Anthony Balducci

Eighteen Comedians of Silent Film Anthony Balducci

For decades, hundreds of actors delivered a steady stream of pranks and pratfalls for the amusement of silent film fans. While film historians have focused their attention on the three biggest comedy stars (Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd), numerous comedians of less renown have been unjustly forgotten. But, now, eighteen uniquely talented comedians overlooked for many years finally receive the recognition they deserve. Discussed at length are the methods and skills that made these performers stand out. This includes the subtle expressiveness of Lloyd Hamilton, the goofy acrobatics of Clyde Cook, the playful irreverence of Hank Mann, the wicked brazenness of Billie Ritchie, and the destructive buffoonery of André Deed. Eighteen Comedians of Silent Film is presented as both a loving tribute and a thoughtful analysis of a delightfully special group of artists.