Where the Pest Begins

Jonathan Bass (Tom Kennedy), an inventor working for the government, makes the mistake of his life. He moves next door to Shemp. Lazy, obtuse and obnoxious, Shemp plays the good neighbor by wrecking the Bass' garage, car and china... and somehow makes it look to Bass' wife (Christine McIntyre) that Jonathan is clumsily at fault. Bass' latest project is a new bomb for the Army, and it's only a matter of time before helpful Shemp turns up in the laboratory basement offering his assistance.

Directed by Harry Edwards, Where the Pest Begins leans on a strong ensemble — Shemp Howard, Tom Kennedy, Christine McIntyre — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1945.