Film & Shorts Discussions > Random Comedy Reviews

The Adventurer (1917) - Charlie Chaplin

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Umbrella Sam:
Well, chases are always great ways to end comedies, so it seems fitting that Chaplin’s final Mutual film is bookended by two great chase sequences. The speed of the chases is fantastic; I love how Chaplin is constantly back and forth between the two floors in the ending chase, constantly jumping off the ledge. I also really like in the first one how he keeps trying to go down this slope and every time, he runs into a police officer who just happens to be going in that direction.

As far as drama, obviously the part in the water is some fairly heavier stuff. What’s probably most surprising is the part where Chaplin passes out after rescuing Eric Campbell the second time. I don’t know, it kind of felt a bit out of place given how the rest of the short is pretty much lighthearted throughout, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad. You still get some comedy in having him try to help the cowardly Campbell. And, yes, having him shove the mother to the side is also hysterical.

The party stuff works for the most part. Highlights for me include Chaplin diverting Edna’s attention way every time he kicks Eric Campbell and his drawing over the newspaper. Good stuff, but the big drawing attractions here are the chases and, again, they’re done very well. Another fun short and a good way to end the Mutual discussions.

HomokHarcos:
The chase scenes were a lot of fun, my favorite part of the short. Being a convict and in those prison clothes and trying to get away is quite dangerous, but comedic also. I also like the filming site, it looks like a place you'd expect a prison to be near.

I really like the newspaper gag in the other section. It's funny how the people at the party can get fooled by that, it's so cartoony and brilliant. Escaping prison and living a rich lifestyle is one great turnaround, but it doesn't end too well for him as the chase continues.

That puts an end to a very strong period of Chaplin's run with Mutual.

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