Exploring the more childlike qualities and sensitive side to Jerry Lewis and his brand of comedy, The Errand Boy is the story of Lewis' young mail boy who is employed as a spy for a Hollywood studio company to uncover a scheme that is enabling thieves to steal right from underneath the movie Executives noses.
The setting of a Hollywood movie lot is the perfect location for Lewis to play-out his uncontrollable and ingenious sense of humour. As Morty, the studio underling, Lewis wreaks havoc wherever he goes. In the canteen, as an extra on a movie set and even in a props cupboard where he seeks the 'advice' of two finger-puppets. Lewis displays an unlikely and genuine understanding of the struggle a hapless and ne'er-do-well must endure in trying to maintain some sense of pride in his life. The irresistible sense of fun that permeates The Errand Boy enables the audience to become fully immersed in the crazy world of Morty and his boundless imagination.
An enjoyable parody of the American film industry, The Errand Boy contains some of Jerry Lewis' finest comedy moments ever captured on celluloid. A memorable scene in a candy store, where three children take advantage of Morty's good nature - to the point where he is on the verge of a breakdown - ensure that audiences will never forget what Lewis brought to the world of cinema. Subverting dialogue for captivating visual gags, The Errand Boy plays to Lewis' strengths and makes excellent use of the material that comprises the narrative. The film uses to great effect the big-band music of the period and the vast soundstages of the studio echo a bygone era of filmmaking that Lewis sends up in a light hearted and humourous manner.