Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Abbott & Costello 42-10-15 (015) Bank Robbery with Marlene Dietrich
Release Date: January 28, 2025

Overview

In this engaging episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, featuring the beloved comedic duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. The episode, titled "Bank Robbery with Marlene Dietrich," blends classic humor with a captivating bank heist storyline, all while showcasing the timeless charm of its guest star, Marlene Dietrich. The narrative is interspersed with musical interludes and humorous banter, providing a rich and entertaining experience reminiscent of a bygone era.

Main Characters and Setup

Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, the iconic comedy team, open the show with their characteristic witty exchanges. The chemistry between Abbott and Costello sets a lighthearted tone as they navigate everyday absurdities.

• Bud Abbott introduces the program with a playful nod to Camels cigarettes:
  [00:47] Bud Abbott: "Camels the cigarette that's first in the service. Present the Abbott and Costello program."

• Lou Costello immediately engages in comedic dialogue, discussing mundane yet exaggerated problems, such as trying to retrieve a car from a swimming pool:
  [01:15] Lou Costello: "Oh, Abbot. Will you stop that noise? What are you doing here in the studio dressed in your bathing suit? Well, I spent all day trying to get my car out of the swimming pool."

Their interactions are filled with the classic Abbott and Costello miscommunications and slapstick humor that fans cherish.

Plot Development: The Bank Robbery

The episode takes a thrilling turn as Lou Costello becomes inadvertently involved in a bank robbery, leading to a series of comedic yet suspenseful events aimed at clearing his name.

• A pivotal moment occurs when Costello discovers a roll of money after a bank raid:
  [09:09] Ken Niles: "Costello, where did you get that roll of bills?"
  [09:27] Lou Costello: "I went outside for a minute. Just when I reached the corner, a guy ran out of the bank with a bag full of money. And he gave me some."

• The tension escalates as Laurene Dietrich's character, Marlene Dietrich, interacts with the duo, introducing intrigue and complexity to the plot:
  [20:27] Marlene Dietrich: "Hello, boys."
  [20:29] Ken Niles: "Hello, boys. How big are men where you come from?"

• Costello grapples with the consequences of his actions, leading to a humorous confrontation with Marlene Dietrich's character, who ultimately reveals herself as the notorious Black Pete:
  [24:54] Marlene Dietrich: "Now, wait a minute, boys. It's not necessary to look any further. I am Black Pete."

• A comedic chase ensues, blending suspense with the signature Abbott and Costello humor:
  [25:11] Ken Niles: "Look, Abbott, what a cute bank. What a place to make a deposit."
  [25:25] Ken Niles: "Look, Abbott, what a cute bank. What a place to make a deposit. Oh, Marlena, if I give you all my money from the bank, will you put it in your other stocking?"

Guest Appearance: Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich's guest appearance adds a layer of sophistication and glamour to the episode. Her interactions with Abbott and Costello are laced with humor and wit, enhancing the overall narrative.

• Marlene Dietrich engages in flirtatious banter with Ken Niles:
  [21:52] Marlene Dietrich: "You know, little fat man, I could go for someone like you."

• The chemistry between Dietrich and the comedic duo creates memorable moments, exemplifying the seamless blend of drama and comedy:
  [23:22] Ken Niles: "There's an echo in the joint. Well, there's no question about it, Costello. Marlena Dietrich just can't be bothered with a man like you."
  [23:33] Marlene Dietrich: "Oh, Lou, if you only had the eyes of Clark Gable."

Musical Interludes: Cowboy Boogie

Interspersed within the comedic and dramatic segments are lively musical performances that reflect the era's radio show format.

• Connie Haynes and the Camel Quintet perform "Cow Cow Boogie," adding energy and a touch of the Old West ambiance:
  [16:07] Connie Haynes: "Out on the plains down near Santa Fe I met a cowboy riding the range one day..."

• The musical breaks provide a rhythmic balance to the show's pacing, keeping listeners engaged and entertained.

Climax and Resolution

The episode reaches its climax as Abbott and Costello confront Black Pete in the lawless town of Deadpan Gulch. The confrontation is both humorous and suspenseful, culminating in the revelation of Marlene Dietrich's true identity as the bank robber.

• Black Pete (Marlene Dietrich) delivers a dramatic confession:
  [25:05] Marlene Dietrich: "It is true. I took the money from the bank, but I did not steal it. It was my own money. It was my pin money."

• The resolution sees Costello grappling with the aftermath of the robbery and the comedic fallout of his actions:
  [26:00] Bud Abbott: "Before we hear from Abbott and Costello again, do you want to find out how hitting ground feels to a paratrooper?"

Conclusion and Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with a preview of the next week's show, featuring a boxing match with John Garfield and additional advertisements that hark back to the period's sponsorship style. The closing segments maintain the nostalgic feel, ensuring listeners look forward to future adventures of Abbott and Costello.

• Bud Abbott teases the next episode:
  [26:45] Bud Abbott: "And here's Connie Haynes with a Campbell quintet to sing a new tune of the Old West. Cow cow boogie."

• A humorous preview showcases Costello in a boxing match:
  [28:29] Ken Niles: "Thousands of people are assembled in Madison Square Garden. All eyes are focused on the two fighters in the center of the ring, Killer Garfield and Kewpie Costello."

Notable Quotes

• Lou Costello on his misadventures:
  [07:40] "I lost my sugar ration card."

• Bud Abbott highlighting the importance of camaraderie:
  [02:38] "After all, I could give the Program a lift. I'm a shot in the arm."

• Ken Niles on his role and frustrations:
  [04:35] "There's nothing but talk on the program. And who wants to hear a lot of talk?"

• Marlene Dietrich emphasizing her dual identity:
  [24:54] "I am Black Pete."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio" masterfully weaves together comedy, drama, and music, offering a nostalgic yet fresh take on classic radio entertainment. The impeccable timing of Abbott and Costello, coupled with Marlene Dietrich's captivating performance, creates a memorable listening experience that honors the spirit of the Golden Age of Radio.

Listeners who appreciate witty banter, engaging storylines, and musical interludes will find this episode particularly enjoyable. Whether revisiting old favorites or discovering Abbott and Costello for the first time, "Bank Robbery with Marlene Dietrich" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of radio's golden years.