His Favorite Pastime (1914)

Introduction
"His Favorite Pastime" is a 1914 American-made quiet funny film starring the renowned Charlie Chaplin. This short movie was Chaplin's 16th look on screen and showcases his trademark comical design that ended up being revolutionary in the silent films era. Chaplin's self-directed film is the second out of 35 short movies he produced with Keystone Studios.

Plot Summary
"His Favorite Pastime" depicts Chaplin's constant pursuit of the First National Actress, Peggy Pearce, while contending with her real-life husband, studio executive Mack Sennett. The film primarily revolves around Chaplin's character, an intoxicated who causes mayhem in a bar and later, at a classy rural residence.

Main Characters
Charlie Chaplin plays the main character, a drunken male who loves mischieve and mayhem. Peggy Pearce stars as a stylish girl, the pursued interest of the inebriated man. Mack Swain is the significant partner who is vigilant over his other half and opposes Chaplain's character.

Key Scenes
In the opening scenes, Chaplin's character is seen strolling inside a bar, bothering other customers, chasing ladies and clashing with the barman. Regardless of numerous efforts to get him out of the bar, he handles to remain, create chaos, and enter brawls. His drunk antics produce an appealing watch, embodying the silent age's funny.

Chaplin, in the future, experiences Pearce's character, and being smitten by her, follows her home, stirring a major confrontation with her spouse, Mack Swain. His mischief continues as he slips into their classy suburban home, triggering a series of comical mishaps.

Ending Scene
The movie culminates in an amusing sequence where Chaplin, after being gone after around the house by an irate Swain, perches on a hanging outside light for support, which paves the way under his weight and lands him in a water trough. Sopping wet and beat, our protagonist loses the battle however wins the comedy sketch.

Funny and Cinematic Style
"His Favorite Pastime", along with Chaplin's other early films, is characterized by its slapstick humor and physical comedy. Chaplin's character's naughty and daring behavior, paired with his interactions with Swain's character, produced an amusing dynamic. Chaplin's imaginative use of everyday items for comedic effect was revolutionary at the time and would later on become part of his signature design.

Crucial Reception
"His Favorite Pastime" was a stepping stone for Chaplin's illustrious career, strengthening his comic brilliance. Despite being over a century old, it remains a work of art of silent movie theater and slapstick funny, and it's revered for the special comic genius that Chaplin brought to the silver screen in his nascent stages.

Conclusion
"His Favorite Pastime" showcases Chaplin's early comedic skill, which contributed in defining his effective career in film history. It stands as a testament to his distinct style and interpretation of the world, bringing laughter to audiences even a century later on. This simple yet impactful film embodies the spirit of silent period funnies, marking the creation of among the biggest icons in movie history - Charlie Chaplin.

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