About Safety Last!

Safety Last! is a 1923 silent film directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor. The film is most renowned for the image of star Harold Lloyd clinging to a large clock high above a city street. The film tells the story of a department store sales clerk who pretends to be the store manager in order to impress his girlfriend.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by Hal Roach, a prominent figure in Hollywood comedy. The film was made during the prime of silent cinema, before the introduction of sound. It was shot on location in downtown Los Angeles, with the iconic clock scene being filmed on the Universal Studios lot.

Actors

• Harold Lloyd as "The Boy" - Lloyd gives a brilliantly comedic and physical performance as a young man trying to climb the social ladder.
• Mildred Davis as "The Girl" - Davis plays the charming love interest with both comedy and poignancy.
• Bill Strother as "The Pal" - Strother provides admirable support as Lloyd's mischievous friend.
• Noah Young as "The Law" - Young portrays the formidable yet liable police officer with great humor.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The iconic clock scene was achieved using a combination of real stunts and trick photography.
• Despite popular belief, Harold Lloyd didn't actually perform all of his stunts due to losing a thumb and forefinger in an accident in 1919.
• The film is included in the Library of Congress National Film Registry due to its significant contribution to American culture.

Awards

While there were no formal film awards in the 1920s, Safety Last! is frequently lauded as one of the great works of silent cinema.

Quotes

• "Why don't you eliminate the middleman?" - Lloyd's character utters this line in a scene where he is attempting to court his love interest.

Music, Soundtrack

As a silent film, Safety Last! does not have a conventional soundtrack. However, it is accompanied by a score curated specifically for the film’s comedic moments and dramatic effects. The musical compilation blends perfectly with the silent visuals to enhance the experience.