A Stooge family reunion: Hold That Lion! (1947)

"Hold That Lion!" was the 100th Three Stooges entry released by Columbia, and includes a slice of comedy history.

Shemp Howard had rejoined the Stooges after younger brother Curly was sidelined with a stroke. Curly makes a cameo appearance in this film, as a passenger on board a train while the Stooges are pursuing a shady con man who holds their inheritance. It's also the only time Curly was seen with a full head of hair, but there's no mistaking that distinctive face.

Eight years later, Shemp passed away, and the downward spiral of the Stooges began with the addition of Joe Besser (ex-The Abbott & Costello Show), who left the team after 2 years (1957-9).

Rating: A.