Except for Frank Capra's annoying flair for discontinuity, this is a dandy film. Even though the first third or so is lacking in gags, it is only the foundation of a very funny story, and it moves at a good pace throughout. Once Harry takes his fiancé to the forest, the gags start rolling.
I perceive they had a blast making this film. There is no sign of a struggle in the production.
I don't get the other reviewers, dripping with that "Yes, but ..." demeanor. Langdon is still on his game here. Even ahead of his time.
Critics are overlooking Langdon's strong pantomime skills and sense of timing. Harry Langdon may be an acquired taste, but this fan of silent comedy regrets the years wasted in overlooking Langdon's art, just because others downplayed his work.
Here is an example to watch for in "Long Pants". On the morning of his wedding, Harry comes to the bedroom window of his fiancé, to invite her for a walk in the forest. The facial expressions as he communicates to her are priceless. At once, he is dimwitted, cute, engaging, expressive and sinister. I have watched this and many other Langdon scenes, and his ability to communicate subtle and mixed emotions with that face are unforgettable.
Grab some popcorn and enjoy this gem.
I perceive they had a blast making this film. There is no sign of a struggle in the production.
I don't get the other reviewers, dripping with that "Yes, but ..." demeanor. Langdon is still on his game here. Even ahead of his time.
Critics are overlooking Langdon's strong pantomime skills and sense of timing. Harry Langdon may be an acquired taste, but this fan of silent comedy regrets the years wasted in overlooking Langdon's art, just because others downplayed his work.
Here is an example to watch for in "Long Pants". On the morning of his wedding, Harry comes to the bedroom window of his fiancé, to invite her for a walk in the forest. The facial expressions as he communicates to her are priceless. At once, he is dimwitted, cute, engaging, expressive and sinister. I have watched this and many other Langdon scenes, and his ability to communicate subtle and mixed emotions with that face are unforgettable.
Grab some popcorn and enjoy this gem.