Barnum Was Right Poster

Barnum Was Right 1929

★ 5.01 votes42 min📅 1929-09-22

"You'll be surprised how loud you can laugh!"

In *Barnum Was Right (1929)*, a clever but desperate hotel owner named Freddie turns to a wild marketing stunt to revive his struggling business.

Director: Del Lord

Cast

Glenn Tryon
Glenn Tryon
Freddie Farrell
Merna Kennedy
Merna Kennedy
Miriam Locke
Otis Harlan
Otis Harlan
Samuel Locke
Basil Radford
Basil Radford
Standish
Clarence Burton
Clarence Burton
Martin
Lew Kelly
Lew Kelly
Harrison
Isabelle Keith
Isabelle Keith
Phoebe O'Dare
Gertrude Sutton
Gertrude Sutton
Sarah
Louise Beavers
Louise Beavers
Maid

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Barnum Was Right (1929) about?

The film follows Freddie, a struggling hotel owner who fabricates a story about hidden pirate treasure to attract customers, only to find himself caught in a wave of comedic chaos. As the rumor spreads, guests and locals join the wild chase, turning his scheme into a spectacle of laughter and unexpected consequences.

Who directed Barnum Was Right?

Del Lord directed the film. Known for his work in silent comedy, Lord brought a sharp eye for visual gags and fast-paced humor to this 1929 short.

Who stars in Barnum Was Right?

The film features Glenn Tryon as Freddie, Merna Kennedy as his love interest, and Otis Harlan in a scene-stealing supporting role.

Is Barnum Was Right (1929) worth watching?

As a silent-era comedy with a breezy runtime and classic slapstick humor, it's a fun, lighthearted watch for fans of early cinema. While IMDb ratings aren't available, its blend of romance, action, and laughs makes it a charming time capsule of the era.

How long is Barnum Was Right?

The film runs for 42 minutes.

About Barnum Was Right (1929) — A Silent-Era Comedy Treasure Hunt

In *Barnum Was Right (1929)*, a clever but desperate hotel owner named Freddie turns to a wild marketing stunt to revive his struggling business. By claiming there's hidden pirate treasure lurking within the old building, he sparks chaos and comedy as guests, locals, and even skeptical staff become embroiled in the absurd hunt. Directed by the brilliant Del Lord, this silent-era gem blends slapstick action with romantic tension, creating a whirlwind of laughter and unexpected chaos.

Glenn Tryon leads the cast as Freddie, with Merna Kennedy adding charm and humor as his love interest, while Otis Harlan's comedic timing steals scenes. The film's breezy 42-minute runtime keeps the energy high, mixing clever gags with a dash of adventure as the treasure myth spirals out of control. With its playful themes of deception and redemption, *Barnum Was Right* is a lighthearted ode to the power of a good story—even when it's completely fictional.