Tell It to the Marines 1918
Dive into the whimsical world of *Tell It to the Marines (1918)*, a silent-era comedy that blends wartime fantasy with childhood mischief. Directed by the prolific Arvid E.
Director: Arvid E. Gillstrom
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tell It to the Marines (1918) about?
The film centers on two mischievous sisters whose prank-filled day leads to a surreal dream. In their imagination, mechanical doll armies wage war, with the Allies triumphing over the Germans in a playful take on World War I. It's a short, whimsical escape into childhood fantasy and wartime satire.
Who directed Tell It to the Marines?
The film was directed by Arvid E. Gillstrom, a filmmaker known for his work in silent-era comedies and shorts during the early 20th century.
Who stars in Tell It to the Marines?
The main cast includes Jane Lee, Katherine Lee, Charles Slattery, and Edward Bagley, who bring the story to life with their comedic and dramatic performances.
Is Tell It to the Marines (1918) worth watching?
While *Tell It to the Marines* is a lesser-known silent comedy, its unique blend of wartime fantasy and childhood mischief makes it a curious watch. As a silent-era short with no IMDb rating, it's best appreciated for its historical charm and Gillstrom's direction, though modern audiences may find its pacing and themes quaint.
How long is Tell It to the Marines?
The runtime of *Tell It to the Marines* is 50 minutes.
About Tell It to the Marines (1918) — A Silly Silent-Era Comedy with a Dreamlike War Fantasy
Dive into the whimsical world of *Tell It to the Marines (1918)*, a silent-era comedy that blends wartime fantasy with childhood mischief. Directed by the prolific Arvid E. Gillstrom, this 50-minute short film follows sisters Jane and Katherine Williams, whose playful antics after a day of pranks on their father's staff lead to a surreal dream sequence. In Jane's imagination, mechanical doll armies clash in a miniature World War I, with the Allied forces led by the virtuous Trak triumphing over the villainous Trik and his German troops. The film's lighthearted tone contrasts sharply with the gravity of its historical backdrop, creating a charming, if unconventional, ode to wartime propaganda of the era.
Gillstrom's direction infuses the story with a playful innocence, using miniature battles to satirize the conflicts raging across Europe. The film's visual gags and dreamlike narrative make it a fascinating relic of early cinema, offering a glimpse into how wartime themes were distilled for mass entertainment. With its blend of humor, fantasy, and historical context, *Tell It to the Marines* remains a curious artifact for silent film enthusiasts and historians alike.