The Merry Jail
The Merry Jail

Movie spotlight

The Merry Jail

1917
Movie
48 min
German

A neglected wife disguises herself in order to lure her wastrel husband into a compromising position.

Insights

Director: Edward F. ClineGenres: Comedy, Short

Plot Summary

In this silent comedy short, a group of prisoners orchestrates a humorous escape from jail. Their attempts to outsmart the guards lead to a series of comical misunderstandings and chaotic situations. The film follows their lighthearted efforts to regain freedom, highlighting the absurdity of their ploys.

Critical Reception

As a short comedy from 1917, detailed critical reception is scarce. However, films of this era featuring Sidney Drew were generally well-received for their lighthearted humor and family-friendly entertainment.

What Reviewers Say

  • Generally lighthearted and amusing for its time.

  • Showcased the popular comedic style of Sidney Drew.

  • A typical example of early silent film comedy shorts.

Google audience: Audience reception data for "The Merry Jail" is not available.

Fun Fact

This short film is notable for featuring a young Lillian Gish in one of her early, non-leading roles before she became a major star.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
germish

germish

The Merry Jail or Das fidele Gefängnis (1917) is one of the early films of Ernst Lubitsch. A light comedy, based on Strauss's operetta 'Die Fledermaus', about a rich couple and their maid in a gay Berlin of endless parties and ceremonies. I...

germish

germish

The Merry Jail or Das fidele Gefängnis (1917) is one of the early films of Ernst Lubitsch. A light comedy, based on Strauss's operetta 'Die Fledermaus', about a rich couple and their maid in a gay Berlin of endless parties and ceremonies. I...