The Bluffer (1930) - Andy Clyde and the Rowboat Disaster

So, The Bluffer is one of those old two-reelers that feels like it was filmed on a random Tuesday afternoon. It’s worth a look if you’ve got twenty minutes and a soft spot for Andy Clyde’s confused face.

Most people will probably find it a bit dusty and the audio is kind of crunchy. But if you like seeing people get humbled in a rowboat, you’re in the right place.

Andy Clyde plays the dad. He is determined to pick the absolute worst guy for his daughter to marry.

He chooses this guy Stedman. He acts like he’s some kind of outdoor hero, but he's really just a loudmouth.

The daughter, played by Patsy O'Leary, actually likes Steve Pendleton. He seems like a normal guy, but he doesn't have the fake energy the dad wants.

There is a scene on the beach that feels like it goes on just a little too long. You can see the actors waiting for their cues while the wind blows their hair around.

They finally get into this tiny rowboat. You just know someone is going for a swim sooner or later.

The way Stedman handles the oars is painful to watch. He looks like he’s fighting a giant octopus instead of just rowing in a straight line 🚣.

Then things get a little rough on the water. Not 'ocean storm' rough, just 'shaky camera' rough.

Stedman starts losing his mind. It’s that specific kind of 1930s panic where people wave their arms and make weird faces at the sky.

I noticed there’s a moment where the camera wobbles just a tiny bit. It makes it feel more real, like the cameraman was also worried about falling in.

It reminds me a bit of the family chaos in My Wife's Relations, but with more salt water in the shoes.

The ending isn't a surprise at all. The 'tough guy' turns out to be a wet blanket, literally.

I wish Patsy O'Leary had more lines. She mostly just stands there looking like she'd rather be in Lovebound or literally anywhere else on dry land.

It’s not a masterpiece of cinema. It’s just a funny little sketch about a dad being totally wrong about a guy's character.

If you’re looking for something with more of a plot, maybe try The Door Between instead.

But for a quick laugh at a guy who can't row a boat to save his life, this works fine. 🌊

Things I noticed:

• Andy Clyde's mustache is practically a second lead actor.
• The water looks freezing cold.
• Stedman’s hat stays on way longer than it should.
• The sound of the waves sometimes drowns out the talking.