His First Flame: A Chaotic Mess of Fire and Pranks

Is it worth your time?

If you have a soft spot for 1930s slapstick and guys with weirdly expressive faces, then sure. It is a breezy, messy little flick that doesn't demand much brainpower.

If you prefer your movies to have, you know, an actual coherent plot or pacing that doesn't feel like it’s being held together by duct tape, stay far away. This one is for the fans of the classics who don't mind a bit of a headache.

Shemp Howard is really the only reason to sit through this. You can tell he’s just waiting for the moment he gets to do something truly ridiculous.

The whole premise of His First Flame is built on petty revenge, which is honestly refreshing. No big stakes, just a guy mad that his house burned down during a wedding. I mean, who wouldn't be?

Some random observations:

• The fire effects are hilariously dated. It looks like they just lit a pile of rags and hoped for the best.
• The pacing is frantic. It’s like the editor was trying to finish the film before their lunch break.
• There is a moment where Sam just stands there staring at the camera while everyone else is running around. It felt like he forgot his lines for a second, but they kept it in anyway.

It’s not as polished as something like Too Many Crooks, but it has a weird, frantic energy that I kinda dug.

The scene where the house burns down? It lingers just long enough to make you wonder if they actually lost a real set piece. It feels a bit dangerous, honestly.

Honestly, the movie is a bit of a fever dream. It reminded me a little of the chaotic energy found in The Champion Shot, but with more smoke and less aim.

Don't expect a masterpiece. Just expect a lot of shouting, some truly questionable prop work, and Shemp being Shemp. 🚒🔥