Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Hollywood Casting Office 1935 Ep001 Mr Gad Zooks"
Episode Overview
In the inaugural episode of "Hollywood Casting Office 1935," titled "Mr. Gad Zooks," host Harold's Old Time Radio transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. Set in a bustling Hollywood casting office during the mid-1930s, the episode offers an engaging glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of film auditions, director interactions, and the colorful personalities striving for stardom in the era before television captivated families nationwide.
Setting the Scene: The Bustling Casting Office
The episode opens with the animated sounds of a lively casting office. Mr. Jameson exclaims, "Hollywood casting office. Lights, camera, action" at [00:01], immediately immersing listeners in the vibrant atmosphere of film production. Sam, another key player, responds promptly, "Ready on stage six for the lineup" at [00:09], indicating the anticipation of upcoming auditions.
Ms. Hap, presumably the receptionist, greets Henry Hockboomer with the line, "Hollywood casting office. Henry Hockboomer. Yes, we can use you tomorrow. 8:30, weather permitting. Pays $5. Wear your fall suit" at [00:17]. The ensuing exchange humorously reveals Hockboomer's reluctance, leading Ms. Hap to suggest, "Wear a summer suit" at [00:57], highlighting the light-hearted yet professional tone of the office interactions.
Mr. Gadzooks' Audition: A Glimpse into Aspiring Stardom
Enter Mr. Gadzooks, an eager actor seeking a role. At [02:03], Ms. Hap welcomes him, prompting his formal introduction: "How do you do, madam? I am an actor, madam. 20 years with Irving, madam. Is the casting director in, madam?" This humorous repetition underscores the formality and perhaps the anxiety actors felt during auditions.
As Mr. Gadzooks reminisces, "I should never have left Broadway. E gad ods bodkins and Gad zooks" at [02:18], his frustration with the transition into motion pictures becomes evident. Ms. Hap introduces him to Mr. Jameson, the casting director, who requests a sample of his talent at [02:29].
Mr. Zooks delivers a dramatic monologue: "And 20 years ago was the time for every good man to come to the aid of his party. Alas, poor Yorick. I knew him well" at [02:47]. While Mr. Jameson appreciates the effort, he critiques, "You didn't put enough fire into your speech" at [02:54], prompting Ms. Hap to quip, "Sound to me like he didn't put enough of his speech in the fire" at [02:58]. This exchange highlights the high standards and critical feedback inherent in the casting process.
Behind the Scenes: Director Green and Production Realities
Mr. Jameson abruptly leaves to oversee a shooting sequence for a Tahitian picture, exclaiming, "Poi and I want to see how that quartet of native boys I hired last week to see how they're getting along" at [03:15]. This sudden departure underscores the fast-paced nature of film production, where casting and shooting schedules often intertwine.
At [03:22], Mr. Green, presumably a director, engages in casual banter about a French star struggling with her accent: "She's had the English tutor for six weeks and you can still tell she comes from Brooklyn" at [05:42]. Mr. Jameson consoles him, "we all make mistakes. That's why we have Reno" at [05:57], referencing the famous Reno auditions process, and quips about eccentric dancers not being commonplace: "eccentric dancers don't grow on trees" at [06:03]. This dialogue offers insight into the challenges directors face in refining actors' performances to meet cinematic standards.
The Musical Auditions: Talent and Eccentricity Collide
The episode transitions to the audition of three waitresses from the commissary who aspire to sing and have studied in Paris. Ms. Hap introduces them: "Well, Girls, come in. Mr. Jameson will hear you" at [06:55], only to present a humorous and somewhat unconventional performance by Jesse Crier at [07:31].
Jesse Crier delivers a quirky rendition of a love song with lines like, "Oh, sweet and lovely lady, be good oh, lady, be good to me" at [11:20]. His performance is interspersed with comedic interruptions, such as his playful declaration, "I'm like a babe that's belongs in the woods" at [11:07], adding a layer of humor and character depth to the audition process.
When asked by Director Green to add novelty to the performance, Mr. Crier passionately responds, "Well, how would you like to hear me yodel and play the guitar?" at [12:03], despite lacking an actual guitar. His persistence and creativity culminate in an impromptu musical act, demonstrating the lengths performers would go to secure a role.
Director Green concludes, "Well, that was fine, Mr. Crier. I'm afraid of this, but I'll take a chance. Come in" at [12:51], indicating a favorable outcome from the unconventional audition, yet hinting at the unpredictability of casting decisions.
Humorous Interlude: Sam's Dollar Dilemma
Adding a comedic twist, Sam confronts Mr. Jameson seeking to borrow a dollar. Their exchange begins at [12:57], with Sam stating, "Well, I only came in to borrow a dollar" and Mr. Jameson retorting, "You have a lot of nerve asking me for a dollar" at [13:01]. The banter escalates as Sam demands, "Either give me the dollar or don't give me the dollar" at [13:04], showcasing the everyday struggles and humor within the office environment.
Conclusion: A Snapshot of 1930s Hollywood Casting
As the episode draws to a close, listeners are left with a vivid portrayal of the Hollywood casting scene in 1935. From the earnest auditions of actors like Mr. Gadzooks and Jesse Crier to the behind-the-scenes interactions between Mr. Jameson, Mr. Green, and Ms. Hap, the episode encapsulates the hopes, challenges, and camaraderie that defined the Golden Age of Radio and early Hollywood cinema.
Notable Quotes
- Mr. Jameson at [00:01]: "Hollywood casting office. Lights, camera, action."
- Ms. Hap at [02:03]: "Come in, come in. My goodness."
- Mr. Zooks at [02:05]: "How do you do, madam? I am an actor, madam. 20 years with Irving, madam."
- Mr. Jameson at [02:54]: "You didn't put enough fire into your speech."
- Ms. Hap at [02:58]: "Sound to me like he didn't put enough of his speech in the fire."
- Mr. Crier at [12:03]: "Well, how would you like to hear me yodel and play the guitar?"
- Mr. Jameson at [13:01]: "You have a lot of nerve asking me for a dollar."
This episode of "Hollywood Casting Office 1935" masterfully blends drama, humor, and the intricate dynamics of the casting process, offering listeners an entertaining and insightful journey into the heart of 1930s Hollywood.