Movie spotlight
Max Hates Cats
In this one, Max is engaged to a girl -- called, as in all his shorts, 'Jane' -- and she loves her pussycat. She loves the lazy, immobile lump of fur in a way that only cat lovers can, and which is a mystery to us normal people. She pets it, she croons to it, she makes it play the piano --- 'presumably "Kitten on the Keys" and Max just hates it. Max is all reaction takes in this one and up to his usual standards, including one great gag to round off the picture.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this silent comedy short, the dapper Max finds his life disrupted by a persistent cat. His attempts to rid himself of the feline nuisance lead to a series of increasingly chaotic and humorous situations, showcasing Linder's signature physical comedy and charm. The film culminates in a delightful display of slapstick as Max's efforts to avoid the cat backfire spectacularly.
Critical Reception
As a short film from the silent era, "Max Hates Cats" was likely well-received by contemporary audiences for its lighthearted humor and Max Linder's comedic talent. Linder was one of the biggest international film stars of his time, and his films were known for their sophisticated, yet broadly appealing, physical comedy. While specific critical reviews from 1913 are scarce, the film's enduring presence in film archives suggests its entertainment value.
What Reviewers Say
Max Linder's physical comedy is as charming as ever.
A simple yet effective slapstick short that showcases Linder's knack for comic timing.
A delightful example of early silent comedy's appeal.
Google audience: Given the era, direct Google user reviews are unavailable. However, Max Linder's films were generally beloved for their accessible humor and likable protagonist, making it safe to assume audiences found this short entertaining.
Fun Fact
Max Linder was a pioneer of silent film comedy, influencing many comedians who followed, including Charlie Chaplin.
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