Classic Harold Lloys silent film, 70 minutes long, and worth double the vast majority of films twice that length.
We genuinely gasped in worry, excitment and awe as Lloyd pulled off fabulous, dangerous stunts with beautifully acted, composed ablomb. This is what we call the stuntwork, the question always being; 'How did he do that'? As long as one is willing to get involved one will find oneself in a state of great excitment, tension, and release, the emotional impact undimmed by the years (1923).
The story as such is surprisingly biting, and really a critique of money-centric capitalism. Credit for putting a message and a thought behind what is essentially a roll of comedy/high-wire set pieces. The humour is good, and lasts, if not in belly laughs then in a constant state of 'humphs' and mild amusements that are emphasised by the absurd tensions.
This film also looks beautiful, from Lloyd's low key movements, to the expressive supporting cast in their clever costumes. Silent film is a more visual medium, and drinking in the scenes of the city and the grace of the people was a treat.
All round, a wonderful experience, a short piece of exhillaration and smart humour.
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