The Panic Is On 1931
"The Panic Is On (1931)" delivers a sharp, Depression-era comedy directed by James Parrott, a master of slapstick timing. Star Charley Chase plays a lovestruck dreamer whose romantic ambitions clash with the harsh realities of 1930s financial despair.
Director: James Parrott
Cast
Charley Chase
Charley Chase
Virginia Whiting
Miss Morgan
Harry Bernard
Cop with Tootchache (uncredited)
Baldwin Cooke
Mr. Cooke (uncredited)
Billy Gilbert
Smith - Investment Broker aka The Spot (uncredited)
Charlie Hall
Man on the Street (uncredited)
Jerry Mandy
Charley's Neighbor (uncredited)
Margaret Mann
Mrs. Mann, Landlady (uncredited)
Howard Truesdale
James Morgan (uncredited)
Leo Willis
Hold-Up Man (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Panic Is On (1931) about?
This 1930s comedy follows Charley Chase as a penniless dreamer desperate to marry his sweetheart, whose father insists he needs a fortune first. With rent overdue and luck running out, Chase turns to a dubious self-help book for answers, leading to a series of chaotic misadventures and a high-stakes job delivering a threatening letter.
Who directed The Panic Is On?
James Parrott, a prolific director known for his work in silent and early sound comedies, helmed The Panic Is On.
Who stars in The Panic Is On?
The film stars Charley Chase, Virginia Whiting, Harry Bernard, Baldwin Cooke, and Billy Gilbert as the central cast bringing its Depression-era chaos to life.
Is The Panic Is On (1931) worth watching?
As a short-form comedy from the early talkie era, The Panic Is On offers a fun blend of slapstick and social satire, ideal for fans of classic film humor. While it lacks a modern rating, its charm lies in Chase's energetic performance and Parrott's snappy direction, making it a solid pick for vintage comedy enthusiasts.
How long is The Panic Is On?
The Panic Is On is a brisk 20-minute short film, perfect for a quick dose of classic comedy.
About The Panic Is On (1931) — A 1930s Comedy Classic with Charley Chase
"The Panic Is On (1931)" delivers a sharp, Depression-era comedy directed by James Parrott, a master of slapstick timing. Star Charley Chase plays a lovestruck dreamer whose romantic ambitions clash with the harsh realities of 1930s financial despair. Virginia Whiting portrays his beloved, whose wealthy father demands cold hard cash before blessing their union, while Chase's character faces eviction and relentless bad luck. Armed with a dubious self-help book promising success through sheer willpower, Chase navigates a series of escalating mishaps—including a high-stakes letter delivery that could land him in hot water—all while chasing a paycheck and the girl of his dreams.
Set against the backdrop of economic collapse, this 20-minute short balances witty absurdity with poignant social commentary, capturing the era's desperation through exaggerated yet relatable gags. Parrott's direction keeps the energy brisk, blending Chase's trademark physical comedy with a storyline that's as heartfelt as it is hilarious.
