When Father Has Toothache 1922
When Father Has Toothache (1922) offers a sharp, silent-era comedy brimming with physical humor and ironic twists as a once-cynical man suddenly understands the agony of dental pain when he's struck by his own excruciating toothache.
Director: Erkki Karu
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is When Father Has Toothache (1922) about?
This early Finnish silent comedy flips the script when a man who dismisses his wife's and friends' toothaches suddenly faces his own unbearable dental pain. The film follows his frantic, comedic attempts to escape the agony while discovering the empathy he once lacked.
Who directed When Father Has Toothache?
Erkki Karu directed this 1922 silent-era comedy. Known for his pioneering work in Finnish cinema, Karu crafted films that blended humor with social insight during the formative years of the industry.
Who stars in When Father Has Toothache?
The film features Emmi Jurkka as the patient wife, alongside Eino Jurkka in the lead role, with Aku Käyhkö, Naimi Kari, and Armas Fredman rounding out the main cast.
Is When Father Has Toothache (1922) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this 24-minute silent comedy offers a charming glimpse into early Finnish filmmaking, with sharp humor and relatable themes. Its brevity and physical comedy make it a fun pick for fans of vintage films and short comedies, especially those curious about Finnish cinema's golden age.
How long is When Father Has Toothache?
The film runs for 24 minutes.
About When Father Has Toothache (1922) — A Silent Comedy Classic You Won't Forget
When Father Has Toothache (1922) offers a sharp, silent-era comedy brimming with physical humor and ironic twists as a once-cynical man suddenly understands the agony of dental pain when he's struck by his own excruciating toothache. Directed by Finnish pioneer Erkki Karu, this short film twists the tables on its protagonist, whose earlier indifference to his wife's and friends' discomfort gives way to desperate, slapstick attempts to find relief from his own throbbing misery. With a runtime of just 24 minutes, the film packs in relatable themes of suffering and empathy, wrapped in a breezy, early-20th-century comedic style that balances broad visual gags with a surprisingly heartfelt message.
Set against the backdrop of 1920s Finland, the movie showcases Karu's knack for blending sharp social observation with lighthearted storytelling. Starring Emmi Jurkka and Eino Jurkka as the long-suffering wife and the reluctant toothache sufferer, the cast brings a mix of exaggerated physical comedy and poignant moments to this compact yet memorable film. Though rooted in the silent era, its themes of humility and shared human experience still resonate today.