Movie spotlight
Efficiency Edgar's Courtship
Efficiency wins success in business; why not in love? Edgar Bumpus, a rising young man, applies this reasoning to his courtship of Mary Pierce. He first eliminates Wimple, his closest competitor, who plays a guitar, by learning to play a saxophone, which makes louder noise, and by sending Mary flowers and candy each time Wimple calls on her. The plan works O.K., until the saxophone disturbs Mr. Pierce's slumbers. He and Edgar clash and the latter is forbidden to visit Mary any more. Edgar employs a clipping bureau to send news items to Mr. Pierce which tells of the troubles young girls get into when their fathers refuse to let them have beaux. One eloped with a milkman; another disappeared. This has no effect upon Mr. Pierce, however, except to make him hate Edgar more. However, the youth's persistence finally wins Mary's love. Then Edgar plays his trump card. He gets Mary to sign a legal agreement to forfeit $10,000 to him, unless she marries him.
Insights
Plot Summary
This short silent comedy follows Edgar, a man who believes in extreme efficiency in all aspects of his life, including romance. His attempts to court a young woman using a highly structured and calculated approach lead to humorous misunderstandings and chaotic situations. Edgar's rigid methodology clashes hilariously with the unpredictable nature of love and courtship.
Critical Reception
As a short silent comedy from the early 20th century, "Efficiency Edgar's Courtship" was likely received as a lighthearted piece of entertainment. Contemporary reviews, if available, would have focused on its comedic timing and the performances of its popular stars. Modern reception is limited due to its age and the scarcity of detailed critical archives from that era.
What Reviewers Say
The film provides a humorous look at applying rigid logic to personal relationships.
Lillian Gish and Harold Lockwood deliver charming performances that anchor the comedy.
A charming, albeit brief, snapshot of early American comedic filmmaking.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this 1917 short film is not publicly available or archived.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for featuring Lillian Gish, who would go on to become one of the most important actresses of the silent film era, in an early role.
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