The print from Alpha Video doesn't quite fit the frame and could use some restoration, but as it appears to be the only version of this silent comedy out there, you will need to make the best of it.
Kenneth MacDonald stars as 'Jimmy March'--a nice guy who wants to get ahead in the business world but often is hindered by his despicable rival, Mortimer Fenton. While Fenton is well-liked by others, they don't see the other side of him--the schemer and conniver. Eventually, Jimmy takes enough that he finally knocks Fenton's block off--and even his toadies couldn't help. But Fenton is determined to ruin Jimmy and will do anything to ruin him.
In many ways, this film plays a lot like a Harold Lloyd film--where a nice guy eventually proves his mettle and wins the day...and the girl. However, MacDonald is a lot more athletic looking and doesn't strike that same sad soul that Lloyd perfected in the 1920s. Also, while MacDonald is very physical (more so than Lloyd), this film lacks something you'll always see in Lloyd's--humor. While the story is pleasant and the last portion a crazy string of stunts, it just isn't all that funny. However, it isn't bad...and is worth a peek if you like silents. Just don't expect a laugh riot.
Kenneth MacDonald stars as 'Jimmy March'--a nice guy who wants to get ahead in the business world but often is hindered by his despicable rival, Mortimer Fenton. While Fenton is well-liked by others, they don't see the other side of him--the schemer and conniver. Eventually, Jimmy takes enough that he finally knocks Fenton's block off--and even his toadies couldn't help. But Fenton is determined to ruin Jimmy and will do anything to ruin him.
In many ways, this film plays a lot like a Harold Lloyd film--where a nice guy eventually proves his mettle and wins the day...and the girl. However, MacDonald is a lot more athletic looking and doesn't strike that same sad soul that Lloyd perfected in the 1920s. Also, while MacDonald is very physical (more so than Lloyd), this film lacks something you'll always see in Lloyd's--humor. While the story is pleasant and the last portion a crazy string of stunts, it just isn't all that funny. However, it isn't bad...and is worth a peek if you like silents. Just don't expect a laugh riot.