The Bank Dick, Edward Cline (U.S., 1940)

Set a comedy in Lompoc and you’re off to an intoxicating start, add W.C. Fields as Egbert Sousé, blotto deluxe, and you have the makings for a crazy cocktail. Accidentally bagging a bank robber, Mr. Sousé ends up as a security guard at the local S&L where he immediately sets his sights on other people’s money. Swindles lead to cons that lead to, of all things, Mr. Fields handling the getaway car in a chase that would drive anyone to drink. As W.C. himself might slur: “Don’t be a mooncalf! Don’t be a jabbernowl!” Don't miss this besotted blockbuster.

—Steve Seid

• Written by Mahatma Kane Jeeves (W. C. Fields). With W. C. Fields, Cora Witherspoon, Una Merkel, Franklin Pangborn. (74 mins, B&W, 35mm, From Universal Pictures)