Frankie Darro in Irish Luck (1939)

Frankie Darro and Mantan Moreland were paired together for the first time in this International Renters, Ltd (Monogram Pictures) film, Irish Luck (1939). In the film (affiliate link), Frankie Darro plays “Buzzy” O’Brien, a hotel bellhop, while Mantan Moreland is Jefferson, the hotel porter.

“Buzzy’s” father was a police officer killed in the line of duty. “Buzzy” wants to be a detective, so he is constantly on the watch for criminal activity at the hotel. In the beginning of the film, Jefferson attracts the attention of the police by moving a mannequin back and forth on the ledge of the roof to attract the police’s attention. “Buzzy” is keeping an eye on some bond thieves until Steve Lanahan, a police lieutenant arrives.

Lanahan is an old friend of “Buzzy’s” dad. He saves “Buzzy” and warns him about continuing to try and be a detective. Of course, “Buzzy” ignores him or the film would be over. “Buzzy” continues hunting the mystery man or woman. Jefferson is his unwilling partner.

I was surprised about Darro and Moreland being paired together as a mixed race buddies in a 1930s film. While Moreland portrays a number of the stereotypes of the time, Darro’s characters always treat him with friendship and respect.

If you can get past the distasteful stereotypes, Mantan Moreland delivers another spell binding performance. Moreland was a born performer, who you were drawn to when he was on the screen.

Frankie Darro was born Frank Johnson, Jr. on December 22, 1917. His parents were a circus act called The Flying Johnsons. However, they divorced when Frankie was still very young. Frankie then transitioned to making films at six years of age..

He signed with Monogram Pictures in 1938. His series of “B” films were among the most popular at Monogram. Many of Monograms other main players made appearances in Darro’s films. Mantan Moreland was one of his most frequent co-stars.

Darro like so many stars before him struggled with alcohol. He opened a bar in the 1950s, which ended his film career and eventually his life. He passed away on Christmas Day, December 25, 1976 at the age of 59. He left behind a rich filmography of 193 titles.

This film is an enjoyable comedy-mystery, which only runs 51 minutes. If you watch this film, let me know how enjoyable you found the movie. You can leave a comment or ask a question about this or any post on my Facebook page and Twitter profile.

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