"Requisitor" - another short film Charlie Chaplin, filmed during his cooperation with the studio Keystone. Having started his professional career in film as a staff actor, Chaplin managed to get permission from Mac Sennet to make films himself. So far, it has not been possible to identify your style. And fundamentally nothing particularly the first films of Charlie did not differ from those shot by other directors of the studio.
This time, Chaplin played a simple theatrical prop who does all the dirty work. However, the bullying character does not allow you to turn the work of Charlie’s character into a routine. And, entering into various skirmishes (successfully, at the same time, taking care of the girls), he essentially disrupts the concert for the audience (one of which was played by Mac Sennet himself).
As befits “comedy positions” there will be a lot of buffoonery, slaps (even women will get kicks), and the final brawl with the use of a hose with water. At the same time, Chaplin tried to mock the typical behind-the-scenes theater through such humor. Because all the actions of a mischievous prop lead to the exposure of the “strong man” by the public (Jess Dandy). It seems that he, as a former music hall artist, is not satisfied with something in the behind-the-scenes life of employees, but he can do nothing but make fun of it in his film. That’s why it’s so important.
If art requires sacrifice, then for the sake of a funny comedy, Chaplin made everyone in this picture suffer from his character.
6 out of 10