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Movie spotlight

The Clean-Up

1915
Movie
22 min
English

Miriam, daughter of wealthy politician John Barker is engaged to reporter George Prescott. Prescott is assigned to expose gambling conditions and discovers Barker is a grafter. Miriam doesn’t believe Prescott and breaks the engagement only to fall victim to gambling fever. When she is arrested in a raid on a gaming house her father sees the error of his ways and becomes a reform candidate of the "Clean-up" party. He wins and George and Miriam reunite.

Insights

Director: Mack SennettGenres: Comedy, Short, Slapstick

Plot Summary

In this short silent comedy, a clumsy policeman attempts to manage a chaotic situation involving a runaway horse and a series of escalating mishaps. His earnest but misguided efforts only serve to worsen the pandemonium.

Critical Reception

As a silent short from the early days of cinema, 'The Clean-Up' is primarily appreciated for its historical significance in the development of slapstick comedy. Contemporary reviews would have focused on its comedic timing and the performers' physical prowess.

What Reviewers Say

  • Heralded as an early example of Mack Sennett's signature slapstick.

  • Features the comedic talents of then-popular stars like Fatty Arbuckle.

  • Represents a foundational piece of early cinematic comedy.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for a silent film from 1915 is not publicly available.

Fun Fact

Mack Sennett, known as the 'King of Comedy,' produced hundreds of short films during this era, with 'The Clean-Up' being one of many contributing to the Keystone Studios' legendary output.

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