Out of Luck (1923)

Out of Luck Poster

Believing he has committed murder, Sam Pertune, a simple westerner, enlists in the Navy, then cannot get released when he learns that his "victim" is alive.

General Overview
"Out of Luck" is a traditional comic silent movie launched in 1923, directed by Edward F. Cline, and co-written by Cline and Buster Keaton. The movie stars renowned figures of the quiet era-- Buster Keaton and Virginia Fox. The movie falls under the comedy category with a running time of 18 minutes.

The Plot
Keaton plays an awkward but big-hearted boy living in a village. The plot revolves around Keaton's attempts to impress and win the heart of his precious (played by Fox)-- the town's beauty. The story starts when a housefly arrive at a dartboard simply as Keaton is tossing a dart-- and he amazingly strikes the bullseye. Motivated by this stroke of 'luck', Keaton decides to purchase a lottery game ticket, hoping that his lucky streak will continue.

Keaton's Comedic Escapades and Romance
His daring journey in trying to cash his lottery ticket becomes the heart of the film. The movie title is greatly ironic, as in spite of Keaton's initial lucky break, he battles with a series of regrettable and comedic events. Each time he tries to money in his winning lottery ticket, he stumbles upon numerous skirmishes that avoid him from accomplishing his goal. He comes to grips with petty thieves, aggressive pet dogs, and even a wall of bees - causing numerous slapstick comedic moments.

In the midst of these adventures, he continues his pursuit to impress Fox. Nevertheless, things go awry as his 'unlucky' scenarios make him appear less reliable. Yet, the lovable and amusing character of Keaton keeps the audience rooting for him, in spite of the odds.

Climactic Finale and Conclusion
The movie's climax occurs when a regional gang discovers Keaton's winning ticket and conspires to take it. A chase sequence full of happy physical comedy and innovative stunts unfolds. The bracing, intricate chase scene is a testament to Keaton's physicality and comedic timing.

In the end, Keaton successfully manages to secure his ticket and cash it, coming out triumphant both in his financial mission and love conquest. The film ends on a confident note, with Keaton finally getting luck in both his ventures - winning the lottery game and the heart of his cherished.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Despite its brief running time, "Out of Luck" is understood for its captivating storyline, Keaton's exceptional comical execution, and high-energy slapstick humor. The creative stunts, unexpected twists and turns, and a perfect fusion of love and funny make it an entertaining watch. The well-crafted representation of the 'unlucky' protagonist is capitivating, amusing and engrossing.

"Out of Luck" stands as a considerable early operate in the profession of Keaton, one of the silent period's biggest comedic stars. It showcases his physical prowess and his indisputable comical abilities, together with a flair for physical funny and a gift for evocative storytelling. Keaton's exceptional performance in "Out of Luck" continues to affect and inspire lots of modern comics and filmmakers, showing the movie's enduring impact nearly a century after its initial release.

Top Cast

  • Hoot Gibson (small)
    Hoot Gibson
    Sam Pertune
  • Laura La Plante (small)
    Laura La Plante
    Mae Day
  • Howard Truesdale (small)
    Howard Truesdale
    Ezra Day
  • Elinor Hancock
    Aunt Edith Bristol
  • DeWitt Jennings (small)
    DeWitt Jennings
    Capt. Bristol
  • Freeman Wood (small)
    Freeman Wood
    Cyril La Mount
  • Jay Morley (small)
    Jay Morley
    Boggs
  • Kansas Moehring (small)
    Kansas Moehring
    'Kid' Hogan
  • John Judd
    'Pig' Hurley