Animal Crackers is a 1930 American pre-Code comedy film starring the Marx Brothers and directed by Victor Heerman. It is based on the brothers' successful 1928 Broadway musical of the same name by George S. Kaufman and Morrie Ryskind, and features Groucho, Harpo, Chico, and Zeppo Marx alongside Margaret Dumont and Lillian Roth. The story centers on a Long Island society party honoring eccentric African explorer Captain Jeffrey T. Spaulding (Groucho), where multiple schemes involving a valuable painting lead to conflict.

Plot

Society matron Mrs. Rittenhouse hosts a weekend party at her Long Island mansion in honor of renowned African explorer Captain Jeffrey T. Spaulding, who has recently returned from his expeditions. The evening's entertainment includes the unveiling of art patron Roscoe W. Chandler's newly acquired painting, After The Hunt, by the artist Beaugard. Musical accompaniment is provided by Signor Emanuel Ravelli and his silent partner, known only as the Professor. Captain Spaulding arrives in a sedan chair to cheers ("Hooray for Captain Spaulding") and announces his immediate departure ("Hello, I Must Be Going").