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"Summer Lightning" is a novel by British author P.G. Wodehouse, first published in July 1929. The story is in the fictional Blandings Castle, home to Lord Emsworth and his eccentric family. The plot revolves around the theft of Lord Emsworth's prize-winning pig, Empress of Blandings, and the various romantic entanglements among the castle's residents and visitors. As a part of the Blandings Castle series, this comic novel is one of Wodehouse's most beloved works and showcases his signature wit and humor. The main characters include Lord Emsworth, his brother Galahad Threepwood, the pig's keeper, George Cyril Wellbeloved, and the scheming Lord Tilbury, who owns a publishing company. Other characters like Ronnie Fish, Sue Brown, and Monty Bodkin contribute to the various misunderstandings and comedic situations throughout the novel. The story unfolds as a series of deceptions and manipulations, with multiple characters vying for control over the pig and various romantic interests. "Summer Lightning" has been praised for its clever and intricate plot, engaging characters, and Wodehouse's unique blend of British humor. The novel has been adapted into several formats, including radio, television, and film, further solidifying its place in popular culture. As a prime example of Wodehouse's writing skill, "Summer Lightning" continues to entertain and delight readers nearly a century after its original publication.

In "Any Old Port," Stan and Ollie find themselves at a run-down hotel, assisting a young girl in evading the menacing landlord, Long. They hastily leave the hotel with no funds, and Ollie sets up a boxing match for Stan to earn $50. However, Stan faces Musgy, an opponent with a rigged glove. Amidst the bout, the glove is exchanged, leading to Stan's victory. Unfortunately, they discover that Ollie wagered their earnings on Stan's defeat. Trivia Unfortunately for us James Finlayson fans, this movie was a three-reel film, and the first reel has been lost. It now only exists through still images. The missing reel occurred on a ship and starred James Finlayson and Tiny Sandford. As Mugsie Long (Walter Long) drags the Bride (Julie Bishop) away from the pool table and out of the frame, the boom mic's shadow briefly appears at the top of the screen before disappearing. When Ollie slams into the kitchen wall, it noticeably moves. The same wall also moves when Mugsie touches it for support. Mugsie chases Stan and Ollie around a long table to retrieve a key. Stan hops onto an end chair and runs along the table with Mugsie in pursuit. As Mugsie reaches the center, Ollie pulls the extension out from his end, causing Mugsie to fall through the gap and break a section of the table. However, when Stan and Ollie push the extensions back in place, trapping Mugsy by the neck, there is no visible damage to the table or broken pieces in a sidelong shot. After Mugsie Long is struck by the weighted glove on Stan's right hand, it falls to the boxing ring floor along with Long. In the next scene, Stan is wearing both gloves as the weighted glove hits the referee. As Stan removes his robe before the fight, his boxing gloves accidentally come off. He quickly puts them back on, but the laces on his left glove hang down, unlaced. In the subsequent shot, his laces are suddenly laced up as he enters the fight. Dick Gilbert, who acts as Walter Long's assistant during the boxing sequences, was a real-life boxer. The $50 that Stan and Ollie were supposed to earn from the fight is equivalent to more than $1000 in 2022. References I highly recommend this excellent write-up on the movie: https://beauchumps.wordpress.com/any-old-port/

"Beau Hunks" is a 1931 American pre-Code comedy film directed by James W. Horne and produced by Hal Roach. It stars the legendary comedy duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, popularly known as Laurel and Hardy. The film is an adaptation of the 1927 novel "Beau Geste" by P.C. Wren and serves as a parody of the various adaptations of the novel, particularly the 1931 film "Beau Geste." The plot revolves around the duo joining the French Foreign Legion to forget a woman, only to discover that she has numerous identical sisters. The film starts with Oliver Hardy heartbroken over a woman named Jeanie-Weenie, who has left him for another man. In an attempt to forget her, Hardy and his best friend, Stan Laurel, decide to join the French Foreign Legion. Once enlisted, they are sent to a remote desert outpost under the command of the strict Sergeant Hippo, who relentlessly drills them. Throughout the film, Laurel and Hardy's comedic mishaps and inability to follow orders lead to humorous misadventures and near-disasters. "Beau Hunks" has been well-received by both audiences and critics. The film showcases Laurel and Hardy's impeccable comedic timing and ability to create laughter out of even the most ordinary situations. Additionally, the film effectively parodies the romanticized notion of the French Foreign Legion often portrayed in literature and film, providing a lighter, more humorous perspective on the military organization. The film remains a classic example of early 20th-century comedy and is a testament to the lasting impact of Laurel and Hardy's humor on the genre. Trivia: Initially intended to be a two-reeler, producer Hal Roach expanded the comedy in this film, ultimately financing it at twice its proposed length. The title "Beau Hunks" is a play on the term "Bohunk," which combined "Bohemian" and "Hungarian" and was a pejorative term for a person, typically male, at the time. The title also references the 1924 novel "Beau Geste," which was adapted into a film in 1926. The film's director, James W. Horne, appears as the chief of the Riff Raff under the pseudonym Abul Kasim K'Horne. The film's credits humorously list an excessive number of supporting cast members, including "3897 Arabs, 1921 Riffians, and four native Swede guides." Jean Harlow, who had played minor roles in three previous Laurel and Hardy films, agreed to let the filmmakers use her photo as Jeannie Weenie, who drives the film's plot without physically appearing. Marvin Hatley, the composer and head of Hal Roach's music department, filled out the film's ranks of the "ruffians." He also wrote "The Cuckoo Song," which became Laurel and Hardy's theme. Though Roach intended this four-reeler to compete with double features in theaters, it was too short for shorts and features, making it the only Laurel and Hardy comedy produced at this length. At 37 minutes, it is their most extended "short." Interestingly, the barracks set was reused for the 1935 film "Bonnie Scotland," Hal Roach later named this film his favorite of all he had made when he appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1992 at the age of 100.

🎩✨ Cheerio! Like & Subscribe for more Wodehousian gems! 🔔📚 "Cocktail Time" is a comic novel written by P. G. Wodehouse, first published in the United Kingdom on July 20, 1958, by Herbert Jenkins and in the United States on October 24, 1958, by Simon & Schuster, Inc. The novel features one of Wodehouse's most famous recurring characters, the amiable and bumbling Earl of Ickenham, better known as Uncle Fred. As with many of Wodehouse's novels, the story is set in the fictional world of the British upper class, with its unique blend of comedy, farce, and romance. The story revolves around the Earl of Ickenham, who helps his friend Johnny write a novel called "Cocktail Time" under a pseudonym. The novel becomes a massive success, but the author's true identity remains a closely guarded secret. However, when the book's scandalous content leads to pressure from a moralistic MP, Lord Tilbury, the Earl of Ickenham must use his wit and cunning to maintain the secret while also dealing with several romantic entanglements and misadventures. In "Cocktail Time," Wodehouse weaves a hilarious and engaging story with a colorful cast of characters, including the eccentric Lord Ickenham, the ambitious Lord Tilbury, and the lovable and lovable and exasperated Johnny. The novel is a delightful example of Wodehouse's signature wit, wordplay, and expertly crafted plot, making it an enjoyable read for fans of British humor and classic literature.

"Go West" is a 1925 American silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. In the film, Keaton plays the role of Friendless, a down-on-his-luck young man who decides to head west for a better life. Upon arriving in Arizona, he works as a ranch hand and becomes attached to a cow named Brown Eyes. As Friendless struggles to adapt to life on the ranch, he finds himself in a series of humorous situations, such as attempting to milk a bull and getting caught in a stampede. Ultimately, Friendless becomes a hero by saving Brown Eyes from the slaughterhouse and helping the ranch owner, the Girl (played by Kathleen Myers), recover stolen money. "Go West" is remembered for its blend of slapstick humor, inventive visual gags, and Keaton's remarkable ability to perform daring stunts. The film showcases his talent for physical comedy as he portrays a hapless city slicker attempting to navigate life's challenges on a ranch. Though it may not have garnered the same level of critical acclaim as some of Keaton's other films, "Go West" remains a noteworthy entry in his filmography, with its themes of perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness resonating with audiences nearly a century later.

"Seven Chances" is a 1925 American silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film is based on the play of the same name by Roi Cooper Megrue. The story revolves around James Shannon (played by Keaton), a businessman who discovers he will inherit $7 million from his grandfather's will if he gets married by 7 p.m. on his 27th birthday, which happens to be the same day he learns about the inheritance. With the help of his business partner, Billy Meekin (played by T. Roy Barnes), James embarks on a frantic search for a bride, proposing to multiple women with varying degrees of success. As the deadline looms, James is pursued by hundreds of prospective brides in a wild chase sequence. "Seven Chances" showcases Keaton's talent for physical comedy, inventive visual gags, and daring stunts, particularly the famous rockslide scene, where he narrowly avoids being crushed by massive boulders. While the film did not receive universal praise upon its initial release, it has since gained recognition as a classic of the silent comedy era. The movie's themes of love, commitment, and the pursuit of happiness, combined with Keaton's trademark deadpan style and skillful execution of stunts, contribute to its enduring appeal and place in film history.

"A Murder Is Announced" is a detective fiction novel by the renowned British author Agatha Christie, first published in 1950. It features the beloved character Miss Marple, an elderly amateur detective with a talent for solving mysteries. The story revolves around a peculiar advertisement in the local newspaper of the small English village of Chipping Cleghorn, which announces a murder will occur at Little Paddocks, the home of Letitia Blacklock, at a specific date and time. The villagers, curious about the announcement, gather at Little Paddocks to witness what they believe is a harmless game or prank, only to find themselves amid an actual murder. When the lights go out, and a man is found shot dead, the police are called to investigate. However, Miss Marple's keen observational skills, understanding of human nature, and ability to connect the dots ultimately lead to the killer's unmasking. Christie weaves a complex plot throughout the novel with numerous twists and turns, exploring themes of greed, deception, and hidden identities.

"The Love Nest" is a 1923 American short silent comedy film written and directed by Buster Keaton, who also stars in the lead role. The film follows the story of Buster (played by Keaton), a man who, after a series of failed romances, decides to buy a small boat and name it "The Love Nest." Hoping to find peace and tranquility, he sets sail. Still, he inadvertently drifts into the territory of a much larger vessel commanded by a stern and cruel captain known as "The Floating Hospital" (played by Joe Roberts). Buster becomes involved in a series of humorous situations as he tries to adapt to life on the larger ship. Ultimately, he saves the captain's life, earning his respect and acceptance. While "The Love Nest" may not be as well-known as some of Keaton's other films, it remains a noteworthy entry in his filmography. The movie showcases his talent for physical comedy, inventive visual gags, and daring stunts, all while exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and the search for happiness. Its unique maritime setting and Keaton's engaging performance as an unfortunate yet resourceful sailor contribute to the film's enduring charm and appeal.

"College" is a 1927 American silent comedy film directed by James W. Horne and starring Buster Keaton, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Carl Harbaugh. The film follows the story of Ronald (played by Keaton), a high school graduate and bookworm who enrolls in Clayton College to win the affection of his sweetheart, Mary (played by Anne Cornwall). Despite his disdain for sports, Ronald attempts to become an athlete to impress Mary, who is attracted to athletes. Throughout the film, Ronald tries his hand at various sports, including baseball, track and field, and rowing, all with comedic results. He eventually finds success and wins Mary's heart by participating in a pivotal rowing race. Though "College" did not achieve the same critical acclaim as some of Keaton's other films, it remains a noteworthy entry in his filmography. The movie showcases Keaton's physical comedy skills as he portrays a bumbling yet determined young man trying to prove himself in the world of sports. The film's theme of self-improvement and the pursuit of love resonates with audiences, and its slapstick humor, clever visual gags, and daring stunts contribute to its lasting appeal.

"Battling Butler" is a 1926 American silent comedy film directed by Buster Keaton, who also stars in the lead role. The film is based on the stage play of the same name by Walter L. Rosemont and Ballard MacDonald. The plot follows the story of Alfred Butler (played by Keaton), a wealthy and pampered young man sent by his father to a mountain retreat to toughen up. In a case of mistaken identity, Alfred is believed to be the famous boxer "Battling" Butler (played by Francis McDonald). To impress the woman he loves, a mountain girl named Sally (played by Sally O'Neil), Alfred maintains the charade and eventually faces the real "Battling" Butler in a boxing match. Though "Battling Butler" did not initially receive the same critical acclaim as some of Keaton's other works, it has since been recognized as a significant entry in his filmography. The film showcases Keaton's talent for physical comedy, impressive stunts, and his ability to portray a character that transforms from a soft and sheltered man to a determined and courageous individual. The movie's blend of humor, romance, and action, combined with Keaton's iconic deadpan style, continues to delight audiences and contributes to its enduring appeal.

"A Caribbean Mystery" is a detective fiction novel by British author Agatha Christie, first published in 1964. The story features Christie's famous detective, Miss Marple, who is on vacation at the luxurious Golden Palm resort on the fictional Caribbean island of St. Honoré. During her stay, she becomes involved in a series of murders and uses her keen observational skills and knowledge of human nature to solve the crimes. When another elderly guest, Major Palgrave, suddenly dies after claiming to have a photograph of a murderer, Miss Marple's suspicions are aroused. As more guests are killed, she works alongside the local police and her friend, Mr. Rafiel, to uncover the truth behind the murders. The novel is celebrated for its lush setting, complex plot, and enduring charm of Miss Marple, as she unravels the mystery with her characteristic wit and intelligence.

The Playhouse, a 1921 silent comedy film, stars Buster Keaton, who also directed and co-wrote the movie with Eddie Cline. The film showcases Keaton's character navigating through a series of dreamlike vignettes, beginning with an opening sequence in which he plays every role in a theater production, from the actors and the audience to the orchestra members. The remainder of the film follows Keaton's character as he gets involved in various comedic situations, including a romantic pursuit and a case of mistaken identity. Featuring Keaton's signature physical comedy and clever visual gags, The Playhouse entertains audiences with memorable scenes, such as the iconic "one-man show" opening and Keaton's hilarious interactions with a group of trained monkeys. As a classic silent film, it highlights Buster Keaton's remarkable talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in filmmaking.

"Sherlock Jr." is a 1924 American silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film tells the story of a young projectionist, played by Keaton, who aspires to become a detective. However, when he is framed for stealing his girlfriend's father's pocket watch, he dreams of solving the case as Sherlock Jr., the world's greatest detective. The film is notable for its innovative use of special effects, particularly during the dream sequence, where Keaton's character enters the film within the film, seamlessly transitioning from his role as a projectionist to that of a fictional detective. This surreal and groundbreaking sequence showcases Keaton's skill in combining physical comedy with visual trickery. "Sherlock Jr." was not a major commercial success upon its initial release but has since been recognized as one of Keaton's most significant and influential films. It has been praised for its inventive storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, and Keaton's daring stunts and physical comedy. In 1991, the Library of Congress selected the film for preservation in the United States National Film Registry as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." In addition, its innovative techniques and visual gags continue to inspire filmmakers today, solidifying its place as a classic of the silent film era.

"Three Ages" is a 1923 American silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film is structured as a parody of D.W. Griffith's 1916 epic "Intolerance," presenting three parallel stories set in different historical periods: the Stone Age, Ancient Rome, and the modern Roaring Twenties. In each segment, Keaton's character competes with a rival (played by Wallace Beery) for a woman's affection (played by Margaret Leahy). Despite the different settings, each story follows a similar narrative. Keaton's character uses his wit and physical prowess to overcome obstacles and win the heart of the woman he loves. "Three Ages" was Keaton's first feature-length film as a director, showcasing his talent for physical comedy, inventive visual gags, and daring stunts. The film's unique structure allows Keaton to explore various historical settings while maintaining a cohesive narrative that revolves around themes of love, rivalry, and perseverance. Although it may not have achieved the same level of critical acclaim as some of his later films, "Three Ages" remains an essential entry in Keaton's filmography, demonstrating his early ambition as a filmmaker and his skill in blending humor and romance across diverse settings.

The Paleface is a 1922 American silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton alongside co-star Virginia Fox. The film's plot centers around Keaton's character as he tries to rescue a woman from a Native American tribe. The film is notable for its creative use of visual gags and physical comedy, such as the famous scene in which Keaton plays a human crane to move heavy objects. Throughout the film, Keaton's character finds himself in a series of humorous situations as he attempts to escape from the tribe and save the woman. Like many of Keaton's films, The Paleface features his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. The film has become a classic of the silent film era, known for its memorable scenes, such as the sequence in which Keaton climbs a tree to escape from the tribe. The Paleface remains a beloved piece of cinematic history and serves as a testament to Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in cinema.

The Frozen North is a 1922 silent comedy film starring and directed by Buster Keaton. The film's plot centers around Keaton's character, a lone prospector who finds himself in a series of hilarious situations in the frozen wilderness of Alaska. Throughout the film, Keaton encounters eccentric characters, including a local criminal and a love interest who becomes embroiled in a complicated love triangle. Like many of Keaton's films, The Frozen North showcases his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. The film is notable for its use of ironic juxtapositions, such as the character's use of a heavy safe as a boat to cross a river and multiple-reel trick photography to create the illusion of multiple Keatons onscreen. The Frozen North has become a beloved classic of the silent film era and serves as a testament to Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in cinema history.

Day Dreams is a 1922 silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film features Keaton as a lazy janitor who spends most of his time daydreaming about his ideal life. However, he is fired and forced to find work elsewhere when he falls asleep on the job. Throughout the film, Keaton's character encounters a series of humorous situations as he struggles to adjust to his new job, including one memorable scene in which he tries to operate a street sweeper. As with many of Keaton's films, Day Dreams features his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. The film's humor and charm have made it a beloved classic of the silent film era, showcasing Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in cinema. Despite being one of Keaton's lesser-known works, Day Dreams continues to entertain audiences today with its timeless humor and relatable storyline.

My Wife's Relations is a 1922 silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The story revolves around Keaton's character as he marries his sweetheart but soon finds himself dealing with the challenges that come with her six intimidating and overbearing brothers. Throughout the film, Keaton's character navigates through a series of comedic situations as he tries to please his new in-laws and keep his marriage intact. Like many of Keaton's films, My Wife's Relations features his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. One particularly memorable scene shows Keaton's character clinging to the outside of a building, desperately trying to escape his in-laws. The film's humor and charm have made it a beloved classic of the silent film era, and it remains a testament to Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in cinema.

"At Bertram's Hotel" is a detective fiction novel by renowned British author Agatha Christie, first published in 1965. The book features her famous detective, Miss Marple, who unravels a complex web of crime and deception in a classic London hotel. Set in the mid-20th century, the narrative delves into themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the dark underbelly of seemingly idyllic settings. The story takes place at Bertram's Hotel, an elegant and traditional London establishment that has managed to preserve its Edwardian atmosphere. Miss Marple, an elderly amateur sleuth, arrives at the hotel for a vacation and soon becomes intrigued by the hotel's anachronistic charm. As Miss Marple uncovers a series of strange coincidences and mysterious events, she suspects the hotel's respectable façade hides a darker truth.

The Electric House is a 1922 silent comedy film directed by and starring Buster Keaton. The film follows Keaton's character as he is mistaken for an electrician and accidentally awarded a contract to wire a wealthy man's mansion with an elaborate system of modern conveniences. Throughout the film, Keaton's character encounters a series of hilarious situations as he attempts to navigate the complex electrical systems he has installed, including one memorable scene in which he is accidentally shocked and gains the ability to conduct electricity. Like many of Keaton's films, The Electric House showcases his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. The film features several memorable scenes, such as the electrified dinner party and Keaton's use of a giant electrical magnet to carry heavy objects. The Electric House remains a beloved classic of the silent film era and is a testament to Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in cinema history.

The Blacksmith is a 1922 silent comedy film starring and directed by Buster Keaton. The story follows Keaton's character, a blacksmith who finds himself in a series of comedic situations after a horse ruins a car left in his care. Throughout the film, Keaton's character attempts to repair the car, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures, including a scene in which he accidentally welds his car keys to the vehicle. Like many of Keaton's films, The Blacksmith showcases his signature physical comedy and innovative visual gags. The film has become a classic of the silent film era, known for its memorable scenes, such as the "human conveyor belt" sequence and the chaotic automobile chase. The Blacksmith remains a beloved piece of cinematic history, and it serves as a testament to Buster Keaton's exceptional talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in filmmaking.

"The Mating Season" is a novel written by British humorist P.G. Wodehouse, first published in the United States in October 1949 and in the United Kingdom in November of the same year. The story is set in the fictional village of Deverill Hall, Hampshire, and revolves around Bertie Wooster and his valet, Jeeves. The narrative explores the complications and misunderstandings arising from romantic entanglements as various characters try to navigate their love lives and familial obligations. The novel's plot centers on Bertie Wooster's attempts to resolve the romantic problems of his friends and acquaintances, including his cousin Gussie Fink-Nottle, who is engaged to Madeline Bassett. Throughout the story, Bertie becomes embroiled in a series of misadventures and mistaken identities, leading to further complications. Throughout the narrative, Bertie relies on Jeeves's wit and resourcefulness to untangle the complex web of relationships and ultimately save the day.

The Goat, a 1921 silent comedy film, stars Buster Keaton as the protagonist, who also directed and co-wrote the movie with Malcolm St. Clair. The plot follows Keaton's character, an unemployed man, who mistakenly becomes the target of a city-wide police hunt after being mistaken for a notorious criminal. Amidst the chaos, Keaton's character falls in love with the daughter of the police chief, leading to a series of comical misadventures as he attempts to clear his name. Featuring Keaton's signature physical comedy and clever visual gags, The Goat entertains audiences with memorable scenes such as the thrilling rooftop chase sequence and Keaton's creative escape tactics. This silent film classic has become a beloved piece of cinema history, showcasing Buster Keaton's remarkable talent as an actor, director, and influential figure in filmmaking.

The Boat, a 1921 silent comedy film, stars Buster Keaton, who also directed and co-wrote the film alongside Edward F. Cline. In the movie, Keaton plays a hapless inventor who constructs an unsinkable boat named "Damfino" and embarks on a sea voyage with his family. Unfortunately, the boat is anything but unsinkable, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures as the family struggles to stay afloat and navigate back to shore. Showcasing Keaton's distinctive physical comedy and innovative visual gags, The Boat entertains audiences with memorable scenes, such as the chaotic launching of "Damfino" and the family's valiant efforts to endure the challenges at sea. Over the years, this silent film classic has earned its place in cinema history as a testament to Buster Keaton's remarkable abilities as an actor, director, and influential figure in filmmaking.

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