Robert F. McGowan

full name: Robert Francis McGowan
nickname: "Uncle Bob"
born July 11, 1882, in Denver, CO
died Jan. 27, 1955, in Santa Monica, CA, of cancer

McGowan was primarily raised by his older brother after their father died at the hands of juvenile delinquents. He knew fellow Roach director Fred Newmeyer during his early days in Denver. He became a fire fighter and suffered a serious injury which eventually caused gangrene to set into his foot. The older brother refused to allow the doctors to amputate the leg and the injury was treated with morphine instead. McGowan was able to keep his leg, but walked with a limp for the rest of his life. His first brush with the film world was when he bought partial interest in a nickelodeon.

1913

After receiving his pension, McGowan went to Hollywood and became an assistant property man at Universal, where he met future Roach colleague Charles Oelze. Eventually, he also sold stories to Universal.

1915

Around this time, McGowan had started to write stories for Al Christie at the Nestor studio, where he also occasionally directed. His filmography for the next few years is incomplete.

In Search Of A Wife (story): Nov. 23, 1915 - Gold Seal/Universal - 2 reels; ©Nov. 15, 1915.

1916

Mingling Spirits (story): Jan. 17, 1916 - Nestor/Universal - 1 reel - Betty Compson series; ©Jan. 10, 1916.
After The Play (story): Feb. 25, 1916 - Victor/Universal - 1 reel; ©Feb. 18, 1916.
Their Only Son (director/scenario): Mar. 6, 1916 - Nestor/Universal - 1 reel; ©Feb. 28, 1916.
Her Celluloid Hero (story): May 22, 1916 - Nestor/Universal - 1 reel - Betty Compson series; ©May 15, 1916.
Almost A Widow (story): June 19, 1916 - Nestor/Universal - 1 reel - Betty Compson series; Also listed for 1915. ©June 8, 1916.
How Do You Feel? (story): Nov. 20, 1916 - Nestor/Universal - 1 reel; ©Nov. 10, 1916.

1917

By this time, Al Christie had started his own studio. McGowan followed him there and eventually piloted a kid series for Christie.

A Blessed Blunder (scenario): c. 1917 - Christie; This film is mentioned in the 1920 Motion Picture Studio Directory and Trade Annual among McGowan's accomplishments, but does not appear in IMDb.
A Bold, Bad Knight (small role): June 18, 1917 - Christie - 1 reel - Betty Compson series
He Fell On The Beach (scenario): July 14, 1917 - Christie - 1 reel
Almost A Bigamist (co-writer): Nov. 1, 1917 - Christie - Betty Compson series
Love And Locksmiths (story): Nov. 3, 1917 - Christie - 1 reel - Betty Compson series
Nearly A Papa (story): Dec. 10, 1917 - Christie - 1 reel - Betty Compson series
Betty Wakes Up (director/co-writer): Dec. 21, 1917 - Christie - 2 reels - Betty Compson series
Their Seaside Tangle (scenario): Dec. 22, 1917 - Christie - 2 reels - Betty Compson series

1918

After leaving Christie, McGowan free-lanced for the next couple of years.

Five To Five (story): Jan. 12, 1918 - Christie - 1 reel
Somebody's Baby (scenario): Apr. 29, 1918 - Christie - 1 reel - Betty Compson series

1919

By the early part of this year, McGowan had begun to write short subject scenarios for films starring Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven.

The Devil's Trail (small role): June 16, 1919 - World - 5 reels - Betty Compson feature; Credited as Robert Magowan.
Their Day Of Rest (writer): June 29, 1919 - National/Goldwyn - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series
Close To Nature (writer): Aug. 24, 1919 - National/Goldwyn - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series
The Little Dears (story): Dec. 14, 1919 - National/Goldwyn - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©Jan. 25, 1920.
A Sure Cure (story): Dec. 28, 1919 - National/Goldwyn - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©Jan. 11, 1920 as The Sure Cure. Credited as Bob McGowan. IMDb credits Robert A. McGowan.
After The Ball (writer): 1919/20 - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; This is listed in the 1920 Motion Picture Studio Directory and Trade Annual as one of McGowan's recent achievements, but is not listed in IMDb.

1920

The 1920 Motion Picture Studio Directory and Trade Annual states that McGowan had written and produced nearly 100 comedies by this time. In fact, when it comes to the De Haven series, it states that he was 'assisting writing and producing.' By this time, Charles Parrott (later Chase) was also working on the De Haven series, as a director.

Hoodooed (co-scenario): Feb. 22, 1920 - Paramount-De Haven/Famous-Lasky - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; Filmed in 1919. ©Jan. 17, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Rare Bits (scenario): Apr. 4, 1920 - National-Goldwyn - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©May 16, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Teasing The Soil (scenario): May 9, 1920 - Paramount-De Haven/Famous-Lasky - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; Also listed for Mar. 14, 1920. ©Feb. 7, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Beating Cheaters (scenario): May 20, 1920 - Paramount/Famous-Lasky - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©May 17, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Kids Is Kids (adaptation): Sep. 12, 1920 - Paramount/Famous-Lasky - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©Sep. 3, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Spirits (story): Oct. 10, 1920 - Paramount/Famous-Lasky - 2 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven series; ©Sep. 16, 1920. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Twin Beds (co-adaptation/co-assistant director): Oct. 31, 1920 - De Haven/First National - 6 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven feature; ©Mar. 23, 1921. Credited as Bob McGowan.

1921

Sometime during this year, McGowan left the De Havens and began writing scenarios for the Eddie Lyons series released by Arrow. Late in the year, Parrott brought McGowan to Hal Roach Studios as a gagman and scenario writer for the Our Gang series.

The Girl In The Taxi (adaptation): Apr. 1921 - De Haven/First National - 6 reels - Mr. and Mrs. Carter De Haven feature; ©Apr. 26, 1921. Credited as Bob McGowan. IMDb credits Robert A. McGowan.

1922

Initially, McGowan was a writer for the Our Gang series, but he quickly became a director, collaborating with Tom McNamara. Presumably, he continued to contribute gags to the films, but there isn't any specific information about this.

Do You Take? (scenario): Feb. 15, 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Speed Comedies with Eddie Lyons; ©Dec. 17, 1921. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Just A Minute (scenario): c. 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Feb. 23, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Keep Moving (scenario): c. 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Feb. 23, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
My Mistake (scenario): Mar. 25, 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Feb. 6, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Why Not Now? (scenario): Apr. 25, 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Apr. 4, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Follow Me (scenario): May 25, 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Apr. 25, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
Give Him Air (co-scenario): June 30, 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Mirthquake Comedies with Eddie Lyons; ©June 19, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
My Hero (scenario): c. 1922 - Lyons/Arrow - 2 reels - Eddie Lyons series; ©Aug. 10, 1922. Credited as Bob McGowan.
4. One Terrible Day (co-director): Sep. 10, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-4 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 22 to June 10, 1922. ©Oct. 9, 1922.
2. Fire Fighters (co-director/co-writer): Oct. 8, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-2 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 27 to Apr. 1, 1922. ©Oct. 9, 1922.
1. Our Gang (co-director): Nov. 5, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-1 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 3 to 17, 1922, with retakes Jan. 18 to 19, and Feb. 2 to 17, 1922. ©Oct. 11, 1922. McGowan directed only the retakes, but received sole credit.
3. Young Sherlocks (co-director): Nov. 26, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-3 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 3 to 8, and Apr. 24 to May 20, 1922. ©Nov. 11, 1922.
6. Saturday Morning (co-director): Dec. 3, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-6 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 8 to 25, 1922. ©Nov. 11, 1922.
5. A Quiet Street (co-director): Dec. 31, 1922 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-5 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 13 to July 1, and July 26 to 27, 1922. ©Nov. 11, 1922.

1923

Presumably, McGowan had some type of participation on the two McNamara-directed Our Gang shorts "The Cobbler" and "Boys To Board." With the departure of Tom McNamara around June, McGowan briefly had the Our Gang series to himself. In July, McGowan and fellow director Charles Parrott began a comedy director's workshop on the lot, which was abandoned after a short time. Around September, Mark Goldaine joined the studio to share the Our Gang directorial duties with McGowan.

9. The Champeen! (director): Jan. 28, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-9 - Our Gang series; Filmed around late August/September 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
7. The Big Show (director): Feb. 25, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-7 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 28 to Aug. 15, 1922, with added scenes Sep. 11 to 16, and Sep. 20 to 28, 1922, and retakes Jan. 10 to 11, 1923. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
11. A Pleasant Journey (director/bit role: pedestrian): Mar. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-11 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Mar. 25, 1923. Filmed Oct. 22 to 27, and Nov. 2 to 16, 1922. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
12. Giants Vs. Yanks (director): May 13, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-12 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 20 to Dec. 19, 1922, and Feb. 15, 1923. ©Apr. 27, 1923.
13. Back Stage (co-director/bit role: man crossing street): June 3, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-13 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 15, 1922, to Jan. 9, 1923. ©June 6, 1923.
14. Dogs Of War! (director): July 1, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-14 - Our Gang series; Premiered June 10, 1923. Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 10, 1923, with retakes Feb. 20 to 23, and Apr. 11, 1923. ©July 19, 1923.
15. Lodge Night (director/use of name): July 29, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-15 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 12 to Mar. 3, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923. Appearing in this film is a wanted poster for Big "Bob" McGowan.
18. July Days (co-director): Aug. 26, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-18 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 11, Apr. 12 to May 2, and May 31, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923. McGowan directed every day except Apr. 12th and received sole credit.
20. No Noise (director): Sep. 23, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-20 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 1 to 20, 1923. ©Sep. 24, 1923.
17. Stage Fright (co-director): Oct. 21, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-17 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 17 to Apr. 11, 1923, with retakes June 21 to July 2, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923. McGowan directed only the retakes, but received sole credit.
21. Derby Day (director): Nov. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-21 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 18 to Aug. 13, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923.
19. Sunday Calm (co-director): Dec. 16, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-19 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 4 to 29, 1923, with retakes July 2 to 14, and Oct. 2, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923. McGowan directed only on the July dates, but received sole credit.

1924

Goldaine left the studio around March, which left the Our Gang series solely in McGowan's hands for the next couple of years.

22. Tire Trouble (director): Jan. 13, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-22 - Our Gang series; Filmed Aug. 14 to Sep. 4, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923.
23. Big Business (director): Feb. 10, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-23 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 11 to 21, 1923. ©Jan. 26, 1924.
24. The Buccaneers (co-director): Mar. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-24 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 28 to Oct. 24, and Oct. 28, 1923. ©Feb. 20, 1924. The daily datebooks indicate that McGowan didn't direct on any of the shooting dates, and he's not credited in the opening titles, but he still shares credit with Mark Goldaine in Maltin & Bann's book.
25. Seein' Things (director): Apr. 6, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-25 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 25 to Nov. 7, and Dec. 19, 1923, and Jan. 7, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
26. Commencement Day (co-director): May 4, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-26 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 9 to Dec. 6, 1923, Jan. 7 to 11, and Jan. 26, 1924. ©May 12, 1924. It appears that McGowan didn't direct on any of the shooting dates, but still shared the credit with Mark Goldaine.
28. Cradle Robbers (director): June 1, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-28 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
29. Jubilo, Jr. (director): June 29, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-29 - Our Gang series; Also listed for July 29, 1924. Filmed Feb. 25 to Mar. 8, 1924. ©June 5, 1924.
27. It's A Bear (co-director): July 27, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-27 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 10 to 26, 1923, Jan. 2 to 7, Jan. 12, and Mar. 7 to 12, 1924. ©June 30, 1924. McGowan directed only on Jan. 7th, but received sole credit.
30. High Society (director): Aug. 24, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-30 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 24 to Apr. 5, 1924. ©May 29, 1924.
31. The Sun Down Limited (director): Sep. 21, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-31 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 21 to May 1, 1924. ©Aug. 2, 1924.
The Diamond Bandit (supporting role: Lorenzo's lieutenant): Oct. 15, 1924 - Wilson/Arrow - 5 reels; ©Oct. 9, 1924.
32. Every Man For Himself (director): Oct. 19, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-32 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 2 to 12, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
16. Fast Company (co-director): Nov. 16, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-16 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 5 to 15, 1923, with retakes June 13 to 21, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924. McGowan directed the retakes and received sole credit.
33. The Mysterious Mystery! (director): Dec. 14, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-33 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 30 to July 19, 1924, with retakes Sep. 9 and 12, 1924, and added scenes Sep. 13 and 15, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.

1925

34. The Big Town (director): Jan. 11, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-34 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 22 to Oct. 2, 1924. ©Dec. 9, 1924.
35. Circus Fever (director): Feb. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-35 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 20 to 25, and Nov. 1 to 4, 1924. ©Jan. 19, 1925.
The Rip Snorter (supporting role: 'Cole Slaw' Randall): Feb. 14, 1925 - Wilson/Arrow - 5 reels; ©Feb. 18, 1925.
36. Dog Days (director): Mar. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-36 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 5, and Nov. 17 to 24, 1924. ©Mar. 5, 1925.
37. The Love Bug (director): Apr. 5, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-37 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 15 to 31, 1924, and perhaps Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
39. Shootin' Injuns (director): May 3, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-39 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 19 to Feb. 5, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
38. Ask Grandma (director): May 31, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-38 - Our Gang series; Probably filmed in early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
40. Official Officers (director): June 28, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-40 - Our Gang series; Premiered June 10, 1925. Filmed Feb. 16 to 27, 1925. ©May 18, 1925.
42. Boys Will Be Joys (director): July 26, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-42 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 13 to 24, 1925. ©July 6, 1925.
41. Mary, Queen of Tots (director): Aug. 23, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-41 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 16 to Apr. 1, 1925. ©June 11, 1925.
44. Your Own Back Yard (co-director): Sep. 27, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-2 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 30 to July 16, and July 20 to 29, 1925. ©Aug. 28, 1925. McGowan directed on every shooting date, but collaborated with Len Powers from July 10th to 13th. McGowan received sole credit.
unknown title (presumed director/small role: himself): Roach - Our Gang; Filmed in 1925. A portion of this mysterious film was released as a short home movie alternately called "More Mischief" and "Our Gang At Home."
43. Better Movies (director): Nov. 1, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-1 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 27 to June 16, 1925. Originally production A-43. ©Aug. 20, 1925.
45. One Wild Ride (director): Dec. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 30 to Aug. 4, 1925. ©Nov. 6, 1925.

1926

In August, McGowan began to share his directorial duties with his same-named nephew, Robert A. McGowan, who would soon acquire the pseudonym Anthony Mack. The elder McGowan brought his nephew into the fold partly out of loyalty to his older brother, who had virtually raised him. Eventually, another nephew, Don Sandstrom, would join the Roach staff as well.

46. Good Cheer (director): Jan. 10, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-4 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 18, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
47. Buried Treasure (director): Feb. 14, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 1 to 19, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
48. Monkey Business (director): Mar. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-6 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 18, 1925. ©Feb. 6, 1926.
49. Baby Clothes (director): Apr. 25, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-7 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 7 to 20, 1925, with retakes Jan. 11, 1926. ©Mar. 15, 1926.
50. Uncle Tom's Uncle (director): May 30, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-8 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 3, 1926. ©Apr. 28, 1926.
51. Thundering Fleas (director): July 4, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-9 - Our Gang series; Also listed for July 28, 1926. Filmed Mar. 8 to 25, 1926. ©May 26, 1926.
52. Shivering Spooks (director): Aug. 8, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-10 - Our Gang series; Premiered July 4, 1926. Filmed Apr. 7 to 28, 1926. ©July 26, 1926.
53. The Fourth Alarm! (director/co-writer): Sep. 12, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-11 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 24 to June 14, 1926. ©Sep. 17, 1926.
54. War Feathers (co-director): Nov. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-12 - Our Gang series; Filmed Aug. 5 to Sep. 4, 1926. ©Dec. 13, 1926. McGowan directed only the added scenes, but received sole credit.
56. Telling Whoppers (co-director): Dec. 19, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-14 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Dec. 29, 1926. Filmed Sep. 10 to 18, 1926. ©Nov. 11, 1926. McGowan apparently directed on every shooting date, but shared the credit with Robert A. McGowan -as Anthony Mack).

1927

McGowan went on vacation in January, and was absent during the filming of several Our Gang films. He returned on April 10th. Presumably, McGowan had some degree of input on these films, which include "Tired Business Men," "Baby Brother," and "Chicken Feed," as well as the later "Playin' Hookey."

57. Bring Home The Turkey (co-director): Jan. 26, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-15 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 29 to Oct. 15, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927. McGowan apparently directed on every shooting date, but shared the credit with Robert A. McGowan -as Anthony Mack).
55. Seeing The World (director): Feb. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-13 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 15, 1926. European footage shot July and Aug. 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
58. Ten Years Old (co-director): Mar. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-16 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 24 to Dec. 14, 1926. ©Feb. 14, 1927. McGowan directed on all the shooting dates except Dec. 2nd through 4th, but didn't receive credit.
59. Love My Dog (director): Apr. 10, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-17 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Apr. 17, 1927. Filmed Dec. 21, 1926, to Jan. 4, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
60. Tired Business Men (uncredited co-director): May 22, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-18 - Our Gang series; Also listed for May 15, 1927, and May 21, 1927. Filmed Jan. 18 to Feb. 3, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927. McGowan directed on Jan. 19th, but not on the remaining shooting dates.
64. The Glorious Fourth (co-director): July 31, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-22 - Our Gang series; Also listed for June 26, 1927, and July 30, 1927. Filmed May 10 to 21, 1927. ©July 22, 1927. McGowan directed only on the 10th, but received sole credit.
63. Olympic Games (supervisor/co-director): Sep. 11, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-21 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Sep. 10, 1927. Filmed Apr. 22 to May 6, 1927. ©July 8, 1927. McGowan is listed in the daily ledgers as the director, but the film credits Anthony Mack, with McGowan credited as supervisor.
67. Yale Vs. Harvard (director): Sep. 24, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-1 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 13 to 24, 1927. ©Aug. 17, 1927.
68. The Old Wallop (producer/director/writer): Oct. 22, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-2 - Our Gang series; Filmed Aug. 8 to 20, 1927. ©Oct. 22, 1927.
69. Heebee Jeebees (producer/writer): Nov. 19, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-3 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Nov. 29, 1927. Filmed Aug. 29 to Sep. 13, and Sep. 30, 1927. ©Nov. 1, 1927.
70. Dog Heaven (producer/supervisor/co-director-story): Dec. 17, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-4 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 15 to Oct. 13, 1927, with retakes Nov. 1, 1927. ©Nov. 26, 1929. McGowan directed the retakes, but didn't receive directorial credit.

1928

71. Spook-Spoofing (producer/director/story): Jan. 14, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 3 reels - prod. G-5 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 11 to 27, 1927. ©Jan. 14, 1928.
72. Rainy Days (producer/supervisor/co-director/story): Feb. 11, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-6 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 4 to Dec. 28, 1927. ©Feb. 11, 1928, and Sep. 4, 1929. McGowan directed through Dec. 22nd, but didn't receive credit.
66. The Smile Wins (director/co-writer): Feb. 26, 1928 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-23 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 24 to June 7, 1927. ©Sep. 2, 1927.
73. Edison, Marconi & Co. (producer/supervisor/co-director/writer): Mar. 10, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-7 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Mar. 9, 1928. Filmed Dec. 16 to 22, and Dec. 28, 1927. ©Mar. 10, 1928. McGowan directed through Dec. 22nd, but didn't receive credit.
74. Barnum & Ringling, Inc. (producer/director): Apr. 7, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-8 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 21, 1927, to Jan. 9, 1928. ©Apr. 7, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
75. Fair And Muddy (producer/supervisor/writer): May 5, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-9 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, 1928. ©May 5, 1928.
76. Crazy House (producer/director): June 2, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-10 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 10 to 24, 1928. ©May 16, 1928.
77. Growing Pains (producer/supervisor/story): Sep. 22, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-11 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 27 to Mar. 15, 1928. ©Sep. 22, 1928.
78. The Ol' Gray Hoss (producer/supervisor-co-director/story): Oct. 20, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-12 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 7 to 26, 1928, with retakes Aug. 16, 1928. ©Oct. 20, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. The studio datebooks credit McGowan as the director, but the film credits Anthony Mack.
79. School Begins (producer/supervisor/co-director-story): Nov. 17, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series; Premiered Sep. 16, 1928. Filmed June 7 to 28, 1928. ©Nov. 17, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. McGowan directed on about half of the shooting dates, but didn't receive directorial credit.
80. The Spanking Age (producer/director/writer): Dec. 15, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-14 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 2 to 14, 1928. ©Dec. 15, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.

1929

81. Election Day (supervisor/co-director/story): Jan. 12, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-15 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 19 to Aug. 4, 1928, with retakes Aug. 22 to 24, 1928. ©Dec. 10, 1928. McGowan directed through the 22nd, but didn't receive directorial credit. The story credit appears in the copyright deposit.
82. Noisy Noises (producer/director/story): Feb. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-16 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 10, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
83. The Holy Terror (producer/supervisor/co-director/story): Mar. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-17 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 19 to 28, 1928. ©July 11, 1929. McGowan directed on all of the shooting dates except the last, but he didn't receive directorial credit.
84. Wiggle Your Ears (producer/director/story): Apr. 6, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-18 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 4 to 12, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
85. Fast Freight (producer/supervisor/story): May 4, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-19 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 10 to 27, and Dec. 29, 1928. ©Apr. 1, 1929.
89. Small Talk (producer/director/story): May 18, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 3 reels - prod. G-23 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Apr. 18, 1929. Filmed Mar. 25 to Apr. 6, 1929. ©July 30, 1929. The press release for this film gives McGowan co-credit for the dialogue and refers to him as a director-general.
Thundering Toupees (co-director): May 25, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. S-20 - All Star series; Filmed Dec. 20 to 27, 1928. ©June 27, 1929. Featuring Jean Harlow and Edgar Kennedy. McGowan received sole credit, but the studio datebooks credit Hal Roach as the director.
86. Little Mother (producer/director/story): June 1, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-20 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 4 to 13, 1929. ©June 3, 1929.
90. Railroadin' (producer/director/story/bit role: train passenger): June 15, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-24 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 17 to 25, 1929. ©Dec. 9, 1929. The press release for this film gives McGowan credit for writing the dialogue.
92. Lazy Days (producer/director/story): Aug. 24, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-26 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Aug. 15, 1929, and Oct. 24, 1929. Filmed June 10 to 20, 1929. ©Aug. 26, 1929.
91. Boxing Gloves (producer/supervisor/co-writer): Sep. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-25 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 13 to 25, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929. The press release for this film gives McGowan credit for writing the story and dialogue.
87. Cat, Dog & Co. (producer/supervisor/co-director/story): Sep. 14, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-21 - Our Gang series; Filmed Feb. 20 to Mar. 2, 1929. ©Sep. 3, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack. McGowan directed a second unit from Feb. 22nd through 26th, but didn't receive directorial credit.
93. Bouncing Babies (producer/director/story): Oct. 12, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-27 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 5 to 15, 1929. ©Sep. 23, 1929.
88. Saturday's Lesson (producer/director/story): Nov. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-22 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 5 to 11, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
94. Moan & Groan, Inc. (producer/director/story): Dec. 7, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-28 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 14, 1929. ©Dec. 2, 1929.

1930

95. Shivering Shakespeare (producer/supervisor/story): Jan. 25, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-29 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 30 to Oct. 12, 1929. ©Dec. 17, 1929.
96. The First Seven Years (producer/director/story): Mar. 1, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-30 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 28 to Nov. 16, 1929. ©Jan. 20, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Los pequenos papas.
97. When The Wind Blows (producer/story): Apr. 5, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-31 - Our Gang series; Filmed Nov. 29 to Dec. 10, 1929. ©Feb. 10, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Las fantasmas.
98. Bear Shooters (producer/director): May 17, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-32 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 19, 1929, to Jan. 4, 1930, and Jan. 21, 1930. Also filmed in Spanish as Los cazadores de osos.
Fifty Million Husbands (story): May 24, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. C-30 - Charley Chase series; Filmed Feb. 17 to 28, 1930. ©Nov. 30, 1930. Anthony & Edmonds speculate that the French version, known as No 'ume de Pipe!:, was probably the U.S. version with dubbing.
99. A Tough Winter (producer/director/story): June 21, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-33 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 27 to Feb. 15, 1930. ©Apr. 14, 1930. Also filmed in German as Winter Wetter and in French as Semps d'hiver.
100. Pups Is Pups (producer/director/story): Aug. 30, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-34 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 21 to May 9, 1930. ©July 2, 1930. Added to the National Film Registry on Dec. 28, 2004.
101. Teacher's Pet (director/story): Oct. 11, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-35 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 21 to 29, 1930. ©Nov. 24, 1930. Also made as Spanish version entitled Comenzo la escuela, which used the English original with full-frame cut-in titles, but wasn't accepted by MGM for release in this format.
102. School's Out (director): Nov. 22, 1930 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-36 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 17 to 25, 1930.

1931

103. Helping Grandma (producer/director): Jan. 3, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-37 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 28 to Aug. 6, 1930. ©Oct. 1, 1930.
104. Love Business (producer/director): Feb. 14, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-38 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 15, 1930, with retakes Sep. 20, 1930. ©Oct. 26, 1930.
105. Little Daddy (producer/director): Mar. 28, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-39 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 13, 1930. ©Feb. 6, 1931.
Love Fever (director): Apr. 11, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-36 - All Star series with The Boy Friends; Filmed Oct. 6 to 14, 1930, with retakes Oct. 30, 1930. ©Jan. 7, 1931.
106. Bargain Day (producer/director): May 2, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-40 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 14 to 23, 1930, with retakes Jan. 26 to Feb. 2, 1931. ©Mar. 23, 1931.
107. Fly My Kite (producer/director): May 30, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-41 - Our Gang series; Filmed Mar. 2 to 14, 1931. ©May 7, 1931.
108. Big Ears (producer/director/writer): Aug. 29, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-1 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 25 to June 5, 1931. ©Aug. 17, 1931. The writing credit derives from the press release for this film. Also released with Spanish subtitles as Orejas de burro.
109. Shiver My Timbers (producer/director): Oct. 10, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-2 - Our Gang series; Filmed June 29 to July 9, 1931. ©Oct. 1, 1931. Also released with Spanish subtitles as Piratas infantiles.
110. Dogs Is Dogs (producer/director): Nov. 21, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-3 - Our Gang series; Filmed Aug. 12 to 28, 1931. ©Oct. 27, 1931.

1932

McGowan resigned as Our Gang director after "The Pooch," but Roach talked him into staying with the series.

111. Readin' And Writin' (producer/director): Jan. 2, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-4 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Feb. 2, 1932. Filmed Sep. 30 to Oct. 10, 1931. ©Dec. 17, 1931.
112. Free Eats (producer): Feb. 13, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-5 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Feb. 18, 1932. Filmed Nov. 6 to 19, 1931. ©Feb. 11, 1932.
113. Spanky (producer/co-director): Mar. 26, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-6 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 14 to 22, 1931. ©Mar. 29, 1932. McGowan directed all of the shooting except the parts derived from Spanky's screen test, and received sole credit.
114. Choo-Choo! (producer/director): May 7, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-7 - Our Gang series; Filmed Jan. 25 to Feb. 4, 1932. ©May 2, 1932.
115. The Pooch (producer/director): June 11, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-8 - Our Gang series; Also listed for June 4, 1932. Filmed Mar. 9 to 17, 1932. ©June 13, 1932.
116. Hook And Ladder (producer/director/co-writer): Aug. 27, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-9 - Our Gang series; Filmed May 18 to 28, 1932. ©Sep. 14, 1932.
117. Free Wheeling (producer/director): ©Nov. 7, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-10 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 19 to 27, 1932, with retakes Sep. 3, 1932.
118. Birthday Blues (producer/director): Nov. 12, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-11 - Our Gang series; Filmed July 30 to Aug. 4, 1932. ©Oct. 24, 1932.
119. A Lad An' A Lamp (producer/director): Dec. 17, 1932 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-12 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 10, 1932. ©Dec. 12, 1932.

1933

In mid-April, McGowan took a trip to Europe with Roach, where he did a rare interview. He was supposed to finally resign from the Our Gang series after "Mush And Milk" (as per a verbal agreement with Roach one year earlier), but remained for two more films before finally calling it quits. However, he did occasionally return to the studio for non-Our Gang activities.

120. Fish Hooky (producer/director): Jan. 28, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series; Filmed Oct. 17 to 22, 1932. ©Jan. 16, 1933.
121. Forgotten Babies (producer/director): Mar. 11, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-14 - Our Gang series; Filmed Dec. 3 to 10, 1932. ©Mar. 13, 1933.
122. The Kid From Borneo (producer/director): Apr. 15, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-15 - Our Gang series; ©Mar. 13, 1933.
123. Mush and Milk (producer/director): May 27, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-16 - Our Gang series; ©Apr. 17, 1933.
Crook's Tour (director): Sep. 23, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. B-2 - All Star series; ©Nov. 7, 1933.
124. Bedtime Worries (producer/director): ©Sep. 26, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-17 - Our Gang series; Also listed for Sep. 9, 1933.
125. Wild Poses (producer/director): Oct. 28, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-18 - Our Gang series; Filmed in Aug. 1933. ©Oct. 20, 1933.

1934

Babes In Toyland (uncredited gag writer): Nov. 30, 1934 - Roach/MGM - 9 reels - prod. F-5 - Laurel & Hardy feature; Filmed Aug. 6 to 16, and Sep. 24 to Oct. 17, 1934. ©Nov. 28, 1934. US reissue title: March Of The Wooden Soldiers.

1935

Around this time, McGowan moved to Paramount, where he wrote, directed and produced various features and shorts, including a series of Baby Leroy one-reelers. Towards the end of the year, he returned to the Roach studio to direct the Our Gang series again, but left again after only one film.

Frontier Justice (director): Dec. 1, 1935 - Diversion - 53 min. - Hoot Gibson feature; Also listed as Oct. 1, 1936, with a premiere date of Jan. 3, 1936.

1936

Serves You Right (co-story): June 15, 1935 - Vitaphone/Warner Bros. - 2 reels; ©Jan. 6, 1936. Credited as Bob McGowan. IMDb credits Robert A. McGowan.
Too Many Parents (director): Mar. 20, 1936 - Paramount - 8 reels; Filmed Jan. to Feb. 1936. ©Mar. 20, 1936. Credited as Robert F. McGowan.

1938

1940

During this year, McGowan regularly directed a series of features for Monogram starring Jackie Moran and Marcia Mae Jones.

Tomboy (director): Apr. 20, 1940 - Monogram - 70 min. - Jackie Moran and Marcia Mae Jones feature
Haunted House (director): July 22, 1940 - Monogram - 70 min. - Jackie Moran and Marcia Mae Jones feature; UK title: The Blake Murder Mystery.
The Old Swimmin' Hole (director): Oct. 21, 1940 - Monogram - 78 min. - Jackie Moran and Marcia Mae Jones feature; Also known as When Youth Conspires.

1946

Early in the year, McGowan returned to the Roach studio to help cast the Curley series, and ended up getting a production credit on both of the two episodes ultimately made.

1947

Hal Roach Comedy Carnival: part 1: Curley (producer/original story); part 2: The Fabulous Joe; Aug. 23, 1947 - Roach/UA - Cinecolor - prod. F-54/56 - streamliner package; ©Aug. 29, 1947. Starring Frances Rafferty, Larry Olsen, Walter Abel, Margot Grahame. Part 1 went into production on Apr. 11, 1946. The two halves were subsequently released separately. "Curly" was combined with "Who Killed Doc Robbin" in the '80s to create two new films: The Adventures Of Curly And His Gang and Curley And His Gang In The Haunted Mansion. Credited as Robert F. McGowan.

1948

Lafftime: part 1: Here Comes Trouble; part 2: Who Killed Doc Robbin? (producer/original story); Mar. 15, 1948 - Roach/UA - Cinecolor - prod. F-55/57 - streamliner package; ©Apr. 9, 1948. Starring William Tracy, Joe Sawyer. The two halves were subsequently released separately. "Who Killed Doc Robbin" was combined with "Curly" in the '80s to create two new films: The Adventures Of Curly And His Gang and Curley And His Gang In The Haunted Mansion. Credited as Robert F. McGowan.

1952

You Asked For It episode (appearance): 1952 - ABC - TV episode

1986

Classic Comedy Teams (archival): 1986 - Bergamn-Harris/Movietime/GoodTimes - video documentary; Includes footage from "School's Out."

2000

Bamboozled (archival): Oct. 20, 2000 - 40 Acres/New Line - 135 min. - color - Dolby; Includes footage from "School's Out."

©Aug. 29, 2006, by Robert Demoss.
2007 updates: 2/27, 4/1, 10/17, 11/4, 11/16.
2008 updates: 1/19, 5/26, 7/6, 7/12, 8/19, 11/9.