Publicity Pays

"Publicity Pays" an early "Jimmie Jump" one-reel comedy from Charley Chase, is, on the face of it, far wackier than most of Charley Chase's work. Happily, even though in places it has an uncharacteristic feel, that doesn't keep it from being extremely funny. The premise is a humorous one: Chharley's wife is about to become a big stage star, and she needs a scandal to create interest in her as a celebrity. However, not much comes of this ostensible premise except a few corny gag titles and a few shots of Charley Chase and Beth Darlington as his wife dressed in silly theatrical costumes.

The body of the film revolves around the very funny efforts of Charley Chase and his wife to sneak their pet monkey (which presumably they now have because it is the kind of thing that stars have) into a hotel that does not allow animals. This leads into the opportunity for some very good gags which are well set-up even in the ten-minute form (especially one involving a plumbing bill) and some more characteristic Charley Chase comedy situations that have him accidentally finding himself in other people's rooms. There is also the opportunity for a well-done stunt scene in which Charley hangs off a building in Harold Lloyd style -- he doesn't do this too often but perhaps it is appropriate as he was seen as possible Hal Roach's replacement for Lloyd at this point.

This was the first of the Chase shorts directed by Leo McCarey, who would make a great contribution to the series. I can see it being him who brings some great little touches that enhance a lot of the scenes to this short. This is funny and energetic on the whole, and I can imagine it being one that would play especially well with a big crowd.