Days of Thrills and Laughter

Days of Thrills and Laughter is a fascinating watch that serves as an important document in the preservation of early cinematic history, especially for devotees of silent cinema and comedy. This specialty compilation film from both America and British cinema released in 1961 and gathers an impressively eclectic collection of infrequently seen clips from many silent comedies. These snippets often showcase thrilling stunts and irreverent humor that molded the language of film comedy in the early part of the 20th century.

An impressive prism through which the golden age of silent comedy is viewed, Days of Thrills and Laughter primarily features Roscoe 'Fatty' Arbuckle, Charles Chaplin, and Charley Chase, who were among the era's most successful and beloved comedians. Combined, these three performers exhibit a vast array of comedy styles, from slapstick and physical humor to more nuanced and unexpected laughs sprung from piquant characterizations and elaborate comedic inceptions.

Director Robert Youngson expertly stitches these disparate elements together, maintaining an enthusiastic narration through the film. He dissects the mechanics of silent comedy, not trying to impose modern conventions onto these pioneering works but providing necessary context, and enhancing the audiences' appreciation of these comics' artistry.

One of the foremost values of Days of Thrills and Laughter is its exposure of audiences to the work of Roscoe 'Fatty' Arbuckle, who despite his significant contributions to comedy, is often overlooked due to personal scandal. His misadventures are presented in their hilarious glory, demonstrating his versatile comedic style. Arbuckle draws laughs from his substantial girth while also teasing out more subtle jazz of comic timing and misguided bravado. His work is both a tribute to and lampooning of the perilous adventures often portrayed in dramatic silent films.

Charles Chaplin, arguably the most famous silent film star, also gets the limelight in Days of Thrills and Laughter. Heavily admired for his remarkable originality and comedic talents, Chaplin's vignettes brilliantly represent his ability to derive humor with a deft mix of heartwarming circumstances, physical comedy, and societal commentary. His iconic character, The Tramp, continues to resonate with audiences due to its undying charm and empathy.

Charley Chase is another prominent part of this vintage mélange. His scenes showcase a more situational style of comedy, lighter on physical stunts but equally engaging. Chase excelled in everyman characters embroiled in eccentric and entertaining predicaments, earning hearty laughter from the relatable mishaps.

Yet, the film is not an exclusive showcase of these comedic heavyweights. Instead, it also delves into thrilling stunts, death-defying antics, and rip-roaring adventures of lesser-known comedians and action heroes of the era. Large-scale stunts and action sequences are shown, often aligning with the film's title 'Days of Thrills and Laughter'.

Amid the dazzling chaos, the film also manages to capture a whiff of nostalgia by incorporating some of the earliest cinema narratives, hinting at the broader evolution of the film industry. Meanwhile, it also illuminates some of the forgotten or overlooked aspects of the silent era, paying tribute to the neglected heroes of early cinema, both in front of and behind the camera.

All in all, Days of Thrills and Laughter offers a delightful trip down memory lane, reviving the unforgettable heyday of silent cinema. This work of appreciation is a must-watch for every cinephile available, offering insights into an era that's equally beautiful, chaotic, and groundbreaking. The film's seamless blend of humor and thrill excitingly enlivens silent film stars' ingenious performances, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for all. Whether you're a silent cinema aficionado, a comedy enthusiast, or a simple movie-goer with a penchant for cinematic classics, Days of Thrills and Laughter promises a captivating journey celebrating the pioneers of cinema and comedy.