About A Day's Pleasure

A Day's Pleasure is a silent short film directed and starred by Charlie Chaplin, released on December 15, 1919. The film revolves around a man, played by Chaplin, and his family who embark on a boating trip.

The film begins with the man trying to take his family for a ride in his newly purchased car. The ride is rocked with various mishaps, including the car getting stuck. The film switches scenes to a ferry ride where Chaplin's trademark physical comedy ensues as he gets into a fight with a burly man and accidentally capsizes a small boat.

Making / Production

The film was made by First National Pictures, Chaplin's production company at that time. Known for his perfectionism, Chaplin shot many scenes on the Laughing Gravy, a boat used in several other First National films.

Actors

• Charlie Chaplin (Father) - Chaplin once again plays his iconic Tramp figure, but this time as a family man. His physical comedy and insightful commentary on familial situations are on full display in this film.
• Edna Purviance (Mother) - Purviance often starred opposite Chaplin in his films and her chemistry with him shines through in A Day's Pleasure.
• Jackie Coogan (Son) - A young Coogan only features briefly in the film, but his later popularity makes this film notable.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film was Chaplin's fourth release for First National Films.
• It was Chaplin's shortest feature film, running at only 21 minutes.
• "A Day's Pleasure" is often overshadowed by Chaplin's larger projects, such as "The Kid" and "The Great Dictator".

Quotes

• As a silent film, "A Day's Pleasure" doesn't have scripted dialogues but is filled with Chaplin's signature slapstick comedy.

Music, Soundtrack

The film, being a silent one does not have a formal soundtrack, however, it features the use of silent film music typical of the era, emphasizing moments of comedy and drama.