A Burglar for One Night
A Burglar for One Night

Movie spotlight

A Burglar for One Night

1911
Movie
12 min
English

'An unemployed labourer is driven to burglary when he is unable to find work.' (British Film Institute)

Insights

Director: Alice Guy-BlachéGenres: Comedy, Short

Plot Summary

A wealthy man returns home unexpectedly to find a burglar attempting to rob him. Instead of calling the police, the homeowner decides to play a game of cat and mouse with the intruder, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and chases within the house. The story unfolds with slapstick humor as the man tries to outsmart the burglar, who is equally determined to complete his mission.

Critical Reception

As a silent short from 1911, 'A Burglar for One Night' was primarily a Vaudeville-era entertainment piece. Contemporary reviews focused on its comedic timing and visual gags, typical of the era's burgeoning film industry. While not a critical landmark, it contributed to the early development of cinematic comedy.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lighthearted slapstick and fast-paced chase sequences.

  • Appreciated for its simple, engaging comedic premise suitable for a broad audience.

  • Noted for its early example of domestic situational comedy in film.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1911 short film is not available.

Fun Fact

Alice Guy-Blaché, the director, was a pioneer in filmmaking and one of the first women to direct a narrative film. She established her own studio, Solax, in the United States in 1910.

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