Bellboy

Lewis also appears in a speaking role playing himself escorted by a large entourage, as his bellhop counterpart simultaneously emerges from a crowded elevator. Principal photography took place from February 8 to March 5, 1960 and marked Jerry Lewis's debut as a director. Filming took place at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida; Lewis would film during the day and perform in the nightclub at night. [l] Before he began, Lewis consulted his friend Stan Laurel about the script.Since Laurel had worked in silent films and was familiar with pantomime, he offered suggestions. It is unknown if Lewis actually used any of Laurel's ideas in the production. [2] But it is believed Lewis paid homage to the comic by naming his character ‘Stanley' after him. A Stan Laurel-like character also appears throughout the story, portrayed by writer and impressionist Bill Richmond. The film marked an pioneering use of a video assist system, providingLewis a way to see the action even though he was in the scene. [3] Paramount wanted to have a Jerry Lewis movie for summer release (in North America). The movie that it wanted to release was Cinderfella, which had finished shooting in December 1959. Lewis wanted to hold back the release of that movie for the Christmas 1960 holiday and Paramount only agreed if Jerry could deliver another movie for summer. Therefore, while playing an engagement in Miami Beach, Lewis came up with this.