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6.8/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 6.8/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Fallen Arches remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Honestly, only if you're a completist for 1930s shorts or you just really love the idea of someone being forced to walk across the country for a promotion. If you get bored by repetitive gags or need a plot that actually goes somewhere, skip it. You will probably hate this if you prefer modern pacing.
Charley Chase has this way of looking absolutely miserable that is just gold. In Fallen Arches, he’s sent on this hike and you can practically hear his feet aching through the screen. It’s not subtle. It’s not meant to be.
The whole premise is just a giant excuse to throw props at him. Every time he turns a corner, there’s a new disaster waiting. It reminded me a bit of the frantic energy in He Done His Best, where the chaos just never lets up long enough for you to breathe.
I caught myself wondering why he doesn't just catch a bus. But then, it’s a comedy, right? Logic doesn't live here.
It’s definitely not as sharp as The Match King, which had a bit more meat on its bones. This one is just thin, airy, and occasionally painful to watch—in the good way.
Sometimes the film feels like it’s trying to convince you that his pain is hilarious. Most of the time, I just felt bad for the guy. Poor Charley.
If you've seen enough of these, you know exactly when the joke is coming. There's no surprise here. But there’s a charm to that, I guess? It’s like comfort food that’s slightly overcooked. 🚶♂️💨