Movie spotlight
Excuse My Dust
A top race-car driver leaves the sport to get married and settle down, because his new wife doesn't want him to race anymore. However, not long afterwards his wife takes their infant son and leaves him to go to San Francisco. The husband gets word that his son is seriously ill in San Francisco, but he has no way to get there. Just in the nick of time, however, the racer's father-in-law just happens to have developed a new car for a cross-country race--to San Francisco!
Insights
Plot Summary
In a small, conservative town, a young inventor named Billie Thorne struggles to gain acceptance for his newfangled automobile. His relentless tinkering and unconventional ideas clash with the town's established norms and the skepticism of its residents. As he faces ridicule and opposition, Billie must prove the value of his creation and win over the hearts and minds of his community, all while navigating the complexities of budding romance.
Critical Reception
As an early silent comedy, 'Excuse My Dust' was generally well-received for its humor and Will Rogers's charming performance. It capitalized on the novelty of automobiles and the comedic potential of everyday life clashing with new technology. While specific critical reviews from 1920 are scarce, the film is remembered as a lighthearted and entertaining piece of its era.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its gentle humor and Will Rogers's relatable character.
Appreciated for its simple yet effective depiction of small-town life and technological change.
Seen as a charming and lighthearted early silent film.
Google audience: Audience reception from the time is largely undocumented, but Will Rogers's films were typically popular and family-friendly, suggesting a positive general sentiment among his fans.
Fun Fact
This film was one of Will Rogers's earliest starring roles, showcasing his transition from vaudeville and Ziegfeld Follies to a successful film career.
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