Jack and the Beanstalk (1952) | Directed by Jean Yarbrough

"Jack and the Beanstalk" (1952) is a comedic fantasy film featuring the iconic comedy duo Abbott and Costello. It is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale with a humorous twist, combining slapstick comedy with adventure and fantasy elements. This film was made during the height of Abbott and Costello's popularity and is notable for its playful combination of live-action with the classic fairy tale narrative.

The story begins with Abbott and Costello’s characters, Jack and Dink, who are tasked with babysitting a young boy. While babysitting, the boy asks Jack to read him the story of *Jack and the Beanstalk*. As Jack begins to tell the story, he imagines himself as the hero, and the film transitions into the fantasy world of the fairy tale. In this imagined world, Jack (Costello) climbs the magical beanstalk to a giant's castle in the clouds after trading his cow for magic beans. With Dink (Abbott) by his side, Jack embarks on a series of comedic adventures as they try to outwit the giant and rescue a princess.

The film makes use of vibrant Technicolor to enhance its fantasy sequences and is remembered for its lively musical numbers and humor typical of Abbott and Costello's style.

- Bud Abbott as Dink (Jack's sidekick)
- Lou Costello as Jack (the hero who climbs the beanstalk)
- Shaye Cogan as The Princess, who is held captive by the giant
- James Alexander as The Prince, who aids Jack in the adventure
- Buddy Baer as The Giant, the antagonist who Jack must defeat
- Dorothy Ford as Polly, Jack’s love interest before the fairy tale begins

Jean Yarbrough directed the film. Yarbrough frequently worked with Abbott and Costello, and his direction in *Jack and the Beanstalk* allowed the comedic duo's slapstick humor to shine in the whimsical fantasy setting.

The film combines classic fairy tale storytelling with Abbott and Costello’s signature comedic style, making it a family-friendly movie with plenty of humor and adventure.