Mack Sennett (1880–1960)

A recollection of film history by one of the pioneers of early motion picture comedy. Mr. Sennett was such a great influence on film comedy, it's important that his original work is kept alive, and what better way than reading his own words in this wonderful book! He had an amazing knack of picking out talent and or associating himself with them. You'll find most of them in this book. He was also a guest on Lawrence Welk's radio program! And although most people connect him to just comedy, show more he was smart enough to branch out in another area, and that's documentaries. As he stated himself, rather than think up an original idea, sometimes it was easier to just go out and film current events! The only problem, although some may think it a benefit, is that he spends a little too much time on Mabel Normand. It would have been better if he had written another book just on her! After reading this book see the silent feature, Mickey(1918), the short sound film, The Fatal Glass of Beer(1933), and the semi autobiographical film, Hollywood Cavalcade(1939). show less

A girl escapes an arranged marriage by going to Hollywood.

It's more of a melodrama than a comedy, but it's not bad. There's a lot of action, and the handful of comedic bits are amusing.

Concept: C
Story: D
Characters: D
Dialog: C
Pacing: D
Cinematography: C
Special effects/design: C
Acting: B
Music: D

Enjoyment: C plus

GPA: 1.7/4

(Jul. 2015)

A sleazy guy takes advantage of a bumpkin.

All the bits are good - often very funny - but it goes on for way too long.

Concept: C
Story: D
Characters: B
Dialog: B
Pacing: D
Cinematography: C
Special effects/design: B
Acting: B
Music: C

Enjoyment: C plus

GPA: 2.2/4

Cohen is a sergeant in the Union Army and the bitter rival of another officer for the attentions of Rebecca. Like most burlesque Jewish characters of this period, this caricature borders on anti-semitism. Yet Cohen is also the hero of the film. (fonte: NCJF)