The Cameraman's Revenge

The impressive animation alone would make this more than worthwhile, and the amusing story alone would make entertaining viewing for any fan of silent comedies. The two together make "The Cameraman's Revenge" a delightful classic that looks much better than practically anything made by the computerized studios of the present time.

The story itself is similar to many other short features of its era - 'Fatty' Arbuckle and other comics of the era made numerous entertaining movies with similar ideas. But having Mr. and Mrs. Beetle, instead of live actors, getting involved in the slapstick escapades with their various insect paramours and rivals makes it funnier and zanier. It works wonderfully well, because the animation is so detailed and painstaking. You can watch it several times and still appreciate the little details. Not only that, the puppet insects are made to act in very 'human' ways, while retaining the accurate form of real insects. It's an amazing and enjoyable combination.

Given how increasingly popular that animation has become, it seems surprising that this and Starewicz's other gems are not much better known and appreciated. This is one of his very best, and is well worth taking the time to see.