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5.5/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 5.5/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Half a Man remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
In the rarefied realm of cinematic comedy, few films have managed to distill the essence of humor quite like Half a Man. This charming, oft-overlooked gem, starring the inimitable Stan Laurel, is a masterclass in comedic storytelling, replete with laugh-out-loud moments and endearing characterizations.
Laurel, at the height of his comedic powers, portrays a winsome, yet credulous young man who finds himself stranded on a picturesque island, inhabited by a coterie of enterprising women. The Greek Interpreter-esque setup serves as a springboard for a series of hilarious misadventures, as Laurel's character navigates this unfamiliar terrain with all the guile of a, well, naive young man.
The island's inhabitants, expertly played by Blanche Payson, Murray Rock, Julie Leonard, and Tui Bow, are a sprightly bunch, quick to capitalize on Laurel's gullibility. Their leader, a feisty and charismatic woman (Payson), orchestrates a series of comedic schemes, each more outlandish than the last, to exploit Laurel's innocent nature. As the story unfolds, Laurel's character becomes embroiled in a series of absurd, often surreal situations, showcasing his remarkable comedic talents.
The Triumph of Love-like themes of deception and mistaken identity are deftly woven throughout the narrative, adding an extra layer of complexity to the proceedings. Writer-director Tay Garnett deserves credit for his clever, economical script, which deftly balances humor and heart, never shying away from poking fun at Laurel's lovable, yet hapless character.
Visually, the film is a treat, with a lush, vibrant color palette that perfectly captures the island's tropical beauty. The cinematography is crisp and clean, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the world of the film. One can't help but draw comparisons to the Master Cracksman's similarly idyllic settings, though Half a Man's tone is decidedly more lighthearted.
In an era dominated by CGI and over-the-top comedies, Half a Man stands as a refreshing anomaly, a charming, old-school romp that relies on the talents of its gifted cast and crew to generate laughs. Laurel's remarkable comedic abilities, coupled with the supporting cast's impressive performances, make for a viewing experience that is at once both nostalgic and timeless.
Fans of Laurel's work will undoubtedly delight in his character's misadventures, though newcomers to his oeuvre may find themselves equally charmed by his winsome, everyman persona. A Sky-Eye-like sense of wonder and curiosity pervades the film, as Laurel's character stumbles from one absurd situation to the next, never failing to endear himself to the viewer.
In conclusion, Half a Man is a hidden gem, a sidesplitting comedy of errors that showcases Stan Laurel's remarkable talents and deftly balances humor and heart. If you're a fan of classic comedies, or simply looking for a charming, old-school romp, do yourself a favor and seek out this oft-overlooked masterpiece.
Additional comparisons to Daddy, The Mask, Channing of the Northwest, When the Devil Drives, Miraklet: Tavlor ur det katolska samfundslivet, Tkies khaf, The Sky Hunters, The Detectress, Unknown Switzerland, The Eye of Envy, and Ballet mécanique may also prove fruitful for enthusiasts of vintage cinema.
IMDb 7.1
1935
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