One Way Out 1931
In the quirky, short comedy One Way Out (1931), directed by Arthur Hurley, a man in the fictional town of Elyria faces an unexpected bureaucratic hurdle when he tries to end his own life.
Director: Arthur Hurley
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Way Out (1931) about?
The film follows a man in Elyria who becomes entangled in a bureaucratic nightmare when he attempts suicide. Instead of stopping him, a cop directs him to the Department of Suicides, where he's granted a permit to proceed. The absurd comedy highlights the town's rigid rules even in matters of life and death.
Who directed One Way Out?
One Way Out was directed by Arthur Hurley, a filmmaker known for his work in early short comedies.
Who stars in One Way Out?
The main cast includes Charles Lawrence as the desperate man, Thelma White as a key supporting character, and Ray Collins rounding out the trio.
Is One Way Out (1931) worth watching?
Given its 9-minute runtime and unrated status, One Way Out is more of a curiosity than a cinematic masterpiece. It's a fun, lighthearted glimpse into early sound-era comedy, but not a must-see unless you're a fan of obscure shorts or absurd humor.
How long is One Way Out?
One Way Out (1931) runs for 9 minutes.
About One Way Out (1931) — Classic Comedy Where Suicide Requires a Permit
In the quirky, short comedy One Way Out (1931), directed by Arthur Hurley, a man in the fictional town of Elyria faces an unexpected bureaucratic hurdle when he tries to end his own life. Instead of finding support or intervention, he's informed that a permit is required to commit suicide, sending him straight to the Department of Suicides to obtain the necessary paperwork—only to leave with a stamp of approval.
The film blends dark humor with the absurdity of red tape, painting a lighthearted yet satirical picture of life in Elyria, where even self-destruction follows procedure. With Charles Lawrence leading as the determined yet frustrated protagonist, supported by Thelma White and Ray Collins, the nine-minute romp delivers a quick, witty escape into early 1930s slapstick tradition. It's a snapshot of an era where comedy thrived on the ridiculousness of everyday obstacles, making One Way Out a curious footnote in classic film history.