Stuff You Should Know – Short Stuff: Pie-In-The-Face Gag

Intro

In this episode of “Stuff You Should Know,” the hosts explore the history and evolution of the pie-in-the-face gag. From its origins in Vaudeville to its iconic status in comedy films, they delve into the unwritten rules, techniques, and modern spoofs of this classic comedic act.

Main Takeaways

Origins and Evolution of the Pie-in-the-Face Gag

• Pie-in-the-face gag started in Vaudeville with a Canadian performer named Doc Kelly.
• Keystone Studios became known for their pie in the face gags and had their own bakery to supply pies for their movies.
• Laurel and Hardy’s film Battle of the Century in 1927 brought the pie gag back with a vengeance, using 4,500 pies in the film.
• The pie gag had unwritten rules, such as only hitting someone who deserved it, like a phony or someone who needed a comeuppance.
• Pies had to be baked to brittleness and double-layered crusts to prevent injury from the tin pie tins.

Techniques and Modern Spoofs

• Modern spoofs of the pie gag often use fake pies made of whipped cream or shaving cream, which is a cheap way out.
• Buster Keaton had rules for the pie gag, including not turning around too early to avoid flinching and ruining the shot.
• Cool Whip was originally used as a substitute for shaving cream in the pie gag.
• Pies can be made with shaving cream instead of real filling to avoid spoilage.
• Pie throwing has been a comedic tradition in movies since the 1960s.

Social Commentary and Controversies

• Pie throwing started as a way to take powerful people down a peg.
• Fatty Arbuckle and the Stooges were legendary pie throwers.
• The Biotic Baking Brigade suggested pieing neo-Nazis, Klansmen, and homophobic preachers.

Summary

The Origins and Evolution of the Pie-in-the-Face Gag

The pie-in-the-face gag originated in Vaudeville with a performer named Doc Kelly. However, it gained significant popularity when Keystone Studios incorporated it into their films and even had their own bakery to supply pies. Laurel and Hardy’s film Battle of the Century in 1927 brought the pie gag back with a vengeance, using an astounding 4,500 pies. The gag had unwritten rules, ensuring that only deserving individuals were targeted. Pies had to be baked to brittleness and with double-layered crusts to prevent injury.

Techniques and Modern Spoofs

Modern spoofs of the pie gag often use fake pies made of whipped cream or shaving cream, which is a more cost-effective option. Buster Keaton, a renowned comedian, had specific rules for the pie gag, such as not turning around too early to maintain the comedic timing. Cool Whip even found its way into the pie gag as a substitute for shaving cream. Additionally, pies can be made with shaving cream instead of real filling to avoid spoilage. Pie throwing has become a comedic tradition in movies since the 1960s.

Social Commentary and Controversies

While the pie-in-the-face gag is primarily a comedic act, it has also served as a form of social commentary. It started as a way to humble powerful individuals, and legendary comedians like Fatty Arbuckle and the Stooges were known for their pie throwing skills. The Biotic Baking Brigade even suggested pieing neo-Nazis, Klansmen, and homophobic preachers as a means of protest against hate speech and discrimination.

Conclusion

The pie-in-the-face gag has a rich history in entertainment, from its humble beginnings in Vaudeville to its widespread popularity in comedy films. It has evolved over the years, with modern spoofs using fake pies and comedians developing techniques to enhance the comedic effect. Beyond its comedic value, the pie gag has also been used as a form of social commentary, targeting those in positions of power. Whether it’s a classic black-and-white film or a contemporary comedic skit, the pie-in-the-face gag continues to bring laughter to audiences worldwide.