A Clever Dummy Poster

A Clever Dummy 1917

★ 5.03 votes19 min📅 1917-07-15

Step into the whimsical world of silent-era comedy with *A Clever Dummy (1917)*, directed by the inventive Herman C. Raymaker.

Director: Herman C. Raymaker

Cast

Ben Turpin
Ben Turpin
A Romantic Janitor
Chester Conklin
Chester Conklin
A Playful Property Man
Wallace Beery
Wallace Beery
Patrick Cohen - a Vaudeville Manager
Juanita Hansen
Juanita Hansen
A Leading Lady
Claire Anderson
Claire Anderson
Tinker's Daughter - An Object of Affection
James Donnelly
Samuel Tinker - Her Inventive Father
James Delano
Clarence - His Interested Partner
Joseph Belmont
Joseph Belmont
Bald Husband in Audience
Robert Milliken
Master of Ceremonies
Marvel Rea
Marvel Rea
Minor Role

Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Clever Dummy (1917) about?

*A Clever Dummy* follows an inventor and his assistant who build a robot modeled after their simple-minded janitor, only to face relentless interference from others eager to profit from the contraption. The short unfolds as a series of misunderstandings and slapstick mishaps, culminating in uproarious chaos.

Who directed A Clever Dummy?

The film was directed by Herman C. Raymaker, a notable figure in early silent comedy known for his inventive and humorous approach to storytelling.

Who stars in A Clever Dummy?

The cast includes silent comedy legends Ben Turpin, Chester Conklin, and Wallace Beery, alongside Juanita Hansen and Claire Anderson, who drive the film's comedic energy.

Is A Clever Dummy (1917) worth watching?

While it's a short at just 19 minutes, *A Clever Dummy* offers a delightful snapshot of silent-era comedy with a clever premise and solid performances. Its historical charm and humor make it a worthwhile watch for fans of vintage cinema, even if it's light on depth.

How long is A Clever Dummy?

The film runs for 19 minutes, making it a quick but entertaining burst of classic comedy.

About A Clever Dummy (1917) — Silent Comedy Classic with a Mechanical Mayhem

Step into the whimsical world of silent-era comedy with *A Clever Dummy (1917)*, directed by the inventive Herman C. Raymaker. This 19-minute short follows two scheming partners—an eccentric inventor and his bumbling assistant—as they craft a mechanical robot designed to resemble their dim-witted janitor. What starts as a brilliant invention quickly spirals into chaos when opportunists and meddlers descend, each trying to exploit the automaton for personal gain. Raymaker's playful direction blends slapstick humor with the era's signature charm, making this a delightful relic of early cinema.

Starring silent comedy legends Ben Turpin, Chester Conklin, and Wallace Beery, *A Clever Dummy* thrives on physical comedy and absurdity, embodying the carefree spirit of its time. The film's vibrant chaos and clever premise offer a snapshot of 1910s entertainment, where innovation met mischief on screen. Whether you're a fan of silent comedies or just curious about early filmmaking magic, this short promises laughs and a nostalgic glimpse into cinema's golden age.