Film Review

For those who don't know, Turner Classic Movies always shows old silent films on Sunday nights at midnight eastern time (which is a bit of a shame, as it means many people across all time zones have gone to bed or are getting ready to sleep by the time such movies come on). Last Sunday, they showed "Speedy", Harold Lloyd's last silent comedy. It's a delightful little film, and taking a lead from Mr. Loomis, here are 3 quick thoughts:

1) The opening panorama of the New York City is remarkable. Keep in mind that the Chrysler building had only begun construction in 1928, and the Empire State Building was still just an architect's idea. Many still feel it's odd seeing the Manhattan skyline without the World Trade Center towers. I recommend they get a load of the Manhattan skyline in 1928.

2) Babe Ruth. One of the subplots of the film is Speedy (Lloyd) loves the Yankees [a sad flaw in an otherwise fine film], and at one point, he drives Babe Ruth to the stadium. The best thing is, it's really Babe Ruth, and he's charming and endearing in his part. Plus, it's some of the clearest film footage of Ruth (far better than the footage of his games). Thus, this movie's good for both film historians and baseball fans alike.

3) I love silents in general. If you don't like a movie that has about 4 plots just to make it to 85 minutes, then this film is not for you (nor are most silents). However, I love being tugged along as far as they can take me, and Speedy definitely comes through in that regard.