Playing the Ponies

Playing the Ponies is a 1937 short subject directed by Charles Lamont starring American slapstick comedy team The Three Stooges (Moe Howard, Larry Fine and Curly Howard). It is the 26th entry in the series released by Columbia Pictures starring the comedians, who released 190 shorts for the studio between 1934 and 1959.

Plot
The Stooges find themselves disenchanted with their struggling establishment, the Flounder Inn restaurant, where profits dwindle. A fortuitous encounter with two patrons discussing the dire state of their racehorse, Thunderbolt, provides an unexpected opportunity. Prompted by the prospect of capitalizing on the horse's racing potential, the Stooges swiftly pivot from restaurateurs to aspiring racehorse owners, selling their eatery to Thunderbolt's proprietors.

Upon inspecting Thunderbolt's stables, the trio is confronted with the dismal sight of a debilitated horse, its back contorted with swayback. Curly's initial attempt to galvanize Thunderbolt's racing spirit inadvertently leads to a misunderstanding, as he misinterprets instructions and runs alongside the horse. However, an encounter with spicy chili pepperino snacks, mistaken for peanuts, propels Thunderbolt into a frenzied dash towards relief at the sight of water.

Amused yet undeterred by the unexpected turn of events, the Stooges perceive the pepperinos as a potent racing stimulant, envisioning them as a strategic advantage in future competitions. Despite Larry's skepticism, the Stooges eagerly embrace the notion, unaware of the fiery consequences of their actions. The ensuing race unfolds with Thunderbolt's erratic behavior, necessitating an impromptu intervention involving motorcycle-mounted Stooges armed with a bucket of water.

Through a blend of resourcefulness and absurdity, Thunderbolt emerges victorious, securing a triumphant outcome for the Stooges. As they revel in their newfound success, indulging in a feast of turkey and oats, Thunderbolt's unexpected triumph symbolizes both the capriciousness of fortune and the resilience of the human (and equine) spirit in the pursuit of prosperity.

Production notes
Playing the Ponies was filmed on May 12–19, 1937. The film title is a straightforward slang expression meaning "betting on racehorses." It is the second and final Stooges film directed by veteran director Charles Lamont.

A colorized version of this film was released in 2004 as part of the DVD collection entitled "Goofs on the Loose."

Nick Copeland and Lew Davis reprise their roles from the last short, Cash and Carry as two con men who once again try to swindle the Stooges.