Please Excuse Me Review: The Adventurous Tale of a Collection Agent’s Quest

Short answer: Yes, but it requires a certain mindset to appreciate its charm.

Is this film worth watching? It depends on your perspective. 'Please Excuse Me' is a charming, if somewhat dated, adventure comedy that might not appeal to modern tastes, but it offers a unique take on the David and Goliath narrative and a delightful blend of imagination and reality.

Is this film worth watching?

This film works because: It’s a delightful blend of 1920s adventure and humor, which may resonate with those who enjoy vintage cinema. The story’s structure, where the protagonist’s imaginative tale is played out on screen, offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

This film fails because: The pacing can be slow, and the humor may be less effective in today’s fast-paced, joke-driven comedies. Additionally, the 1920s setting makes some of the plot points feel somewhat dated.

You should watch it if: You’re a fan of vintage cinema, have an appreciation for imaginative storytelling, or are interested in seeing how adventure stories were constructed in the early days of Hollywood.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Please Excuse Me (1926) through its definitive frames.

Acting and Direction

Charles King delivers a solid performance as Charley, bringing a mix of desperation and charm to the role. His interactions with Constance Darling, who plays the young woman, are well-crafted and add a layer of humor to the story. However, the supporting cast, particularly the antagonist portrayed by the Goliath character, could have been more dynamic to create a more compelling conflict.

Cinematography and Pacing

The cinematography is functional, capturing the 1920s setting in a way that feels authentic. The pacing, while occasionally slow, allows for the development of the story and the imaginative sequences. The use of split screens for the protagonist’s story and the real events adds an interesting visual element, although it can be a bit distracting at times.

Tone and Humor

The tone of 'Please Excuse Me' is primarily light and comedic, with a touch of adventure. The humor is based on the contrast between the protagonist’s imaginative tale and the reality of the situation. While some of the jokes might not land with modern audiences, they are still enjoyable in their context. The use of the Goliath character as a foil to the protagonist’s imagination is a clever way to create tension and humor.

Key Takeaways

• Best for: Fans of vintage cinema, those interested in the history of filmmaking, and those who appreciate imaginative storytelling.
• Not for: Modern viewers who demand fast-paced, punchy humor or those who find the pacing too slow.
• Standout element: The use of split screens to differentiate between the protagonist’s imagination and reality.
• Biggest flaw: The pacing can be slow, and some of the humor may not be as effective for modern audiences.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Unique storytelling structure, charming performances, imaginative sequences.
• Cons: Slow pacing, dated humor, some scenes feel a bit drawn out.

Verdict

While 'Please Excuse Me' may not be a groundbreaking film, it offers a delightful journey into the world of 1920s adventure comedies. It’s a film that requires a certain mindset to fully appreciate, but it’s definitely worth watching for those who are interested in vintage cinema and imaginative storytelling. It works. But it’s flawed.