The Three Stooges remains a pop culture phenomenon after 100 years. While that staying power in the zeitgeist alone may tell the story of a grand career and much success, that isn’t exactly the case.

The Holy Trinity of knockabout numbskull comedy—fritz-haloed Larry, yipping lummox Curly, and bowl-cut fascist Moe—are introduced as they’re ditched on the steps of an orphanage. Twenty-five years ...