Movie spotlight
All on Account of Checkers
Smith & Smith, publishers, in a letter, notify Professor Bernard that they will accept his latest story if he will alter the enclosed paragraph: "Marry me and I will do away with my wife as I did her father." The absent-minded professor leaves this paragraph on his study table while he goes to the store to secure some cloth for his wife. The Professor, however, is very absent-minded, and forgets his mission when he meets a group of firemen who induce him to play a game of checkers. In the meantime, Ellen, the cook, is having her troubles with the butcher boy, who brings liver instead of chops, as ordered.
Insights
Plot Summary
This silent short film follows a man who is deeply engrossed in a game of checkers, to the detriment of his other responsibilities. His obsession leads to comical mishaps and escalating chaos as he prioritizes the game over everything else. The narrative humorously explores the consequences of single-minded focus.
Critical Reception
As a short silent comedy from 1912, 'All on Account of Checkers' was likely received as a brief piece of entertainment for its time. Contemporary reviews, if they exist, would focus on its comedic timing and its ability to elicit laughter from audiences. Modern historical assessments recognize its place as an early example of American silent film comedy.
What Reviewers Say
A lighthearted and amusing silent comedy short.
Effectively uses visual gags to portray a man's obsession.
A charming example of early 20th-century film humor.
Google audience: Information not available for this early silent film.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for being one of the earliest known surviving films featuring the then-popular vaudeville comedian Harry A. Pollard in a leading role, predating many other figures who would become major stars in the silent era.
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