Movie spotlight
Early to Bed
Donald has to get up early, but everything seems to be working to keep him awake. His loudly ticking alarm clock resists several attempts to quiet it. Donald ultimately swallows it; the glow-in-the-dark dial can be seen through his feathers. Then his folding bed folds up on him. Springs start popping out of it; Donald builds an elaborate framework to hold it down. Finally, enough of the clock reassembles itself to sound the alarm and night is over.
Insights
Plot Summary
A millionaire inventor, struggling with insomnia, develops a revolutionary sleeping potion. However, a group of criminals learns of his invention and plots to steal it for their own nefarious purposes. He must find a way to outsmart them while also dealing with the complexities of his love life and his own sleep deprivation.
Critical Reception
Early to Bed received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. While some critics praised Harold Lloyd's signature comedic performance and the film's inventive premise, others found the plot to be somewhat convoluted and the pacing uneven. Audiences generally enjoyed the slapstick humor and the romantic elements typical of Lloyd's later work.
What Reviewers Say
Harold Lloyd's enduring comedic charm is on full display.
The inventive premise of a sleeping potion is engaging, though sometimes overshadowed by a busy plot.
A pleasant, lighthearted comedy that delivers laughs, if not consistent brilliance.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight Harold Lloyd's comedic timing and the film's whimsical plot as enjoyable aspects. Some viewers found the story a bit predictable, but generally appreciated it as a classic comedy from its era.
Fun Fact
This was one of Harold Lloyd's last feature films before he semi-retired from acting, focusing more on production.
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