Being Respectable
Wealthy young Charles Carpenter is pressured by his family to marry Suzanne, even though he is really in love with young "flapper" Valerie. He gives in to his family's pressure, however, and marries Suzanne, after which Valerie leaves town. Years later, after Charles and Suzanne have had a child, Valerie comes back to town and Charles realizes he is still in love with her, and she with him. Complications ensue.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this early Hal Roach comedy short, Charley Chase plays a young man struggling to propose to his sweetheart. He faces numerous comedic obstacles and misunderstandings, largely due to his own nervousness and the interference of others. The film culminates in a series of escalating comedic situations as he attempts to overcome his shyness and societal expectations to declare his love.
Critical Reception
As a short from the silent era, 'Being Respectable' is primarily of interest to film historians and fans of early comedy. Contemporary reviews are scarce, but its place within Charley Chase's early work suggests it was likely received as a standard, competently made short comedy of its time, characteristic of the era's popular slapstick and romantic escapades.
What Reviewers Say
- A charming example of early silent comedy.
- Showcases Charley Chase's developing comedic timing.
- A lighthearted, though perhaps formulaic, romantic short.
Google audience: Audience reception data for this specific 1924 short film is not readily available through general Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
This short film is significant for featuring the directorial debut of Leo McCarey, who would go on to win three Academy Awards for his later works, including 'The Awful Truth' and 'Going My Way'.
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