a department store with a pesky bone lodged in his throat—an uncomfortable predicament that no one seems eager to resolve. Frustrated by the indifference of store employees, he turns for help to Gracie Allen, the quick-witted lunch counter girl whose mind is stuck on airplanes and trivial small talk. What unfolds is a delightfully absurd chase against time, where Burns' growing desperation clashes with Allen's oblivious charm, resulting in a burst of laughter rooted in classic vaudeville timing and early sound-era humor. The film's snappy pacing and playful dialogue capture the chaotic energy of early 1930s comedy, making it a time capsule of pre-code charm.
Starring the legendary Burns and Allen duo, *Pulling a Bone* delivers a compact but hilarious snapshot of their signature comedic chemistry, blending physical comedy with rapid-fire banter. The ten-minute runtime keeps the gags tight and the audience grinning, while Bretherton's direction ensures every awkward pause and miscommunication lands with perfect comedic precision. It's a vintage gem for fans of classic Hollywood farce, where even the smallest mishap becomes a source of endless mirth.