Channeling The Marx Brothers

Regarding “The Marx Brothers” (“History Now: Screenings,” August/September 2004) by Alien Barra: He writes no one has “dared, or ever will dare to re-create Groucho, Harpo, Chico, and Zeppo.” Not so! says this retired FDNY fire marshal (he who finds the obvious which somehow has been made obscure).

They have been re-created and turned into one of the most successful and watched television shows ever. Which one? “Seinfeld.” Consider the leader, Jerry, with his insults and even the Groucho whine in his voice. George Costanza, the disingenuous and conniving Chico. Kramer with Harpo’s googly eyes and that through-the-door shtick. Elaine? Of course, the good-looking one. Zeppo! Like the Marx Brothers too, ever funny for, likely, the ages. Reruns here in New York City are currently two per day!