Dough & Dynamite is a unique Chaplin film in his development in that the plot of the film is far more sophisticated than earlier efforts. Chaplin wrote, edited, and directed the film and it shows Chaplin pushing the boundaries a bit that were imposed by Mack Sennett and Keystone Productions. The film balances its plotting and its comedy while maintaining interest. Chaplin and Chester Conklin work in a bakery where other workers go on strike and scheme to dynamite the ovens while Chaplin continues working inside. Chaplin's editing is just right, and the pacing is perfect despite the longer film. There are dough fights and flour fights, and Chaplin has a unique method for making donuts. The title cards are very funny and the music is more fitting than usual, adding to the enjoyment of the film significantly. However, no doubt the title cards and music were added for prints in later years. **1/2 of 4 stars.
Review of Dough and Dynamite
