it played to mixed reviews with some criticizing its excessive comedy with too many comedians thereby losing its focus. nonetheless, it was kramer's biggest box office hit, and the public enjoyed its "socially disruptive and goofy" story and acting. film critic dwight macdonald writes that its "small army of actors—105 speaking roles—inflict mayhem on each other with cars, planes, explosives and other devices . . . is simply too much for the human eye and ear to respond to, let alone the funny bone," calling it "hard-core slapstick." it was nominated for six academy awards, winning for best sound editing.