Gentlemen of Nerve (1914)

Gentlemen of Nerve Poster

Mabel and her beau go to an auto race and are joined by Charlie and his friend. As Charlie's friend is attempting to enter the raceway through a hole, the friend gets stuck and a policeman shows up.

Overview
"Gentlemen of Nerve" is a 1914 American silent funny short film directed by Charlie Chaplin. The film is a thirteen-minute-long slapstick comedy produced at Keystone Studios and functions Chaplin himself as its protagonist together with Mabel Normand and Chester Conklin. Significantly, the movie was enhanced by the appearance of 2 historical figures, Betty Pierce and Mack Sennett. Placed in a car racing context, the movie is a comedic reflection on extraordinary events faced by the people at the scene.

Plot Summary
The movie starts with Charlie Chaplin as a viewer in an action-packed automobile race along with his girlfriend, played by Mabel Normand. He disrupts her relaxing vista by developing an annoyance when he attempts to acquire a much better view of the race. The comical scenes begin right here, with Chaplin frequently seen messing around, nabbing binoculars, altering viewer's picket spaces, and developing general chaos that causes continuous laughter.

One of the film's standout sequences includes Charlie pretending to be a deaf-mute to get away an angry partner whose partner's binoculars he had taken. Later, he develops a commotion by taking a police officer's badge, which results in an absurd and event-filled chase.

Character's Performances
As Chaplin's character, we get to see a classic example of his early humorous discussions, where he is less the considerate tramp-figure and more a mischievous, rakish character who appears to take pleasure in the turmoil he produces. Mabel Normand represents Chaplin's sweetheart's role effectively, managing him and coping up with his antics while attempting to take pleasure in the event. Chester Conklin is the police who maintains his gruff expression amidst the chaos trigger by Chaplin.

Guest Appearances
The movie draws much annual interest since it includes two visitors. Mack Sennett was an essential figure in the motion photo industry as a director, called the innovator of slapstick funny in movie. His appearance in the film magnifies its comical quality. The look of Betty Pierce, nevertheless, is typically thought about more attracting. As one of the very first film actresses signed to Keystone Studios, her role just contributed to the appeal of the slapstick funny.

Conclusion
"Gentlemen of Nerve" unfold as a compilation of comic sketches rather than a story with a clear plot, comparable to other Chaplin shorts of this period. Significantly, Chaplin's performance in the film showcases his acrobatic skills and flair for impromptu funny. Likewise, he instills his hallmark mix of humor and slapstick funny throughout the race-watching occasion.

In conclusion, "Gentlemen of Nerve" is a classic testament to Chaplin's dynamic comedic design, emphasizing physical humor and slapstick antics amidst a backdrop of a grand car race. The existence of Mabel Normand, Chester Conklin, Mack Sennett, and Betty Pierce enhances the movie's appeal, making it a distinct entry in the quiet movie and comedy genres.

Top Cast

  • Charlie Chaplin (small)
    Charlie Chaplin
    Mr. Wow-Woe, Track Fanatic
  • Mabel Normand (small)
    Mabel Normand
    Mabel
  • Chester Conklin (small)
    Chester Conklin
    Ambrose, Mabel's friend
  • Mack Swain (small)
    Mack Swain
    Mr. Walrus
  • Phyllis Allen (small)
    Phyllis Allen
    Flirty Woman
  • Edgar Kennedy (small)
    Edgar Kennedy
    Policeman
  • Alice Davenport (small)
    Alice Davenport
    Patron at Outdoor Bar
  • Dan Albert
    Man Selling Drinks / Spectator (uncredited)
  • Helen Carruthers
    Spectator with Checkered Coat (uncredited)
  • Glen Cavender (small)
    Glen Cavender
    Spectator at Entrance / Cop (uncredited)
  • Charley Chase (small)
    Charley Chase
    Spectator at Entrance (uncredited)