Watch Now or Never
- Passed
- 1921
- 39 min
-
6.7 (894)
Now or Never is a 1921 American silent comedy film directed by Hal Roach and starring Harold Lloyd, Mildred Davis, and Anna Mae Bilson. The film is about a young man named Harold who wants to impress his girlfriend Mildred by proposing to her. However, he gets distracted by his job as a salesperson at a sporting goods store, where he tries out various equipment, causing chaos and mayhem.
Harold's attempts to propose to Mildred are constantly thwarted by various obstacles, including a rival suitor (played by Roy Brooks), who is also trying to win Mildred's affections. Harold is determined to win her over, and he devises a plan to impress her by performing a daring stunt on a high wire. However, things don't go as planned, and he finds himself hanging precariously over a busy street.
The film is notable for its innovative use of visual gags and physical comedy. Harold Lloyd was known for performing dangerous stunts in his films, and this movie is no exception. The high-wire sequence is a classic example of his daredevil approach to comedy, and it's still thrilling to watch today.
Another highlight of the film is the chemistry between Harold Lloyd and Mildred Davis. The two actors were married in real life, and their on-screen romance is palpable. Anna Mae Bilson also delivers a hilarious performance as the store's receptionist, who is constantly flustered by Harold's antics.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is a chase sequence through the streets of Los Angeles. Harold is pursued by an angry mob after he accidentally starts a fire, and he tries to escape by jumping over rooftops and sliding down rain gutters. The scene is both funny and suspenseful, and it's a testament to Lloyd's physical agility.
Another standout sequence is the store display room scene, where Harold demonstrates various sporting goods, resulting in a series of mishaps and mishandles. The prop comedy in this scene is expertly executed and shows off Harold's comic timing to great effect.
Overall, Now or Never is a classic silent comedy that showcases Harold Lloyd's unique talents as a physical comedian and daredevil performer. The film is a testament to his enduring popularity and influence on comedy filmmaking. Anyone who appreciates classic cinema and physical comedy will enjoy this timeless gem.