Review of Tillie's Punctured Romance (1914) by Eric B — 10 Dec 2009

If you want to believe everything Charlie Chaplin touched turned to gold, please avoid this film. The only reason I'm even giving this *two* stars is that it was released so early (1914) that the horrible, flat-footed direction deserves some leniency.

Still, facts are facts: director Sennett just plops a camera in front of the stage and records a whole scene. All wide shots, no close-ups. And thus, very little emotional connection with the characters.

Chaplin's virtuosic pratfalls are the only memorable feature. Note: The uninitiated should be aware that he is not in his "Little Tramp" guise, and instead plays a shabby con-man out to marry for money.

No cane, no derby hat.