5.7/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor

A definitive 5.7/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Get 'Em Young remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Is this film worth watching today? Yes, but it's worth watching with a historical lens. Get 'Em Young is a charming silent comedy from 1922, offering a glimpse into the early days of Hollywood and its comedic styles. However, it's not without its flaws, and while it might not be groundbreaking, it's a delightful piece of cinematic history.
Get 'Em Young is a silent film from 1922, directed by Stan Laurel and co-written with H.M. Walker and James Parrott. The plot follows a young man returning from Europe to fulfill the provisions of a will and win a million dollars. His humorous attempt to pass off his valet as the bride sets the stage for a series of misadventures. The film stars Charlotte Mineau and Fred Malatesta, and features cameo appearances from Stan Laurel and other notable actors of the era. While the plot is predictable, the performances and the zany situations keep the film entertaining, making it a worthwhile watch for silent film enthusiasts and those who appreciate early comedy films.
This film works because of its charming cast, particularly Fred Malatesta, who brings a level of energy and humor that elevates the film. The supporting cast, including cameo appearances from Stan Laurel, adds a layer of familiarity and nostalgia for those who know the early history of silent film comedy. The film's pacing is steady, and the situations are humorous, if not always original.
This film fails because its plot is overly contrived and predictable. The premise of passing off a valet as a bride is amusing, but it's a setup that's been seen many times before. The humor is often reliant on physical comedy that, while effective in its time, may fall flat for modern audiences. Additionally, the film's pacing can be uneven, with some scenes dragging on more than others, which can affect the overall enjoyment.
You should watch it if you're interested in early silent film comedy, you're a fan of Stan Laurel, or you want to experience a slice of cinematic history. It's a charming film that, while not revolutionary, offers a glimpse into the early days of Hollywood and its comedic styles.
While Get 'Em Young is a charming and entertaining film, it's worth watching with a historical lens. It's not without its flaws, but it offers a delightful look at the early days of silent film comedy. For those who appreciate the history and the performances, it's definitely worth a watch. However, for those looking for groundbreaking humor or a modern take on silent film comedy, it might not be the best choice.
While Get 'Em Young is a charming and entertaining film, it's worth watching with a historical lens. It's not without its flaws, but it offers a delightful look at the early days of silent film comedy. For those who appreciate the history and the performances, it's definitely worth a watch. However, for those looking for groundbreaking humor or a fast-paced plot, it might not be the best choice.
Get 'Em Young is a charming silent comedy that, while not without its flaws, offers a delightful look at the early days of silent film comedy. It's a worthwhile watch for those interested in the history of the medium and for those who appreciate early comedy films. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for groundbreaking humor or a fast-paced plot. It works. But it’s flawed.

IMDb —
1917
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