I almost took most of this week off from the blog, but, as usual, Kevin Tipple came through. Thanks for the review of Jeffrey Cohen’s second Comedy Tonight mystery, It Happened One Knife.
It has been four months since patrons darkened the comedy tonight movie theater in New Jersey.
The balcony has been fixed, the snacks are in a new display case, there are new seats in the
theater and all is right with the world. In fact, Elliot Freed, owner and occasional investigator, is
allowing his projectionist to screen his violent western “Killin’ Time.”
Elliot made a promise and Anthony did his part so the movie is playing to a large crowd. A
movie that Elliot pretty much doesn’t like and not just because it isn’t a comedy. Despite Eliot’s
opinion and probably because it is excessively violent and graphic, the movie is a sure hit
according to the rep for the comedy film distributor.
“‘It’s got blood!’ Vic held up a finger. ‘It’s got cursing.’ Another finger. ‘Killing, sex, cruelty,
character’s nobody could like.’ Finger, finger, finger, thumb on the other hand. It can’t miss.'”
(Page 4)
Vic wants the movie and plans to work a deal with a studio for Anthony and take a piece of the
money along the way. The idea that this gruesome movie could be a hit appalls Elliot who is a
fan of the classic comedy. Almost as appalling is the fact that when Anthony’s one print of the
film turns up missing minutes later, Anthony accuses Elliot of taking it over jealousy and a need
to keep Anthony in his place. Something a number of other folks seem to believe as well.
That storyline becomes secondary to the main point of the book which is Elliot’s opportunity to
show as part of his double feature the legendary comedy movie “Cracked Ice.” Starring a famous
comedy team of Harry Lillis and Les Townes who ruled the mid 1950’s to early 1960’s, the
movie is a personal favorite of Elliot’s. Even better, Vic knows where Harry Lillis is living these
days and that location isn’t too far away giving Elliot a chance to meet one of his idols and have
him come to the theater.
The problem with idols is that too often they are merely mortal men with feet of clay. The image
on screen is far different than the reality and before long Elliot finds himself in a multi decade’s
old murder case involving the comedic duo. A case that, while it was hushed up back in the
powerful movie studio days, once again may cause more death.
And if that isn’t enough, Sharon, Elliot’s ex-wife, just might want to get back together again.
This sequel to the comedic mystery Some Like It Hot Buttered brings
everyone back for another mystery that contains elements of humor and romance. Elliot Freed this sequel to the comedic mystery Some Like It Hot Buttered brings
everyone back for another mystery that contains elements of humor and romance. Elliot Freed has a sarcastic streak that comes out under pressure and frequently comes out once this slow to get going novel moves into gear.
The mysteries are secondary to the character relationships which have driven both books. Family
is important and that means much more than simple blood connections. For Elliot Freed, just
about everyone involved in his life on a steady basis is family and his bike just might be as well.
Filled with references to comedy movies and other trivia, Jeff Cohen has created another
enjoyable tale of romance, crime, and comedy. It may not split your sides with laughter, like the
Aaron Tucker series frequently will, but you will get plenty of chuckles along the way.
This book was provided by the Allen Public Library of Allen, Texas by way of the Plano, Texas
Public Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple © 2009, 2024
