THE FRESHMAN is the best college spoof film ever made. Outside being lap-slapping hilarious throughout, it has some most original, poetic, and convincing romantic moments as well, like when Harold saw the girl from the reflection of the mirror in his room; or while dancing with other women he saw how she revealed her love for him on the bouquet he gave her, that moment is a wonder. Besides the great football sequence, this film is full of wonderful gags, especially that little dance Harold invented, and the party sequence. Not only this film hasn't aged a bit, but the formula of this film is still used in Hollywood nowadays, but the results hardly, if ever, top this one here.
45 Reviews
As one of Lloyd's biggest fans, I'm shocked that this famous film wasn't great
zetes2 October 2003
Sadly, a disappointment. I love Harold Lloyd, but, though many consider it his masterpiece, I did not find this one of his better works. Not that it's bad or anything, but I thought it lacked jokes compared to an average Lloyd film, and that the jokes that were there weren't as funny as they could have been. There are only two setpieces, and only one of them approaches the greatness of Safety Last or Speedy. That is the college party that Harold throws. He gets a cheap suit made, and the tailor, who can't quite stitch everything he needs to in time for the party, has to follow him around, repairing tears as they happen. It's hilarious, Lloyd dancing all over the floor while his sleeve is ripping off. The best moment of the film has Lloyd use the tailor's arm and hand to replace his own while the sleeve is being repaired. A buddy asks Harold if he can borrow ten bucks, and though he is shaking his head no, the tailor reaches into Harold's pocket and hands the guy a ten. The climactic football game is good, but, compared to the climb that finishes up Safety Last, it is unimpressive and certainly not as fun. I also was disappointed in the romance, again with Jobyna Ralston. Her character seems like an afterthought. 7/10.
The Freshman (1925)
MartinTeller4 January 2012
I know a lot of people consider this to be one of Harold Lloyd's best (and it's certainly one of his most famous) but I felt it came up a little short. Lloyd plays a decent chap trying his best to win popularity at his new school (like a lot of college comedies, going to class seems to be optional). There's some funny gags and inventive moments, and the football finale is rightfully iconic, but a lot of bits are drawn out far long or just aren't that funny. Watching Lloyd embarrass himself on stage or act as the team's tackle dummy or cope with an unraveling tuxedo is amusing at first but becomes tedious after a few minutes. The romance is also quite underdeveloped. I don't want to rag on it too much... as far as slapstick comedies go, it's far less annoying than most. I just expected more laughs. I prefer SAFETY LAST.
Gets My Vote As Lloyd's Funniest
ccthemovieman-126 April 2006
As I continue to delve into the Harold Lloyd films, courtesy the Lloyd Collection DVDs, this movie still ranks as the most entertaining of his silent films. ...and perhaps his funniest, but humor is subject. So far it's number one with me and I know I'm not alone.
Many silent comedies, Lloyd's and others, take 15-20 minutes to warm up but this is fun right from the start. I love Harold's "jig" as he introduces himself to people, thinking he would be "cool" and accepted by doing that, and calling himself "Speedy." I laughed every time he did that, beginning with a very early scene as he prepares himself for college. He was ready to make a big first impression. Of course, all it did was make himself look like a sap, but that's Harold for you, and the type of character he liked to play: a meek, corny-but good-hearted guy who becomes the hero in the end of his stories.
Harold does what he can to become popular in college, figuring the best way would be to be a football hero, since the current gridiron star is the "big man on campus." Harold makes the team, but only out of sympathy for his "spirit." Then, the big game comes and all I can say is that this almost looked like the wild-and- crazy ending of the Marx Brothers in "Horse Feathers." It's not as crazy as the game in that film, but it isn't far behind.
That ending was total lunacy but great fun and Harold winds up making that silly jig and handshake which now has become "in" thing to do, since Harold is the hero! This is a great silent comedy, one of the best from anyone.
Many silent comedies, Lloyd's and others, take 15-20 minutes to warm up but this is fun right from the start. I love Harold's "jig" as he introduces himself to people, thinking he would be "cool" and accepted by doing that, and calling himself "Speedy." I laughed every time he did that, beginning with a very early scene as he prepares himself for college. He was ready to make a big first impression. Of course, all it did was make himself look like a sap, but that's Harold for you, and the type of character he liked to play: a meek, corny-but good-hearted guy who becomes the hero in the end of his stories.
Harold does what he can to become popular in college, figuring the best way would be to be a football hero, since the current gridiron star is the "big man on campus." Harold makes the team, but only out of sympathy for his "spirit." Then, the big game comes and all I can say is that this almost looked like the wild-and- crazy ending of the Marx Brothers in "Horse Feathers." It's not as crazy as the game in that film, but it isn't far behind.
That ending was total lunacy but great fun and Harold winds up making that silly jig and handshake which now has become "in" thing to do, since Harold is the hero! This is a great silent comedy, one of the best from anyone.
A genuine classic... Rockne-esque comedy!
Kiddman18 June 1999
"The Freshman" is a truly funny sports movie... And those are HARD to find! Harold is a nerdy freshman college student, who thinks that college life is JUST like it is in "the movies". He finds out differently once he arrives on campus and soon becomes the campus laughing-stock, so he tries to make the football team and prove everybody wrong.
His pathetic attempts to make the team, and the other goings-on make this fabulous "flicker" one that all film buffs should see!
If you've never seen a "silent", this is a great place to start, because it is easier than most for the neophyte to follow the story because, like most of Lloyd's films, the pacing and story-telling are more modern than most, and the humor seems easier to pick up than a lot of other silent movies.
If you ever get the chance to see this or any other silent movie shown PROPERLY (in an old-time movie palace with live musical accompaniment), DO IT! You will NOT regret the experience!
His pathetic attempts to make the team, and the other goings-on make this fabulous "flicker" one that all film buffs should see!
If you've never seen a "silent", this is a great place to start, because it is easier than most for the neophyte to follow the story because, like most of Lloyd's films, the pacing and story-telling are more modern than most, and the humor seems easier to pick up than a lot of other silent movies.
If you ever get the chance to see this or any other silent movie shown PROPERLY (in an old-time movie palace with live musical accompaniment), DO IT! You will NOT regret the experience!
Good Comedy & Good Performance By Harold Lloyd
Snow Leopard17 December 2002
This is a good comedy with a good performance by Harold Lloyd in the role of "The Freshman". The entertaining slapstick and amusing story tend to obscure how good a job Lloyd did with his character - to make the story work, Lloyd's character has to be a complete buffoon, utterly oblivious to what is going on around him, yet at the same time he has to be sympathetic to the audience. Lloyd makes this work, and combines it with plenty of good gags to make for a silent comedy classic.
The story is simple, but entertaining, following Harold as he learns about life on the campus of Tate University ("a large football stadium with a college attached"). Old campus comedies are often interesting because they show that, for all the things that have changed, some of the basic personalities on a college campus are still the same as they ever were. Here we have the hard-headed football coach, the mean-spirited hazers, the prissy dean, the wide-eyed freshmen, and more. Most of the characters remain one-dimensional, but they don't need to be anything more in order for it to work. Lloyd does a good job of blending his character into the campus atmosphere, and along with help from leading lady Jobyna Ralston, he makes you care about his silly character while providing plenty of laughs in the process.
The story is simple, but entertaining, following Harold as he learns about life on the campus of Tate University ("a large football stadium with a college attached"). Old campus comedies are often interesting because they show that, for all the things that have changed, some of the basic personalities on a college campus are still the same as they ever were. Here we have the hard-headed football coach, the mean-spirited hazers, the prissy dean, the wide-eyed freshmen, and more. Most of the characters remain one-dimensional, but they don't need to be anything more in order for it to work. Lloyd does a good job of blending his character into the campus atmosphere, and along with help from leading lady Jobyna Ralston, he makes you care about his silly character while providing plenty of laughs in the process.
Admirable
kurosawakira31 December 2015
I tried really hard to get into this film, yet perhaps my greatest impediment was that I tried a bit too hard.
Having thoroughly enjoyed "Safety Last!" (1923), I was struggling to move past mere admiration for "The Freshman" (1925). I did admire the technical astuteness of it, the timing of the gags, and Lloyd's impeccable expertise. Yet that's admiration, whereas I'm looking forward to be swept off my feet and to fall in love. (This reaction is not too dissimilar to my feelings about Wes Anderson's "Moonrise Kingdom" [2012]; there's another movie of technical and comic brilliance that I'm more inclined to admire but not love like I did "The Grand Budapest Hotel" [2014], in fact every single minute of it.)
But the final climax, the football game, is perfect and without any doubt the gem of the film. That's where everything seems to transcend that which has come before, and every single gag take a completely new meaning on a whole different kind of level of existence. I was enthralled, laughed out loud, and was holding my breath. What else can one wish for when seeing a film? That final sequence alone makes "The Freshman" a worthwhile experience for me, and perhaps one day I'll be able to appreciate it more as a whole than I do now. But, for the time being, I'll cherish that last run.
Having thoroughly enjoyed "Safety Last!" (1923), I was struggling to move past mere admiration for "The Freshman" (1925). I did admire the technical astuteness of it, the timing of the gags, and Lloyd's impeccable expertise. Yet that's admiration, whereas I'm looking forward to be swept off my feet and to fall in love. (This reaction is not too dissimilar to my feelings about Wes Anderson's "Moonrise Kingdom" [2012]; there's another movie of technical and comic brilliance that I'm more inclined to admire but not love like I did "The Grand Budapest Hotel" [2014], in fact every single minute of it.)
But the final climax, the football game, is perfect and without any doubt the gem of the film. That's where everything seems to transcend that which has come before, and every single gag take a completely new meaning on a whole different kind of level of existence. I was enthralled, laughed out loud, and was holding my breath. What else can one wish for when seeing a film? That final sequence alone makes "The Freshman" a worthwhile experience for me, and perhaps one day I'll be able to appreciate it more as a whole than I do now. But, for the time being, I'll cherish that last run.
Probably Harold Lloyd's best
planktonrules29 April 2006
I was fortunate enough to have seen this film in the theater many years ago and I can owe it to this film for sparking my life-long love of the old comedies. I only recently saw it again but this time on DVD and found the film to be even better than I remembered.
For those used to seeing slapstick shorts (including those of Lloyd), this film is quite different. Instead of the focus of this film being comedy, the humor seems incidental to the story and the character development. Because of this, the first 1/4 of the movie does not have tons of laughs--because it's building and developing the story and not trying to elicit cheap laughs. However, as you watch, the humor increases and because this came as the character developed, you really find yourself hooked into caring for Harold and you are emotionally in-tune with him. So, as the movie continues, you find your heart breaking for the guy (yes, Chaplin was not the only silent comedian to use pathos). And, when the end of the picture arrives, you feel his triumph. An exquisite and highly artistic treasure.
PS--I watched the DVD with the optional commentary from Leonard Maltin et al. This REALLY improved my understanding and appreciation for the film. I rarely ever use this option, but as I was re-watching the film and since it was a silent, this option is a major plus.
Interestingly enough, Buster Keaton came out with a similar movie just a few years later (COLLEGE). However, it isn't even close to being as good as THE FRESHMAN. I love Keaton, but not this film. If you must seem one silent college picture, see THE FRESHMAN--and maybe the Marx Brothers' HORSE FEATHERS for a much stupider but terribly funny sound take on college life.
For those used to seeing slapstick shorts (including those of Lloyd), this film is quite different. Instead of the focus of this film being comedy, the humor seems incidental to the story and the character development. Because of this, the first 1/4 of the movie does not have tons of laughs--because it's building and developing the story and not trying to elicit cheap laughs. However, as you watch, the humor increases and because this came as the character developed, you really find yourself hooked into caring for Harold and you are emotionally in-tune with him. So, as the movie continues, you find your heart breaking for the guy (yes, Chaplin was not the only silent comedian to use pathos). And, when the end of the picture arrives, you feel his triumph. An exquisite and highly artistic treasure.
PS--I watched the DVD with the optional commentary from Leonard Maltin et al. This REALLY improved my understanding and appreciation for the film. I rarely ever use this option, but as I was re-watching the film and since it was a silent, this option is a major plus.
Interestingly enough, Buster Keaton came out with a similar movie just a few years later (COLLEGE). However, it isn't even close to being as good as THE FRESHMAN. I love Keaton, but not this film. If you must seem one silent college picture, see THE FRESHMAN--and maybe the Marx Brothers' HORSE FEATHERS for a much stupider but terribly funny sound take on college life.
A feel good comedy
thinbeach6 December 2015
Warning: Spoilers
It's clear to see why this film is so well loved - Lloyd the geeky underdog goes to college, wins the football match and wins the girl, providing plenty of laughs along the way. A very fresh faced looking Lloyd here has plenty of naive charm, and produces probably the best performance of his career - his round glasses character being more suited to the college setting than any other.
The arrival at college to the first football practice is some of his best material, although things go slightly south after that. His suit falling apart at the ball leans a little too much on the ridiculous, while the football finale is as predictable as they come (though to be fair, he was probably one of the first to do it).
Still, the 76 minute run time breezes along and its certainly entertaining.
The arrival at college to the first football practice is some of his best material, although things go slightly south after that. His suit falling apart at the ball leans a little too much on the ridiculous, while the football finale is as predictable as they come (though to be fair, he was probably one of the first to do it).
Still, the 76 minute run time breezes along and its certainly entertaining.
A Cinematic Touchdown For Mr. Lloyd
Ron Oliver5 August 2003
THE FRESHMAN, new to Tate University, is desperate to join the football team and gain instant popularity with the other students.
Silent film legend Harold Lloyd had a tremendous box-office hit with this exceptionally funny film. His character, the all-American fellow, eager to please and fiercely determined to succeed, but hampered by a broad streak of naiveté, is instantly compelling and grabs the audience's sympathy from the start. His physical comedy set-pieces - acting as the replacement tackling dummy for the football squad, hosting a lavish banquet with his fancy clothes literally falling apart - are merely the preludes to the wonderful gridiron game which climaxes the action. Through it all Harold, peering perplexedly at life through his trademark horn rimmed glasses, never wearies the viewers or wears out his welcome with the audience.
The rest of the cast help move the story along and provide able support to the star. Pretty Jobyna Ralston plays the landlady's daughter who encourages Harold when he needs it most. Brooks Benedict is appropriately caddish as the college bully. Pat Harmon gnashes his teeth with gusto as the intimidating football coach & diminutive Joseph Harrington brings big laughs to his role as a harried tailor given to dizzy spells at the worst possible times.
Composer Robert Israel has created an excellent orchestral score which perfectly complements Lloyd's antics on the screen.
Silent film legend Harold Lloyd had a tremendous box-office hit with this exceptionally funny film. His character, the all-American fellow, eager to please and fiercely determined to succeed, but hampered by a broad streak of naiveté, is instantly compelling and grabs the audience's sympathy from the start. His physical comedy set-pieces - acting as the replacement tackling dummy for the football squad, hosting a lavish banquet with his fancy clothes literally falling apart - are merely the preludes to the wonderful gridiron game which climaxes the action. Through it all Harold, peering perplexedly at life through his trademark horn rimmed glasses, never wearies the viewers or wears out his welcome with the audience.
The rest of the cast help move the story along and provide able support to the star. Pretty Jobyna Ralston plays the landlady's daughter who encourages Harold when he needs it most. Brooks Benedict is appropriately caddish as the college bully. Pat Harmon gnashes his teeth with gusto as the intimidating football coach & diminutive Joseph Harrington brings big laughs to his role as a harried tailor given to dizzy spells at the worst possible times.
Composer Robert Israel has created an excellent orchestral score which perfectly complements Lloyd's antics on the screen.
A True Master?
gavin694220 May 2014
Nerdy college student (Harold Lloyd) will do anything to become popular on campus.
As far as Lloyd comedies go, this film is more plot and character-driven than the constant physical punchlines of his other films (including, of course, "Safety Last"). That takes nothing away from it, but in fact possibly adds something -- proof that this is a man who can do both gags and a straight story.
The Criterion release is incredible, not only for its commentary with Leonard Maltin and friends, but for its inclusion of plenty of Lloyd bonus material -- among other things, it has three short films.
Hopefully through Criterion's efforts the name of Harold Lloyd grows in importance. The silent comedy era always seems to be Charlie Chaplin first, Buster Keaton second... and then Lloyd either a distant third or forgotten completely. He should never be forgotten.
As far as Lloyd comedies go, this film is more plot and character-driven than the constant physical punchlines of his other films (including, of course, "Safety Last"). That takes nothing away from it, but in fact possibly adds something -- proof that this is a man who can do both gags and a straight story.
The Criterion release is incredible, not only for its commentary with Leonard Maltin and friends, but for its inclusion of plenty of Lloyd bonus material -- among other things, it has three short films.
Hopefully through Criterion's efforts the name of Harold Lloyd grows in importance. The silent comedy era always seems to be Charlie Chaplin first, Buster Keaton second... and then Lloyd either a distant third or forgotten completely. He should never be forgotten.
Delightful film
pakitosh21 September 2004
Perhaps one of the best comedies by Mr. Lloyd. The final football game is just a perfect and unique moment in the silent movies history. I was a child when saw The Freshman for first time. It was my first Lloydian "experience". It was enough to fall in love his comedian style. TRIVIA: In Spain this is one of the most popular Lloyd movie. The Spanish title was "El estudiante novato" (The new student). With this film Mister Lloyd showed he could keep the high level showed on his previous long movies. Without doubt he was on the top. His character in this film, Harold Diddlebock, was used again in 1947 in the last Lloyd's film "The sin of Harold Diddlebock", by Preston Sturgues. In this film, the young student is now a medium age clerk tired of his so boring life...An interesting imagination exercise about the future of The Freshman's main character
Big Man on Campus
sol-9 September 2017
Tricked into believing that he is the most popular student on campus, a college freshman gradually proves his worth in this Harold Lloyd silent comedy. This may not be Lloyd's funniest movie with several gags (falling down a staircase) telegraphed too far in advance, but this is a nice departure from Lloyd's earlier comedies with more in the way of character development and a narrative that is more plot than gag orientated. Even Lloyd's most famous work, 'Safety Last!', is most a series of skits loosely connected together, whereas 'The Freshman' spins a surprisingly compelling story with lessons to be learned and characters who change - and 'The Freshman' is still a fun comedy first and foremost even with such solid drama. There is a hilarious extended scene in which Lloyd attends a ball where his tailor has to keep discreetly mending his suit. Another highlight has Lloyd outsmarting a dog and the bits where keeps inadvertently annoying the college dean are awesome. There is also a beautiful shot in which Lloyd wipes the dust off the mirror to reveal his love interest, to his surprise, standing behind him. Jobyna Ralston does not have much to do in the role (compared to her earlier Lloyd collaborations) but she is as solid as ever, and with a great supporting cast to match, this is a Harold Lloyd comedy that lingers in the mind on account of more than just the jokes.
Sorry....but NOT his Best!
normvog25 April 2011
For years, it has been parroted that this is his Best Film. Allow me to disagree. What don't i like about it? First, the student's cruelty to Harold is, at first, annoying. As the story goes on, it becomes painful to watch; even HAROLD cries! Many of the gags just aren't that funny; the "unravelling suit", for example. Much too much time is spent on it, but it's just not that good for the time allotted to it.
The most redeeming thing about the film is the romance that develops between them; it's quite heart-warming & tender. (And, of course, i LOVE the jig he does when he introduces himself!).
Imho, "Safety Last" was his best film, followed closely by "Movie Crazy", "Girl Shy", "Dr.Jack" and others.
The most redeeming thing about the film is the romance that develops between them; it's quite heart-warming & tender. (And, of course, i LOVE the jig he does when he introduces himself!).
Imho, "Safety Last" was his best film, followed closely by "Movie Crazy", "Girl Shy", "Dr.Jack" and others.
Harold goes to college
Petey-1027 May 2004
Lloyd plays Harold Lamb, a youngster who goes to college.He wants to become the king of campus but he becomes the laughing stock.But he has someone to comfort him, a girl named Peggy, who's played by the extremely beautiful Jobyna Ralston.The Freshman from 1925 is a hilarious silent film.Harold Lloyd is a comedian who never lets you down.Also Ralston is amazing as Harold's love interest.There's one dramatic scene between them, where Harold burst into tears into her lap.That's one fine scene as are the comedic scenes, which you can find many from this movie.The great football game in the end is just amazing.And I could also mention the one where the freshman is at the party and his tuxedo falls apart.This is a movie that will make you laugh and that may also make a few tears come out.I recommend The Freshman for all those who are at college and who aren't.
This is still Lloyd's "Greatest" film among many treasures!
bluetiger-13 February 2003
This Is Harold's Lloyd's finest film and my personal favorite among his works. The World Television Premier of the full length newly restored version will air on TCM the first week in April. I can hardly wait! I've been a rabid and dedicated fan for well over half my life since I first saw this picture in a somewhat abridged format on 16mm at a local festival way back in 1979! By the way I am 35 years old and I've been waiting for and trying to locate a complete version for more than 20 years!
The strikingly beautiful Jobyna Ralston is wonderful in her role as Peggy "The Hat Check Girl" Harold's love interest and the hilarious "Fall Frolic" and "Day of The Big Game" sequences are among the grandest and most unforgettable moments in all of silent comedy! Lloyd always gave the credit to his Co-Directors but their can be no doubt who was always in command Harold was every bit the perfectionist that Chaplin was! He supervised and controlled each and every nuance of production!
I must make note of the fact that this film has been blatantly ripped off over the years By numerous film makers when you see It you will know some of those films and the reason why! Harold Lloyd possessed a very special film making "Genius" which is impossible not to recognize 8 decades later!
The strikingly beautiful Jobyna Ralston is wonderful in her role as Peggy "The Hat Check Girl" Harold's love interest and the hilarious "Fall Frolic" and "Day of The Big Game" sequences are among the grandest and most unforgettable moments in all of silent comedy! Lloyd always gave the credit to his Co-Directors but their can be no doubt who was always in command Harold was every bit the perfectionist that Chaplin was! He supervised and controlled each and every nuance of production!
I must make note of the fact that this film has been blatantly ripped off over the years By numerous film makers when you see It you will know some of those films and the reason why! Harold Lloyd possessed a very special film making "Genius" which is impossible not to recognize 8 decades later!
"The Freshman", still so fresh, man!
ElMaruecan8227 August 2018
Sure, we've seen many sports movies with an underdog determined to prove his worth and earn people's respect, going the distance, failing with grace or winning the big game and some heart in the process ... but "The Freshman" IS the original from the roaring twenties, codifying many tropes that hours of 80s sitcoms have engraved in our minds.
You wouldn't believe it but there were college jocks who made it in the football team (probably the "Carpe Diem" ghost whisperers from "Dead Poets Society"), there were even nerds, jokers, pranksters, mean deans, and coaches at the verge of a breakdown. In fact, what you've got in "The Freshman" is the whole college sociology with the popularity pyramid still prevailing today, minus the cheerleaders and justice warriors.
While not as accessible as today (an argument for the film's modern relevance) college has always been a pivotal moment in the life of a few privileged ones, that chronological point of convergence between the athletic and hormonal peak and the most advantageous freedom and responsibilities ratio. There's only one point in college: to have fun, otherwise, why would the Tate college be described as a big stadium with a college attached to it? (a great quote by the way).
And in these idly studious days, popularity played exactly the same role as wealth or power and naturally, the first page of the yearbook was dedicated to the football captain, the most popular figure, the one who always gets the prettiest girl at the prom, as if even in an intellectually driven micro-society, the law of the strongest (and most attractive one) applied. The majority would be relegated to fraternities, football games and Toga parties ("Shout!").
Harold Lamb is as marginal and dorky as any "Animal House" alumni except that he doesn't know it and believes he's the most popular student. His desperation is moved by a sort of Darwinian impulse that only makes sense to those who went to colleges or campuses and couldn't accept to be labeled as nobodies (God forbid!). "Thankfully" for Lamb, his chances of getting unnoticed instantly vanish when the college cad (Brookes Benedict) makes him the butt of many jokes before throwing him on a stage in front of the whole school.
In this critical situation, Lamb can only think of mimicking his movie idol the College Hero with his trademark handshake jig. Automatically nicknamed 'Speedy' like his impersonation, Lamb takes the laughs and applauses as signs of approvals while being a literal lamb sacrificed at the altar of the college dogma, as much in need of a charismatic chief than a village idiot. And there is something sadly ironic that a comedian would play a character who wishes to be loved by being funny but ends up being mocked and despised.
If I dared to psychoanalyze Lamb, I would say he's the reflection of a comedian's existential nightmare: being a clown in the pathetic sense. Just like Chaplin who questioned the notion of comedy by playing someone who couldn't be funny 'on request' in "The Circus", Lloyd gives a sensitive performance as a man you both laugh with and at him, his joy is our satisfaction, his sadness our guilt.
There is bitter sweetness in "The Freshman", with his wide-eyed, optimism and adorkable charm, Lloyd turns out to be the most joyful 'sad clown' figure, the happier he is, the sadder we are. And as if he feared the material would be too mean-spirited, he sugarcoats the story with a blissful romance with the cherubic landlady's daughter Peggy (Jobyna Ralston), the only girl who genuinely likes him, the way he is.
And I was glad that the hilarious Frat Follic sequence (with the tuxedo going to pieces) didn't inflict us the predictable scene where Peggy catches Harold with his pants down... and some girl. That bit would have deprived the film from that powerful moment where he finally understands what's going on... only half the truth actually, but it's enough to devastate him... and awaken in my memory the message a girl left in the back of my class picture at the end of the schoolyear: "it's not about leaving a mark, but what mark you're leaving".
Of course, "The Freshman" didn't have such a downer ending and provided a memorable and heart-pounding climactic football game working like geek escapism at its finest. The final sight with Lloyd making his wet dream a 'wet' reality was as satisfying as "Rocky" or "Rudy" and made me reconsider what I said about Leni Riefenstahl's "Olympia" being the seminal Sports film. "The Freshman" deserves the same title if we believe in the spirit of sports more than the aesthetics, the way it allows us to rise above our condition in a more fictionalized way ... for cheers... and for laughs.
Laugh-wise, the film provides unforgettably creative visual gags and even the intertitles are part of the fun instead of being just verbal vehicles, but there's something nuanced and mature in the film as if you could tell Lloyd wanted a good story rather than a ha-ha picture, he succeeded in both and his film (unlike "Safety Last!") made the AFI's Top 100 List. It's one thing to be about a goofball but embracing the whole goofiness would have killed the heart of the story.
Speaking of the heart, in an early 1953 episode of TV game show "What's My Line", available on Youtube, panelist Dorothy Killgalen told mystery guest Harold Lloyd that she cried at "The Freshman" as a little girl because of the way his fictional alter-ego was mistreated. This seemingly benign and cute confession had picked my curiosity.
Obviously "The Freshman" was more than a slapstick comedy about a nerd playing football, it carried a genuine poignancy that I needed to discover. I just didn't expect it would be of such a Chaplinian level!
You wouldn't believe it but there were college jocks who made it in the football team (probably the "Carpe Diem" ghost whisperers from "Dead Poets Society"), there were even nerds, jokers, pranksters, mean deans, and coaches at the verge of a breakdown. In fact, what you've got in "The Freshman" is the whole college sociology with the popularity pyramid still prevailing today, minus the cheerleaders and justice warriors.
While not as accessible as today (an argument for the film's modern relevance) college has always been a pivotal moment in the life of a few privileged ones, that chronological point of convergence between the athletic and hormonal peak and the most advantageous freedom and responsibilities ratio. There's only one point in college: to have fun, otherwise, why would the Tate college be described as a big stadium with a college attached to it? (a great quote by the way).
And in these idly studious days, popularity played exactly the same role as wealth or power and naturally, the first page of the yearbook was dedicated to the football captain, the most popular figure, the one who always gets the prettiest girl at the prom, as if even in an intellectually driven micro-society, the law of the strongest (and most attractive one) applied. The majority would be relegated to fraternities, football games and Toga parties ("Shout!").
Harold Lamb is as marginal and dorky as any "Animal House" alumni except that he doesn't know it and believes he's the most popular student. His desperation is moved by a sort of Darwinian impulse that only makes sense to those who went to colleges or campuses and couldn't accept to be labeled as nobodies (God forbid!). "Thankfully" for Lamb, his chances of getting unnoticed instantly vanish when the college cad (Brookes Benedict) makes him the butt of many jokes before throwing him on a stage in front of the whole school.
In this critical situation, Lamb can only think of mimicking his movie idol the College Hero with his trademark handshake jig. Automatically nicknamed 'Speedy' like his impersonation, Lamb takes the laughs and applauses as signs of approvals while being a literal lamb sacrificed at the altar of the college dogma, as much in need of a charismatic chief than a village idiot. And there is something sadly ironic that a comedian would play a character who wishes to be loved by being funny but ends up being mocked and despised.
If I dared to psychoanalyze Lamb, I would say he's the reflection of a comedian's existential nightmare: being a clown in the pathetic sense. Just like Chaplin who questioned the notion of comedy by playing someone who couldn't be funny 'on request' in "The Circus", Lloyd gives a sensitive performance as a man you both laugh with and at him, his joy is our satisfaction, his sadness our guilt.
There is bitter sweetness in "The Freshman", with his wide-eyed, optimism and adorkable charm, Lloyd turns out to be the most joyful 'sad clown' figure, the happier he is, the sadder we are. And as if he feared the material would be too mean-spirited, he sugarcoats the story with a blissful romance with the cherubic landlady's daughter Peggy (Jobyna Ralston), the only girl who genuinely likes him, the way he is.
And I was glad that the hilarious Frat Follic sequence (with the tuxedo going to pieces) didn't inflict us the predictable scene where Peggy catches Harold with his pants down... and some girl. That bit would have deprived the film from that powerful moment where he finally understands what's going on... only half the truth actually, but it's enough to devastate him... and awaken in my memory the message a girl left in the back of my class picture at the end of the schoolyear: "it's not about leaving a mark, but what mark you're leaving".
Of course, "The Freshman" didn't have such a downer ending and provided a memorable and heart-pounding climactic football game working like geek escapism at its finest. The final sight with Lloyd making his wet dream a 'wet' reality was as satisfying as "Rocky" or "Rudy" and made me reconsider what I said about Leni Riefenstahl's "Olympia" being the seminal Sports film. "The Freshman" deserves the same title if we believe in the spirit of sports more than the aesthetics, the way it allows us to rise above our condition in a more fictionalized way ... for cheers... and for laughs.
Laugh-wise, the film provides unforgettably creative visual gags and even the intertitles are part of the fun instead of being just verbal vehicles, but there's something nuanced and mature in the film as if you could tell Lloyd wanted a good story rather than a ha-ha picture, he succeeded in both and his film (unlike "Safety Last!") made the AFI's Top 100 List. It's one thing to be about a goofball but embracing the whole goofiness would have killed the heart of the story.
Speaking of the heart, in an early 1953 episode of TV game show "What's My Line", available on Youtube, panelist Dorothy Killgalen told mystery guest Harold Lloyd that she cried at "The Freshman" as a little girl because of the way his fictional alter-ego was mistreated. This seemingly benign and cute confession had picked my curiosity.
Obviously "The Freshman" was more than a slapstick comedy about a nerd playing football, it carried a genuine poignancy that I needed to discover. I just didn't expect it would be of such a Chaplinian level!
Harold Lloyd is his awkward, lovable self
gbill-7487715 November 2018
Harold Lloyd is his awkward, lovable self in 'The Freshman', where he goes off to college seeking popularity. He's mostly mocked without realizing it, and after trying out for the football team, is used as a tackling dummy in practice and then as a water boy during the game, though of course thinks he may go in at any time. He hosts a big dance, the 'Fall Frolic', but has his ill-tailored suit falls apart as he tries to move around. There are few laugh out loud moments, even if the film's heart is in the right place, and some of the scenes go on for just a little too long. Seeing football played so long ago, even comically, with those thin leather helmets and that puffier ball, and finding out the crowd scenes were shot at halftime during the 1924 'Big Game' between Cal and Stanford, was also personally interesting. That move where he unlaces the ball is pretty cool too. Lastly, and this is kind of a quirky thing of mine, but I like how Lloyd gives us shots of objects or things in print in his films, in this case various books from the period, newspaper articles, and a crossword puzzle he notices Jobyna Ralston doing on a train and tries to help her with. Even her final message to him is a handwritten note, and very sweet. Not quite as good as 'Safety Last' or 'Girl Shy' from the previous two years, but solid entertainment.
"Tate University - A large football stadium, with a college attached."
Bored_Dragon25 February 2022
The naive nerd comes to college with the desire to become popular at any cost. To that end, he imitates the main character of his favorite movie "The College Hero", and other students support him in that, laughing behind his back. Since the most popular student is the captain of the football team, our clumsy decides to try his hand at American football and become the new star of Tate College.
"The Freshman" is the most successful film by Harold Lloyd, who, together with Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, makes a holy trinity of comedians from the silent film era. It is considered the first sports comedy and the founder of the college comedy genre.
This satire of life in college is a combination of slapstick comedy and situation comedy, with the now-classic lesson of how to stay true to yourself and be who you are, while pretending to be something you think others expect from you will not bring anything good.
In its time, the blockbuster that caused a flood of similar films in the following years, "The Freshman" did not age badly and I think it can entertain even the younger generations, accustomed to modern adrenaline injections, if they approach it without prejudice.
8/10.
"The Freshman" is the most successful film by Harold Lloyd, who, together with Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, makes a holy trinity of comedians from the silent film era. It is considered the first sports comedy and the founder of the college comedy genre.
This satire of life in college is a combination of slapstick comedy and situation comedy, with the now-classic lesson of how to stay true to yourself and be who you are, while pretending to be something you think others expect from you will not bring anything good.
In its time, the blockbuster that caused a flood of similar films in the following years, "The Freshman" did not age badly and I think it can entertain even the younger generations, accustomed to modern adrenaline injections, if they approach it without prejudice.
8/10.
Funny College Comedy.
rmax3048233 January 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Harold Lloyd, he of the thick round glasses, is a college freshman in 1925, the days of Prohibition, beanies, flappers, the fox trot, and college sweaters with big letters on the chest. It's one of his funnier movies.
He's the butt of everyone's jokes from beginning to end, except for the maid of simple taste who loves him. He's mad to be on the varsity football team and the others kid him into believing he's one of them instead of the humble water boy he actually is.
Two scenes are especially amusing. The first has Lloyd attending a gala party with newly made evening clothes held together only with basting. This affords him a chance to pull off two hoary but still funny shticks. One is the costume that falls apart piece by piece in public. He pulls it off with a good deal of imagination. His tailor must follow him around at the dance, trying to sew the pieces back on, but the tailor is subject to disabling dizzy spells, forcing Lloyd to search all the men's pockets for a hip flask. I won't describe the rest of the to-do.
Another gag at the party involves the hidden hand of someone else extending from the curtain behind Lloyd. I can't even count the number of times this vaudeville bit has been shown on the screen. "I Love Lucy," of course, and "Young Frankenstein." But this is as good as any other example. Lloyd is standing against the curtain, chatting to a co ed, with his right arm slipped back through the separation so the tailor can re-attach a fugitive sleeve. A man comes up and asks to borrow ten dollars. The tailor's hand emerges from the curtain and scratches Lloyd's head while he thinks this over then assents. The fake hand extracts the money from Lloyd's pocket and hands it to the other. The man thanks Lloyd profusely and the fake hand rests on his shoulder while Lloyd's REAL hand extracts the bill from the other guy's pocket and returns it to his own.
The second amusing moment comes at the climactic football game with all sorts of shenanigans going on. Does Lloyd the water boy get called in to play? Does he make a lot of foolish errors? Does he finally win the game? No power on earth could get me to tell.
Well, I'll mention one example of the silliness. Yes, he's finally called in, and he gallops out onto the field, delivers a furious, uncharacteristic, hapax legomenon of a pep talk, much to the awe of the other players. They assemble. Hike. Lloyd takes the ball and plunges ahead. The other pile on him. As they slowly disperse we see Lloyd flat on his back, his arms outspread, completely unconscious, no football in sight.
Lloyd was no Charlie Chaplin. He was probably as good a physical actor but he didn't have Chaplin's genius for either outrageously funny situations, the set ups for them, or Chaplin's sometimes excessive penchant for sentiment. At his most humiliated, Lloyd doesn't look quite as pathetic as Chaplin did.
Not to knock Lloyd. He's a fine comedian in his own right, and he put out several riotously funny movies -- this one among them.
He's the butt of everyone's jokes from beginning to end, except for the maid of simple taste who loves him. He's mad to be on the varsity football team and the others kid him into believing he's one of them instead of the humble water boy he actually is.
Two scenes are especially amusing. The first has Lloyd attending a gala party with newly made evening clothes held together only with basting. This affords him a chance to pull off two hoary but still funny shticks. One is the costume that falls apart piece by piece in public. He pulls it off with a good deal of imagination. His tailor must follow him around at the dance, trying to sew the pieces back on, but the tailor is subject to disabling dizzy spells, forcing Lloyd to search all the men's pockets for a hip flask. I won't describe the rest of the to-do.
Another gag at the party involves the hidden hand of someone else extending from the curtain behind Lloyd. I can't even count the number of times this vaudeville bit has been shown on the screen. "I Love Lucy," of course, and "Young Frankenstein." But this is as good as any other example. Lloyd is standing against the curtain, chatting to a co ed, with his right arm slipped back through the separation so the tailor can re-attach a fugitive sleeve. A man comes up and asks to borrow ten dollars. The tailor's hand emerges from the curtain and scratches Lloyd's head while he thinks this over then assents. The fake hand extracts the money from Lloyd's pocket and hands it to the other. The man thanks Lloyd profusely and the fake hand rests on his shoulder while Lloyd's REAL hand extracts the bill from the other guy's pocket and returns it to his own.
The second amusing moment comes at the climactic football game with all sorts of shenanigans going on. Does Lloyd the water boy get called in to play? Does he make a lot of foolish errors? Does he finally win the game? No power on earth could get me to tell.
Well, I'll mention one example of the silliness. Yes, he's finally called in, and he gallops out onto the field, delivers a furious, uncharacteristic, hapax legomenon of a pep talk, much to the awe of the other players. They assemble. Hike. Lloyd takes the ball and plunges ahead. The other pile on him. As they slowly disperse we see Lloyd flat on his back, his arms outspread, completely unconscious, no football in sight.
Lloyd was no Charlie Chaplin. He was probably as good a physical actor but he didn't have Chaplin's genius for either outrageously funny situations, the set ups for them, or Chaplin's sometimes excessive penchant for sentiment. At his most humiliated, Lloyd doesn't look quite as pathetic as Chaplin did.
Not to knock Lloyd. He's a fine comedian in his own right, and he put out several riotously funny movies -- this one among them.
A Harold Lloyd Classic
CJBx720 November 2014
THE FRESHMAN (1925) deals with Harold Lamb's (Harold Lloyd) endeavors to become a popular man on campus, by joining the football team, only to find that the other kids think he's the "college boob". Still, with the support of his girl Peggy (Jobyna Ralston), he manages to show them all what he's really made of. Directed by Fred Newmeyer and Sam Taylor.
This film was one of Harold Lloyd's biggest successes, and is now part of the National Film Registry. THE FRESHMAN represents the culmination of Harold Lloyd's development of his lovable nerd persona – clumsy and awkward, but plucky, full of spirit, and never quits. This had a tremendous appeal to 20s audiences and is still quite endearing today. THE FRESHMAN kickstarted a spate of college-based movies, and many movies to this day use the same kinds of characters – the nerd, the insensitive jock, the girl who sticks by the leading man's side even when no one else believes in him, etc.
The movie has some brilliantly constructed gags - just when you think they can't go on any more, Lloyd comes up with something else to amaze you. My favorite is the party in the hotel, which features a dizzy tailor trying in vain to mend Lloyd's tuxedo. Also funny is the scene where Lloyd's character has to make an impromptu speech to his class while wrestling with a cat.
Harold plays his character with his typical peppy charm, and Jobyna Ralston makes a nice love interest. Everyone here is effective in his or her roles and the film doesn't wear out its welcome. It's easy to see why this movie was so popular in its time, and it still has lots of comic appeal today. SCORE: 8/10
This film was one of Harold Lloyd's biggest successes, and is now part of the National Film Registry. THE FRESHMAN represents the culmination of Harold Lloyd's development of his lovable nerd persona – clumsy and awkward, but plucky, full of spirit, and never quits. This had a tremendous appeal to 20s audiences and is still quite endearing today. THE FRESHMAN kickstarted a spate of college-based movies, and many movies to this day use the same kinds of characters – the nerd, the insensitive jock, the girl who sticks by the leading man's side even when no one else believes in him, etc.
The movie has some brilliantly constructed gags - just when you think they can't go on any more, Lloyd comes up with something else to amaze you. My favorite is the party in the hotel, which features a dizzy tailor trying in vain to mend Lloyd's tuxedo. Also funny is the scene where Lloyd's character has to make an impromptu speech to his class while wrestling with a cat.
Harold plays his character with his typical peppy charm, and Jobyna Ralston makes a nice love interest. Everyone here is effective in his or her roles and the film doesn't wear out its welcome. It's easy to see why this movie was so popular in its time, and it still has lots of comic appeal today. SCORE: 8/10
THE FRESHMAN (Fred Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, 1925) ***1/2
Bunuel197618 December 2006
One of Harold Lloyd's most popular vehicles, which Leonard Maltin rates **** - though I personally prefer SAFETY LAST (1923; only a *** in the famed and genial critic's book!) over it. Still, THE FRESHMAN is a marvelous comedy and an unmistakable classic (which, as was Lloyd's norm, featured wonderful cinematography that involved numerous in-camera 'tricks'). However, as mentioned in the accompanying Audio Commentary (by Maltin himself among others), the film is more character-driven - and, therefore, less gag-laden - than usual for Lloyd; interestingly, too, while normally the star/producer would shoot the central set-piece first and then devise a plot around it, he couldn't do so here because the central character's motivation during the concluding football game wasn't possible unless Lloyd and his writers had thoroughly worked out what led up to it!
Needless to say, the film's college setting (a theme which endures to this day) has proved to be a very popular backdrop with star comedians along the years - beginning with Lloyd's contemporaries: it was followed by Buster Keaton's COLLEGE (1927), The Marx Bros.' HORSE FEATHERS (1932) and Laurel & Hardy's A CHUMP AT OXFORD (1940). The gags, too, are of a very high standard: the opening scene where Lloyd's wacky college yells are mistaken by his father, an amateur radio enthusiast, for static (the look of disappointment on his face when he realizes the source of his 'reception' is priceless); Lloyd modeling his persona after the lead of a college-set film he watched, encapsulated in an elaborate dance step he makes prior to introducing himself to anyone, and which our hero fervently copies in the hope of gaining acceptance among his peers; Lloyd, rejected for the all-important football team, is eventually asked to serve as a 'dummy' on which his colleagues can perform their training!; the lengthy party sequence (in which the star is accompanied -because of his fragile costume - by an elderly tailor, suffering from periodical dizzy spells) is hysterically funny; the justly-celebrated football game, then, provides the perfect climax to the film (and was actually reprised over 20 years later by none other than Preston Sturges for the opening sequence of what turned out to be Lloyd's swan-song, THE SIN OF HAROLD DIDDLEBOCK [1947]).
As was the case with GIRL SHY (1924), the plot occasionally resorts to sentiment (one such scene, where Harold breaks down on leading lady Jobyna Ralston's lap, was actually removed by the star himself for subsequent re-issues because it was deemed excessive but, happily, it has been re-instated for this version): here, too, the emotional scenes are beautifully handled and do not sit uncomfortably alongside the slapstick or deter from the fun in any way.
Needless to say, the film's college setting (a theme which endures to this day) has proved to be a very popular backdrop with star comedians along the years - beginning with Lloyd's contemporaries: it was followed by Buster Keaton's COLLEGE (1927), The Marx Bros.' HORSE FEATHERS (1932) and Laurel & Hardy's A CHUMP AT OXFORD (1940). The gags, too, are of a very high standard: the opening scene where Lloyd's wacky college yells are mistaken by his father, an amateur radio enthusiast, for static (the look of disappointment on his face when he realizes the source of his 'reception' is priceless); Lloyd modeling his persona after the lead of a college-set film he watched, encapsulated in an elaborate dance step he makes prior to introducing himself to anyone, and which our hero fervently copies in the hope of gaining acceptance among his peers; Lloyd, rejected for the all-important football team, is eventually asked to serve as a 'dummy' on which his colleagues can perform their training!; the lengthy party sequence (in which the star is accompanied -because of his fragile costume - by an elderly tailor, suffering from periodical dizzy spells) is hysterically funny; the justly-celebrated football game, then, provides the perfect climax to the film (and was actually reprised over 20 years later by none other than Preston Sturges for the opening sequence of what turned out to be Lloyd's swan-song, THE SIN OF HAROLD DIDDLEBOCK [1947]).
As was the case with GIRL SHY (1924), the plot occasionally resorts to sentiment (one such scene, where Harold breaks down on leading lady Jobyna Ralston's lap, was actually removed by the star himself for subsequent re-issues because it was deemed excessive but, happily, it has been re-instated for this version): here, too, the emotional scenes are beautifully handled and do not sit uncomfortably alongside the slapstick or deter from the fun in any way.
Lackluster Comedy
film_poster_fan5 May 2022
"The Freshman" is not Harold Lloyd's best film. It seems to rather predictable. Some people on this database are determined to compare this film with Buster Keaton's "College" which was made two years later and put Keaton's film in a negative way. Just because they are both silent comedies about higher education does not mean they should be compared necessarily, but if one insists on comparing them, then Keaton's is the better one. It is more sophisticated, funnier, and better acted. One reviewer professes to be "a HUGE fan of Buster Keaton" and then goes on to denigrate "College" in his review of the film. That type of fan (a hypocrite) Keaton does not need. For the "Freshman" Lloyd used two directors. In the same year, Keaton made "Seven Chances" and "Go West" and directed both himself.
Lloyd Popularizes College Movies
springfieldrental4 February 2022
Comedian Harold Lloyd habit was to film his rousing climatic scenes first and then backfill the story. He was doing that in his August 1925 "The Freshman,' which features him as a waterboy for the Taft College football team playing its big football game. His film crew shot the game on Pasadena, California's Rose Bowl's field. Then Lloyd viewed the raw footage just shot. Since the movie was a character-study focused on an incoming college freshman, he felt something wasn't right.
Lloyd scrapped the football footage and went directly to the story's beginning, where he's at home ready to leave for college. His naïveté is shown by his preparation to learn all about campus life through a movie he's seen numerous times. The knowledge he gained from that film eventually became both a detriment and a door opener.
"The Freshman," one of Lloyd's most popular feature films, began a string of Hollywood movies about college life, some containing sidebar stories of football competitions. During the first five years of the 1920s, only 12 movies concentrated on college living. In the next three years after "The Freshman," there appeared over 60 movies with that campus theme. Memorable comedic films centered around the game of football included those of Buster Keaton, the Marx Brothers and the Three Stooges. And the hilarious Hollywood look on student living, such as 1978's 'Animal House,' 1984's 'Revenge of the Nerds,' and 2003's 'Old School,' have their origins in Lloyd's pioneering 1925 film, "The Freshman."
Lloyd tapped into all the foibles young college students possess when first entering this new world of theirs. Social acceptance within fellow classmates, peer pressure within a group, and as an extension, being popular within the student body, are important to incoming undergrads. At the same time, one's identity gained from all those years at home before embarking on a new journey is crucial in retaining a true self, even if the college-bound student wears glasses, is naive, and nerdy, all traits Lloyd's character possesses. He highlights such awkwardness for the campus life in three set pieces: Lloyd finds himself accidentally on the stage during orientation, forced to make a speech despite a kitten inside his sweater; boldly volunteering himself as the host of a big formal Fall Frolic dance, only to see his tuxedo rip by the seams in the middle of the party; and the championship football game.
"The Freshman" was the final Lloyd film for the distributor of all his movies since 1915, Pathe. He signed with Paramount for a far more lucrative contract, insuring his finances would be set for life. With the movie as the second highest box office sensation for 1925, Lloyd's popularity continued to soar. American Film Institute recognized the influence "The Freshman" had on future cinema, listing it as the 79th Funniest Movie of all-time.
Lloyd scrapped the football footage and went directly to the story's beginning, where he's at home ready to leave for college. His naïveté is shown by his preparation to learn all about campus life through a movie he's seen numerous times. The knowledge he gained from that film eventually became both a detriment and a door opener.
"The Freshman," one of Lloyd's most popular feature films, began a string of Hollywood movies about college life, some containing sidebar stories of football competitions. During the first five years of the 1920s, only 12 movies concentrated on college living. In the next three years after "The Freshman," there appeared over 60 movies with that campus theme. Memorable comedic films centered around the game of football included those of Buster Keaton, the Marx Brothers and the Three Stooges. And the hilarious Hollywood look on student living, such as 1978's 'Animal House,' 1984's 'Revenge of the Nerds,' and 2003's 'Old School,' have their origins in Lloyd's pioneering 1925 film, "The Freshman."
Lloyd tapped into all the foibles young college students possess when first entering this new world of theirs. Social acceptance within fellow classmates, peer pressure within a group, and as an extension, being popular within the student body, are important to incoming undergrads. At the same time, one's identity gained from all those years at home before embarking on a new journey is crucial in retaining a true self, even if the college-bound student wears glasses, is naive, and nerdy, all traits Lloyd's character possesses. He highlights such awkwardness for the campus life in three set pieces: Lloyd finds himself accidentally on the stage during orientation, forced to make a speech despite a kitten inside his sweater; boldly volunteering himself as the host of a big formal Fall Frolic dance, only to see his tuxedo rip by the seams in the middle of the party; and the championship football game.
"The Freshman" was the final Lloyd film for the distributor of all his movies since 1915, Pathe. He signed with Paramount for a far more lucrative contract, insuring his finances would be set for life. With the movie as the second highest box office sensation for 1925, Lloyd's popularity continued to soar. American Film Institute recognized the influence "The Freshman" had on future cinema, listing it as the 79th Funniest Movie of all-time.
"The Freshman" Harold Lloyd
alexadaniels-2564830 January 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I found the movie "The Freshman" by Harold Lloyd to be incredibly captivating for a silent film. I have only watched one other silent film, "The Circus", and had to watch both that one and this one for a class. Generally, on my own, I would never pick to watch an older movie, so I am very happy this class has made me because I am pleasantly surprised. I found the film to be easy to follow and it was able to keep my interest through out it. Humor, love, and sadness were easily displayed and presented from start to finish. My personal favorite scene was when Harold and Peggy met on the train doing the crossword puzzle. I found their interaction to be really meaningful even without voice. The most upsetting part to me was when Harold learned he was the laughing stock of the school, and again, even without voice, you could feel the pain and his facial expressions and body language and it broke my heart. The intertitle then came up "It doesn't bother me a bit- really; a fellow has to expect those things, you know." and I could read/hear the voice trembling. In this example, I enjoyed having an intertitle, however, the only thing I did not care for was the amount of intertitles there were in the beginning, specifically the first few minutes. I found starting it off with so many in a row made it hard to jump right into enjoying and understanding the film.
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