Behind the Eight Ball is a 1942 American comedy film directed by Edward F. Cline and written by Stanley Roberts and Mel Ronson.

[1][2][3] A summer stock theatre is plagued by a series of backstage murders and sabotage.

When the latest group to play there arrives and is informed of the situation, the least talented members of the troupe, The Ritz Brothers, are promoted to headliners under the reasoning that they are the most expendable.

Detective Demarest is tasked with investigating the murders, but is frequently hindered by The Ritz Brothers.

Upon this victory, The Ritz Brothers finally make headlines as a result of their own efforts.