What a Clue Will Do 1917
In this silent-era comedy short from 1917, bumbling detective Potts and his eager young pupil Pan race against the clock to rescue a kidnapped child in a case that turns every clue upside down.
Director: Louis Chaudet
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is What a Clue Will Do (1917) about?
This 1917 silent comedy follows amateur detectives Potts and Pan as they race to find a kidnapped child, only to fixate on a cub reporter as the culprit. With a faithful hound in tow, their investigation spirals into misunderstandings and misadventures in a bustling city setting.
Who directed What a Clue Will Do?
The film was directed by Louis Chaudet, a prolific silent-era filmmaker known for crafting fast-paced, comedic shorts.
Who stars in What a Clue Will Do?
The cast includes Lee Moran and Eddie Lyons as the bumbling detectives, along with Edith Roberts, Fred Gamble, Kewpie Morgan, and Elsie Cort in supporting roles.
Is What a Clue Will Do (1917) worth watching?
If you enjoy vintage slapstick, early silent film craft, and lighthearted mysteries, this short is a delightful 11-minute escape. While not groundbreaking, its charm lies in its energetic pacing and the comedic timing of its leads, making it a fun slice of cinema history.
How long is What a Clue Will Do?
The runtime is 11 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About What a Clue Will Do (1917) — Silent Comedy Short with Bumbling Detectives and a Twist
In this silent-era comedy short from 1917, bumbling detective Potts and his eager young pupil Pan race against the clock to rescue a kidnapped child in a case that turns every clue upside down. Accompanied by a tenacious hound in tow, the mismatched duo follows a trail of breadcrumbs that leads to a cub reporter—mistaken for the kidnapper—inside a bustling saloon. With its quick pacing and slapstick charm, this vintage gem delivers laughs through miscommunication, mistaken identity, and the sheer absurdity of early detective work.
What a Clue Will Do (1917) blends physical comedy with the chaotic energy of early filmmaking, capturing a time when storytelling relied on visual wit and expressive performances over dialogue. Directed by Louis Chaudet and packed with the charisma of Lee Moran and Eddie Lyons, this 11-minute short packs a surprising narrative punch, balancing heartfelt urgency with goofy antics as the unlikely heroes chase their mistaken suspect through a lively urban landscape.