Movie spotlight
Run 'Em Ragged
Run ’Em Ragged, Snub Pollard’s 39th starring vehicle, uses familiar slapstick-- Over-the-top make-up, ethnic humor, and a chase across Los Angeles’s Echo Park-- But there is more here than knockabout; Sophisticated sight gags test the limits of the characters’ perception, making expert use of such props as a seemingly bottomless rowboat.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this silent short, a young man works in a tailor shop and gets into a series of comedic mishaps involving a wealthy patron's suit. He attempts to impress a girl while dealing with the consequences of his frantic efforts to fix his mistakes.
Critical Reception
As a short film from the silent era, 'Run 'Em Ragged' is typically viewed as a minor entry in Harold Lloyd's extensive filmography. While it showcases his developing physical comedy and signature character, critical analysis often focuses on its place within his broader work rather than as a standalone masterpiece. Audiences of the time likely enjoyed its lighthearted humor and fast-paced gags.
What Reviewers Say
A charming early example of Harold Lloyd's comedic talents.
Features the signature 'Glasses Character' in a series of slapstick situations.
A brief but entertaining showcase of silent film comedy.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this 1920 short film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This short film is notable for featuring Mildred Davis, who would become Harold Lloyd's wife and frequent on-screen co-star.
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