Watch Butter Fingers

Butter Fingers is a 1925 silent comedy film directed by Harry Edwards and starring Billy Bevan, Andy Clyde, and Ruth Taylor. The film revolves around the misadventures of a clumsy man named Butterfingers (Billy Bevan) who turns into a hero by serendipity. The story begins with Butterfingers working as a dishwasher at a hotel where he is constantly creating messes and getting into trouble. He has a crush on the hotel's switchboard operator (Ruth Taylor) but is too shy to express his feelings. One day, while cleaning up a room, he stumbles upon a plot by a gang of crooks to rob the hotel's safe. Butterfingers tries to alert the hotel management, but they think he is making up stories. Undeterred, he sets out to catch the robbers by himself.

What follows is a series of hilarious mishaps as Butterfingers bumbles his way in and out of trouble. He accidentally knocks out a policeman, falls off a building, and gets mistaken for the infamous bandit Blackie. Meanwhile, the real Blackie (Andy Clyde) is on the loose, trying to track down Butterfingers and get his identity back. In the end, Butterfingers manages to foil the robbers, save the hotel, and win the heart of the switchboard operator.

Butter Fingers is a typical slapstick comedy of its time, full of pratfalls, sight gags, and exaggerated performances. Billy Bevan, who was known for his ability to play hapless characters, delivers a hilarious performance as Butterfingers. He is a natural comedian who makes even the most mundane actions look funny. Andy Clyde is equally good as the menacing Blackie, bringing a sense of danger to the proceedings. The chemistry between Bevan and Taylor is also charming, with Taylor playing the role of the supportive love interest.

The film's direction by Harry Edwards is spot-on, capturing the zaniness of the story while maintaining a fast pace. The camera work is excellent, with creative angles and tracking shots that add to the comedy. The use of intertitles (the text shown in between scenes to convey dialogue) is also cleverly done, with witty one-liners that enhance the humor. The score, although not original, complements the action well.

What makes Butter Fingers an enduring classic is its ability to evoke laughter even after nearly a century. The humor may be simple, but it is effective because it taps into the universal human experience of being clumsy and making mistakes. Butterfingers is a relatable character who is easy to root for, and his triumph over his adversaries is satisfying. The film is a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to make someone a hero is a stroke of luck and a bit of courage.

In conclusion, Butter Fingers is a must-watch for fans of silent comedies and anyone looking for a good laugh. It is a masterclass in physical comedy, with performances that stand the test of time. Despite its age, the film remains relevant and enjoyable, proving that humor transcends generations.