I have always said that the difference between the BOWERY BOYS films of the 1940s, as compared to the 1950s episodes, was a heavy dose of drama. This actually came from the the EAST SIDE KIDS movies, which preceded the Bowery Boys. Here, FIGHTING FOOLS relies on a more structured plot in which a boxer is killed in the ring. The gang has to figure out whodunit, add more drama and even a side story concerning alcoholism. Familiar
juvenile actor Frankie Darro is featured here, and in a straight role, going after the killers of his brother and at the same time attempting to expose corruption in the boxing arena. Also to note that Huntz Hall has some dramatic scenes, far from his usual zany escapades. Make no mistake, though, Leo Gorcey delivers his usual line of
memorable malaprops and one liners to tie this one together. Veteran B director Reginald Le Borg was called in as the Boys were trying out different directors, though William Beaudine managed the bulk of the episodes quite well, cranking out one after another, on time, watching expenses and, especially, letting Gorcey and Hall work their ad-lib, unscripted magic. A solid series entry, one of the first to be put on dvd via Warner Brothers box set.
