The Star Boarder 1919
In Larry Semon's zany 1919 crime-comedy *The Star Boarder*, the director and star crafts a breakneck farce about a convict who discovers prison life surprisingly luxurious—so much so that he'd rather scheme his way back in than face freedom.
Director: Larry Semon
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Star Boarder (1919) about?
*The Star Boarder* follows Larry Semon's character, a convict who finds prison life so absurdly comfortable that he goes to extreme lengths to get back inside after his release. His schemes—including a botched robbery and impersonating an escaped prisoner—lead to an even more ridiculous situation: being sentenced to hang. Desperate to escape, he joins a jailbreak with other inmates, leading to a madcap finale.
Who directed The Star Boarder?
Larry Semon directed *The Star Boarder*, showcasing his knack for blending physical comedy with silent-era storytelling.
Who stars in The Star Boarder?
The film stars Larry Semon, Lucille Carlisle as his love interest, and William Hauber among the supporting cast in this silent comedy.
Is The Star Boarder (1919) worth watching?
While *The Star Boarder* isn't groundbreaking by modern standards, its 20-minute runtime and nonstop slapstick make it a fun time capsule of early silent comedy. Fans of Larry Semon's work or vintage farces will appreciate its energetic chaos and historical charm.
How long is The Star Boarder?
The Star Boarder runs for 20 minutes.
About The Star Boarder (1919) — Larry Semon's Silly Silent-Era Jailbreak Comedy
In Larry Semon's zany 1919 crime-comedy *The Star Boarder*, the director and star crafts a breakneck farce about a convict who discovers prison life surprisingly luxurious—so much so that he'd rather scheme his way back in than face freedom. When Larry's sentence ends, he's unceremoniously tossed out, only to embark on a series of increasingly absurd attempts to return, from a clumsy stickup to impersonating an escaped inmate. His plan backfires spectacularly when he's mistaken for a condemned man, leaving him desperate to orchestrate a chaotic jailbreak with his fellow prisoners. Packed with slapstick gags, visual wit, and Semon's signature physical comedy, the film blends the gritty aesthetics of early 20th-century penal systems with the boundless optimism of silent-era escapism.
The humor hinges on Larry's relentless inventiveness and the film's playful subversion of expectations—imprisonment as a cozy, if chaotic, lifestyle choice, and freedom as the real trap. With a tight 20-minute runtime, *The Star Boarder* delivers nonstop energy, making it a standout entry in Semon's oeuvre and a charming artifact of early comedy's golden age.