Cohen Collects a Debt 1912
Cohen Collects a Debt (1912), a silent-era comedy short directed by Mack Sennett, delivers classic Keystone-style chaos as a secondhand clothier unwittingly receives $1000 meant to force him into bankruptcy.
Director: Mack Sennett
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cohen Collects a Debt (1912) about?
This 1912 silent comedy short follows a clothier who receives $1000 meant to ruin him financially, only to find himself hunted by a disguised bill collector. His frantic attempts to avoid repayment lead to a series of chaotic, humorous encounters.
Who directed Cohen Collects a Debt?
Mack Sennett, a pioneer of slapstick comedy and the founder of Keystone Studios, directed this short film.
Who stars in Cohen Collects a Debt?
The film features Ford Sterling, Mabel Normand, Mack Sennett, and Fred Mace, with Normand playing a key role in the comedic mayhem.
Is Cohen Collects a Debt (1912) worth watching?
While it's an obscure silent-era short, Cohen Collects a Debt offers a delightful glimpse into early comedy filmmaking. Its rapid-fire gags and Sennett's direction make it a fun watch for fans of silent films, even if it lacks modern pacing.
How long is Cohen Collects a Debt?
The short film runs for 5 minutes.
About Cohen Collects a Debt (1912) — A Silent Comedy Short Filled with Slapstick Gags
Cohen Collects a Debt (1912), a silent-era comedy short directed by Mack Sennett, delivers classic Keystone-style chaos as a secondhand clothier unwittingly receives $1000 meant to force him into bankruptcy. When a cunning bill collector disguised in various outfits pursues him, Cohen's desperate attempts to evade capture turn into a whirlwind of slapstick humor and misadventure. Filmed in For Lee, New Jersey, this 5-minute gem captures the playful spirit of early cinema, where mistaken identities and relentless pursuit fuel the laughter. The film's fast-paced gags and physical comedy reflect Sennett's signature approach, blending absurdity with the charm of silent storytelling.
Starring Ford Sterling as the beleaguered Cohen, Mabel Normand as a mischievous accomplice, and Mack Sennett himself in a supporting role, the cast's energetic performances elevate the short's comedic timing. Themes of deception and financial woes unfold against a backdrop of early 20th-century American life, where even a simple debt can spiral into a farce. Cohen Collects a Debt (1912) remains a fascinating snapshot of silent cinema's golden age, offering a glimpse into the origins of modern comedy films.