Movie spotlight
The Money Maniac
En route to the U.S., Joe Hoggart persuades several other immigrants to pool their money and purchase a tract of land, which proves to be rich in oil years later. With the assistance of his associate, Bill Shopps, Joe seeks to control the other investors' certificates. He travels to Spain, where he discovers that a partner named Garros has died. Joe kidnaps Garros' daughter, Rolande, and claims that she has also died. After Didier Bouchard, another member of the group, gathers the partners and their heirs together, Joe lures them into a building where, ostensibly, a sale of the land is to take place. Joe imprisons them, but they escape in time to attend the sale. An investor named Milo d'Espail learns that Rolande is still alive and rescues her from Joe. Bouchard marries Thérèse, another of Garros's daughters.
Insights
Plot Summary
A short silent comedy where a man becomes obsessed with money and its pursuit. The film humorously explores the character's increasing greed and the comical situations that arise from his singular focus on wealth. It follows his exaggerated attempts to acquire riches, leading to a series of slapstick encounters.
Critical Reception
As a short silent comedy from 1921, 'The Money Maniac' received contemporary reviews that were generally positive for its comedic elements and lighthearted entertainment. Its brevity allowed for quick amusement without demanding deep thematic engagement. Audience reception was typical for the era's popular short films, providing escapism and laughter.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its slapstick humor and fast-paced comedic gags.
Appreciated as a light and amusing diversion typical of early 20th-century short films.
Noted for the energetic performance of its lead actor, Willard Louis.
Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews for this silent short film from 1921 is not available.
Fun Fact
The film was part of a series of shorts produced by Fox Film Corporation, often featuring vaudeville performers like Willard Louis in comedic roles.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources