Those Boys! 1909
In the early days of cinema, D.W. Griffith crafted a silent comedy short that blends mischief with near-disaster in the blink of an eye. "Those Boys!
Director: D.W. Griffith
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Those Boys! (1909) about?
This silent comedy short follows two boys who discover a hidden pistol and turn it into a game, unaware their sisters are dangerously close. Their playful antics spiral into a tense moment as their parents scramble to stop a potential tragedy. The film blends humor with suspense, all wrapped up in less than five minutes.
Who directed Those Boys!?
D.W. Griffith, a pioneer of early American cinema, directed "Those Boys! (1909)". Known for shaping narrative filmmaking, Griffith's work here reflects his talent for balancing comedy and drama within a compact runtime.
Who stars in Those Boys!?
The short features Linda Arvidson, Dorothy West, Florence Lawrence, and Anita Hendrie in key roles.
Is Those Boys! (1909) worth watching?
While it's a product of its time, "Those Boys! (1909)" offers a fascinating glimpse into early filmmaking techniques and Griffith's vision. At just four minutes, it's a quick but rewarding watch for silent film enthusiasts and fans of comedic storytelling with a dash of danger.
How long is Those Boys!?
Those Boys! (1909) runs for 4 minutes.
About Those Boys! (1909) — D.W. Griffith's Early Comedy of Near-Disaster
In the early days of cinema, D.W. Griffith crafted a silent comedy short that blends mischief with near-disaster in the blink of an eye. "Those Boys! (1909)" follows two young lads who stumble upon a pistol their father has tucked away, unaware of the chaos their plaything could unleash. Their innocent target practice takes a dramatic turn when they line up the barrel—only to realize their sisters are just on the other side of the door. A frantic race unfolds as their parents discover the missing gun, racing against time to prevent what could have been a tragic accident. The film captures that classic silent-era charm, where humor and tension coexist in just four minutes of screen time.
With Griffith's signature knack for visual storytelling and a cast featuring early film icons like Linda Arvidson and Florence Lawrence, "Those Boys! (1909)" offers a snapshot of 1909's filmmaking ingenuity. The short's playful tone contrasts with its underlying theme of childhood curiosity and the unintended consequences of careless actions. A century later, its swift pacing and clever framing still deliver a punch of entertainment, proving that great comedy—and great filmmaking—transcends time.