A Close Shave
A Close Shave

Movie spotlight

A Close Shave

1910
Movie
8 min
English

Mr. Marc and his wife are at breakfast when the butler announces an early caller and tenders his master a card bearing the name of Mr. Bunco. When Marc hurries into the reception room he is greeted by a gentleman of prepossessing appearance, who, after a warm handshake, introduces himself as the agent of the Silver Sucker mine. He has heard that Mr. Marc is seeking a profitable investment and was advised by a friend of Mr. Marc's to see this latter. The gentleman offers other credentials, but the mention of the friend's name is enough for the unwary Marc, and he refuses to put the gentleman to such an inconvenience. At length it is arranged, and Marc informs the gentleman that if he will call at his office at 2 o'clock they will close the deal. Mr. Marc wears a beard, and on his way downtown he suddenly resolves to shave.

Insights

Director: UnknownGenres: Short, Comedy

Plot Summary

A young man attempts to shave himself but encounters a series of comical mishaps. His efforts are further complicated by a persistent fly and a general lack of coordination, leading to a chaotic and messy shaving experience.

Critical Reception

As a very early silent short, specific critical reception data from 1910 is scarce. However, the film is representative of the slapstick comedy style that was popular in the nascent film industry, aiming for simple, physical humor.

What Reviewers Say

  • Early example of physical comedy in cinema.

  • Represents the simple humor of the silent film era.

  • A short, lighthearted comedic vignette.

Google audience: Data not available for this early silent film.

Fun Fact

This film is an example of the very early one-reel comedies that were a staple of early cinema, often featuring simple gags and minimal plot.

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