As Groucho Marx takes the stage at Carnegie Hall in 1972, his triumphant return becomes a gateway to the past, where the rise of the Marx Brothers from a struggling immigrant family to comedic legends unfolds. Through the sharp wit of an older Groucho, who reflects on fame, loss, and family, Hello, I Must Be Going weaves a heartfelt and hilarious tale of resilience, chaos, and the timeless power of laughter.

SYNOPSIS:

Set against the vibrant tapestry of vaudeville, Broadway, and early Hollywood, Hello, I Must Be Going tells the remarkable and bittersweet story of the Marx Brothers through the eyes of their most iconic member, Groucho Marx. Framed by Groucho’s triumphant 1972 performance at Carnegie Hall, the film masterfully weaves past and present, blending the energy of their heyday with the poignant reflections of an older, wiser Groucho.

As Groucho captivates the Carnegie Hall audience with his razor-sharp wit and timeless charm, he becomes both narrator and participant, his older self-appearing on screen to reflect on the family’s journey. The story flashes back to their humble beginnings in New York’s tenements, where their indomitable mother, Minnie, fosters their talents and pushes them toward stardom.

The film charts their meteoric rise from chaotic vaudeville acts to Broadway darlings and finally to Hollywood legends. Along the way, we witness the brothers’ unique dynamics: Groucho, the sardonic genius; Chico, the charming gambler; Harpo, the silent anarchist; and Zeppo’s often overlooked but essential role in the group’s chemistry. Not forgetting Gummo, the dependable brother who steps away from the stage to support the family behind the scenes. Moments of humour are balanced by heartfelt drama, including the devastating loss of Minnie, the challenges of the Great Depression, and Groucho’s personal struggle to balance his comedic persona with the weight of family responsibility.

A particularly clever device is the interplay between the older Groucho and his younger self. Whether reacting to pivotal moments like their groundbreaking success in The Cocoanuts and Animal Crackers or grappling with personal loss, the older Groucho’s wry, introspective commentary adds depth and humour, offering audiences a glimpse into his complex inner world.

At its heart, Hello, I Must Be Going is more than a biopic. It’s a celebration of the resilience, chaos, and enduring legacy of the Marx Brothers. It captures their ability to transform adversity into laughter and their timeless impact on comedy and culture. Perfect for fans of Chaplin and My Week with Marilyn, the film blends humour, heart, and history to tell a story that is as poignant as it is entertaining.

As the final curtain falls at Carnegie Hall, the film leaves viewers with Groucho’s immortal words: “Hello, I must be going”—a fitting tribute to a life spent making the world laugh.