I was surprised that the previous reviewer did not like this movie until I realized he was reviewing a poor copy that ran only 60 minutes. The movie is now available on a very good Grapevine DVD which runs 68 minutes. Even this is a little too fast. In theaters, it probably ran around 72 or 74 minutes. Back in 1925, the speed was governed by (1) the photographer and (2) the projectionist. In first release theaters, you must also add (3) the conductor of the cinema's orchestra. However, even at Grapevine's 68 minutes, it's a very pleasing movie. I liked it so much, I immediately ran it again -- and that is something I have done only three or four times in my whole life! I don't recall seeing another film directed by Paul Sloane, but if this is a sample of his work, I'll soon he hunting out "Eve's Leaves" (1926) which I know is available. In this film, Richard Dix gives a fine performance in a very difficult role which, in my opinion, he juggles to perfection. The other players have much easier roles, but the lovely Frances Howard and villainous Walter Long capture our attention. Director Sloane juggles the comedy, the action and the romantic elements of the movie perfectly. This is a big budget movie which, in my opinion, adds up to 100% perfect entertainment.
2 Reviews
Preposterous Story From Paramount
GManfred2 June 2012
Always liked Richard Dix, but in this picture he is lost in a muddled storyline which defies credulity. Briefly, he is a boxer with a devastating 'shock punch' (a knockout punch) who meets a girl while on a work-out run in Central Park. He is smitten. Her father owns a skyscraper under construction which has a deadline, or he will lose it. Inexplicably, Dix joins the construction crew to help build it, and things happen - none of which are funny or logical.
There are some tense moments high above street level on girders, reminiscent of Harold Lloyd antics, but what is the point? He is supposed to be a contending boxer and it seems all that is forgotten. His adversary is silent heavy Walter Long, the construction foreman, who tries to sabotage the building and our hero.
This was not an interesting movie except for the gymnastics on the building's frame. It is a hodgepodge of a movie which must have had moviegoers at the time confused and exasperated as I was regarding motive and continuity. Some old movies are best forgotten.
There are some tense moments high above street level on girders, reminiscent of Harold Lloyd antics, but what is the point? He is supposed to be a contending boxer and it seems all that is forgotten. His adversary is silent heavy Walter Long, the construction foreman, who tries to sabotage the building and our hero.
This was not an interesting movie except for the gymnastics on the building's frame. It is a hodgepodge of a movie which must have had moviegoers at the time confused and exasperated as I was regarding motive and continuity. Some old movies are best forgotten.
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