Plot in a Nutshell: Stan and Ollie engage in another 'mutual destruction' war, this time with an old nemesis (Charlie Hall).
"Tit for Tat" lacks in originality but makes up for it in hilarity. There are familiar plot points here from previous L&H shorts, notably "Big Business" and "Them Thar Hills," the latter being a prequel of sorts to "Tit for Tat." This time L&H have opened a new business downtown but run into trouble with the grocer located next door. The disgruntled husband from "Hills" is back as the grocer (Hall), also with his wife (Mae Busch), and he's not willing to let bygones be bygones. What ensues is a recognizable but still-amusing game of "can you top this?" with the boys and Hall taking turns destroying each other's property, until not much is left standing on either side.
It was nominated for an Academy Award (Best Short - Comedy) for 1935 and it's easy to see why. I can think of a lot worse ways to spend 20 minutes.
8/10. Would I watch again (Y/N)?: Definitely yes.
"Tit for Tat" lacks in originality but makes up for it in hilarity. There are familiar plot points here from previous L&H shorts, notably "Big Business" and "Them Thar Hills," the latter being a prequel of sorts to "Tit for Tat." This time L&H have opened a new business downtown but run into trouble with the grocer located next door. The disgruntled husband from "Hills" is back as the grocer (Hall), also with his wife (Mae Busch), and he's not willing to let bygones be bygones. What ensues is a recognizable but still-amusing game of "can you top this?" with the boys and Hall taking turns destroying each other's property, until not much is left standing on either side.
It was nominated for an Academy Award (Best Short - Comedy) for 1935 and it's easy to see why. I can think of a lot worse ways to spend 20 minutes.
8/10. Would I watch again (Y/N)?: Definitely yes.