The Pest Poster

The Pest 1917

★ 5.33 votes12 min📅 1917-11-15

Dive into the zaniness of early cinema with *The Pest (1917)*, a silent comedy directed by Arvid E. Gillstrom and starring Billy West in a Chaplin-inspired role.

Director: Arvid E. Gillstrom

Cast

Billy West
Billy West
The Pest
Oliver Hardy
Oliver Hardy
Ethelyn Gibson
Bud Ross
Bud Ross
The Bellboy
Leo White
Leo White
The Count

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Pest (1917) about?

The film centers on a mischievous tramp, played by Billy West, who wreaks havoc in a series of comedic misadventures. His antics unfold in rapid succession, showcasing the exaggerated humor typical of silent-era comedies. The story is less about a plot and more about the sheer joy of slapstick chaos.

Who directed The Pest?

Arvid E. Gillstrom directed *The Pest (1917)*, bringing his expertise in silent comedy to this fast-paced short film.

Who stars in The Pest?

The main cast includes Billy West, Oliver Hardy, Ethelyn Gibson, Bud Ross, and Leo White.

Is The Pest (1917) worth watching?

While *The Pest (1917)* is a product of its time, its fast-paced gags and slapstick humor remain entertaining for fans of silent comedy. With a 12-minute runtime, it's an easy watch for those curious about early film history. Just don't expect deep storytelling—this is pure, unapologetic fun.

How long is The Pest?

The runtime of *The Pest (1917)* is 12 minutes.

The Pest (1917): A Silent Comedy Classic — Full Movie Info

Dive into the zaniness of early cinema with *The Pest (1917)*, a silent comedy directed by Arvid E. Gillstrom and starring Billy West in a Chaplin-inspired role. The film follows a mischievous tramp who stumbles through a series of absurd mishaps, embodying the anarchic spirit of silent-era humor. With Oliver Hardy lending his comedic talents and Ethelyn Gibson adding charm, this 12-minute short delivers quick-witted gags and slapstick chaos. The atmosphere crackles with the energy of a bygone era, where physical comedy and exaggerated expressions ruled the screen. While it cheekily rides the coattails of Charlie Chaplin's iconic Tramp, *The Pest* carves its own niche with its relentless pacing and playful unpredictability.

*The Pest (1917)* isn't just a relic of silent comedy—it's a window into the playful, boundary-pushing world of early filmmaking. Gillstrom's direction keeps the chaos tight and the laughs flowing, making this a must-watch for fans of physical comedy and silent-era classics. Whether you're studying the evolution of comedy or just craving a dose of vintage humor, this short film offers a delightful glimpse into the roots of modern slapstick.