
A Tray Full of Trouble 1920
Step into the untamed world of the Old West with *A Tray Full of Trouble* (1920), a short yet explosive silent comedy that swaps six-shooters for slapstick and saddle for satire.
Director: William Campbell
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Tray Full of Trouble (1920) about?
*A Tray Full of Trouble* follows Snooky, a mischievous chimpanzee who finds himself at the center of a chaotic adventure in the Old West. When a tray full of trouble—literally—lands in his paws, Snooky must navigate saloons, deserts, and showdowns in a series of absurd escapades that parody classic Western tropes.
Who directed A Tray Full of Trouble?
William Campbell directed *A Tray Full of Trouble*. While Campbell's filmography remains modestly documented, this short film showcases his knack for blending humor with unconventional settings.
Who stars in A Tray Full of Trouble?
The film stars Snooky, the charismatic chimpanzee lead, alongside a supporting cast of Western archetypes and silent-era performers who help elevate the comedic chaos.
Is A Tray Full of Trouble (1920) worth watching?
At just 19 minutes long, *A Tray Full of Trouble* is a compact yet delightful entry into silent-era comedy. Its unique premise and energetic pacing make it a standout for fans of vintage slapstick, though its unrated status leaves its broader appeal open to interpretation. For those curious about early cinema's lighter side, it's a quick and entertaining watch.
How long is A Tray Full of Trouble?
The runtime of *A Tray Full of Trouble* is 19 minutes, offering a brisk and binge-friendly dose of comedy.
About A Tray Full of Trouble (1920) — The 19-Minute Silent Comedy That Puts a Chimp in the Wild West
Step into the untamed world of the Old West with *A Tray Full of Trouble* (1920), a short yet explosive silent comedy that swaps six-shooters for slapstick and saddle for satire. Directed by William Campbell, this 19-minute gem casts Snooky, a mischievous chimpanzee, as the unlikely hero of the Wild West—a twist that blends anthropomorphic humor with frontier antics. Against a backdrop of dusty saloons, tumbleweeds, and soaring cliffs, Snooky's antics unfold with chaotic charm, turning a classic Western setting into a playground for absurdity and mirth. The film's playful subversion of genre clichés, paired with its energetic pacing, creates an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and refreshingly unpredictable.
While short films from the silent era often rely on physical comedy, *A Tray Full of Trouble* leverages its unique premise to deliver laughs through Snooky's expressive antics and the stark contrast between primal mischief and Western bravado. The absence of dialogue heightens the visual storytelling, allowing the film's quirky charm to shine through every exaggerated gesture and comedic mishap. For fans of vintage slapstick or anyone craving a lighthearted escape into early cinema, this 1920 short offers a delightful slice of cinematic history worth revisiting.