Real comedy never grows old, and even 100 years later, 'Seven years bad luck' very well illustrates that Max Linder was a genius. Situational humor, sight gags, exaggerated characters and performances, a touch of physical comedy, and witty dialogue imparted through intertitles all help to build a funny, solidly enjoyable romp that never drags or wears out its welcome. The early mirror scene, revisited in later years in many other films and TV series, is essential and classic, and only one of the plentiful laughs to be had. Save for those who just can't abide silent films (I was one such person, once upon a time), this is a must-see for everybody.
Linder possessed a brilliant mind and keen eye as writer, director, producer, and actor alike. In an era when technological limitations in some ways restricted the construction of a feature, and the slow march of time constrained films' lasting fidelity, 'Seven years bad luck' feels like a title that was ably and precisely realized just as it was conjured in the first place, and perfectly preserved thereafter. With that, we're treated to exceptional craft in every regard: rich, robust scene writing, and a fun, engaging narrative as the course of events spirals out of control. Wonderfully vibrant, spirited performances from all involved - full of terrific physicality, and slyly rounded out with range and nuance. Fetching costume design, set decoration, and filming locations. Some sharp editing, expert orchestration of each and every moment. And swell guidance of a delightful cast. Truly, in every way, this is such a blast!
A couple passing scenes are borderline indelicate in either how they present or in how one must assume they came to be filmed, or overly silly, and the narrative climax is maybe a hair too neat in its resolution. Yet at any given time that our investment may marginally flag, in the very next instant we're greeted with still more outstanding, lively humor in this tremendous farce. From start to finish the movie works hard to ensure audiences have a good time, and everyone that had a hand in the production is to be commended for their contributions to such a strong, enduring comedy. Any possible subjective shortcomings are handily outweighed by the unceasing, ridiculous entertainment: 'Seven years bad luck' is worth well more than the hour it takes to watch, and anywhere that you can find it, this earns my enthusiastic recommendation.
Linder possessed a brilliant mind and keen eye as writer, director, producer, and actor alike. In an era when technological limitations in some ways restricted the construction of a feature, and the slow march of time constrained films' lasting fidelity, 'Seven years bad luck' feels like a title that was ably and precisely realized just as it was conjured in the first place, and perfectly preserved thereafter. With that, we're treated to exceptional craft in every regard: rich, robust scene writing, and a fun, engaging narrative as the course of events spirals out of control. Wonderfully vibrant, spirited performances from all involved - full of terrific physicality, and slyly rounded out with range and nuance. Fetching costume design, set decoration, and filming locations. Some sharp editing, expert orchestration of each and every moment. And swell guidance of a delightful cast. Truly, in every way, this is such a blast!
A couple passing scenes are borderline indelicate in either how they present or in how one must assume they came to be filmed, or overly silly, and the narrative climax is maybe a hair too neat in its resolution. Yet at any given time that our investment may marginally flag, in the very next instant we're greeted with still more outstanding, lively humor in this tremendous farce. From start to finish the movie works hard to ensure audiences have a good time, and everyone that had a hand in the production is to be commended for their contributions to such a strong, enduring comedy. Any possible subjective shortcomings are handily outweighed by the unceasing, ridiculous entertainment: 'Seven years bad luck' is worth well more than the hour it takes to watch, and anywhere that you can find it, this earns my enthusiastic recommendation.