A collection of 15 all-time great silent-era comedy shorts starring one of the silent era's top stars.

This comprehensive 3-DVD collection presents fifteen rare and historically significant silent comedy shorts from 1927, capturing Charley Chase at the height of his career as the top star of Hal Roach Studios’ legendary “Lot of Fun” era. Directed primarily by James Parrott and produced under the guidance of Leo McCarey, these films represent a peak moment in silent comedy—combining sharp situational humor, inventive visual gags, and Chase’s uniquely expressive performance style.

Many of the shorts included here have not been widely available since their original release, with several making their home video debut after being sourced from international archives and private collections. The collection features titles such as MANY SCRAPPY RETURNS, WHAT WOMEN DID FOR ME, ARE BRUNETTES SAFE, BIGGER AND BETTER BLONDES, THE LIGHTER THAT FAILED, ASSISTANT WIVES, US, THERE AIN’T NO SANTA CLAUS, and NOW I’LL TELL ONE—of which only the second reel survives, notable for featuring both Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. NEVER THE DAMES SHALL MEET is represented by a rare surviving three-minute fragment, while THE WAY OF ALL PANTS is presented complete for the first time after previously circulating only in incomplete form. Other highlights include A ONE MAMA MAN, FORGOTTEN SWEETIES, THE STING OF STINGS, and FLUTTERING HEARTS, several of which have not been available since early 8mm and 16mm collector prints.

Across these films, Chase is joined by an impressive roster of co-stars, including Lupe Vélez, Jean Arthur, and Eugene Pallette, alongside Hal Roach regulars Anita Garvin, Charley Hall, and Noah Young. The collection also offers invaluable insight into the transitional period of Roach’s production history, including titles from the later Pathé releases and early MGM-distributed works that have long remained difficult to access.

Each film has been meticulously restored by CineMuseum LLC from the best surviving elements, with musical accompaniment by Dr. Andrew Simpson that enhances the rhythm and tone of the original comedies. Optional commentary tracks by noted Hal Roach historian Richard M. Roberts provide detailed historical context and production insight. The set also includes three additional bonus short subjects and an extensive photo gallery, further enriching this archival release.

Both a major restoration achievement and an essential document of silent-era comedy, this set not only preserves a crucial chapter of Charley Chase’s filmography but also reaffirms his place among the great innovators of early cinema—delivering performances and comedic craftsmanship that remain as vibrant and effective today as they were nearly a century ago.

Media

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Bonus Materials

• Three bonus comedy shorts
• Expanded photo gallery

 

Cast & Crew

Actors:

•       Charley Chase
•       Anita Garvin
•       Lupe Velez
•       Jean Arthur
•       Eugene Pallette
•       Charley Hall
•       Stan Laurel
•       Oliver Hardy

Director: James Parrott

Additional Details

Label: Kit Parker Films

Genre: Comedy

Language: English

Run Time: 300 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 11/26/24

UPC: 760137162742