
The Rough House 1917
"A vast, fast and exciting comedy"
Dive into the chaotic charm of *The Rough House (1917)*, Roscoe Arbuckle's hilarious silent-comedy masterpiece. Directed by Arbuckle himself, this 20-minute romp unfolds in a household where one careless mistake spirals into a series of escalating disasters.
Director: Roscoe Arbuckle
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Rough House (1917) about?
This short silent comedy follows the misadventures of Mr. Rough, whose careless antics spark a chain reaction of disasters in his home. From setting his bedroom ablaze to a disastrous dinner party filled with duplicity, the film's chaotic energy drives the story forward with hilarious results.
Who directed The Rough House?
Roscoe Arbuckle directed *The Rough House (1917)* and also stars in the lead role, showcasing his knack for blending physical comedy with storytelling.
Who stars in The Rough House?
Key cast includes Roscoe Arbuckle, Al St. John, Buster Keaton, Alice Lake, and Agnes Neilson, each bringing their own brand of humor to the film.
Is The Rough House (1917) worth watching?
As a silent-comedy classic from the early 20th century, *The Rough House* offers a delightful snapshot of the genre's golden age. While it's light on plot, its kinetic energy and slapstick brilliance make it a standout for fans of vintage comedy and Arbuckle's work specifically.
How long is The Rough House?
*The Rough House* runs approximately 20 minutes, perfect for a quick, laugh-filled break with classic cinema.
About The Rough House (1917) — The Ultimate Guide to Arbuckle's Silent Comedy Classic
Dive into the chaotic charm of *The Rough House (1917)*, Roscoe Arbuckle's hilarious silent-comedy masterpiece. Directed by Arbuckle himself, this 20-minute romp unfolds in a household where one careless mistake spirals into a series of escalating disasters. Fire, romantic entanglements, and a disastrous dinner party collide as the clueless Mr. Rough tries—and fails—to keep the peace in his own home. With his wife, meddling mother-in-law, and a cast of eccentric characters—including Buster Keaton in a scene-stealing role—the film blends slapstick chaos with clever timing, all wrapped in the frenetic energy of early 20th-century comedy.
The atmosphere is pure pandemonium, driven by Arbuckle's signature physical humor and the playful antics of his ensemble. From a kitchen mishap to a dinner party with hidden agendas, every moment crackles with unpredictability. *The Rough House* isn't just a relic of silent film; it's a testament to the timeless appeal of slapstick, proving that even a century later, a well-timed pie to the face never gets old.