SATIRES (1929) John T. Murray, Vivien Oakland & Ernie Young | Comedy, Short | Nostalgic Flick

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Satire (1929) is a dark comedy that critiques society, politics, and human nature through a series of absurd and ironic sketches. The film, using a mix of sharp humor and visual gags, satirizes various aspects of contemporary life, from social conventions to political ideologies. Its unconventional structure and bold commentary made it a pioneering work in early 20th-century cinema.

Synopsis:

Mr. Young introduces the sketch in an appropriately melodramatic fashion, wearing an opera cape and a glowering expression. He recites a bit of doggerel about the current popularity of mystery plays (“full of thrills and sighing moans, slamming doors and ringing phones”) and then slinks away. Eerie music, thunder, and sinister lighting set the scene. Vivien enters, frightened, and then John, ditto. They tiptoe about, and exchange ridiculous quips about how terrible it all is. Young staggers in, groaning, and slumps into a chair. Vivien screams, and dashes away. When John bumps into the corpse and excuses himself, the corpse comes to life long enough to say “That’s all right” before falling dead again.

Cast & Crew:

John T. Murray
Vivien Oakland
Ernie Young

Directed by: Murray Roth