About Speedy

Speedy is a silent comedy film released in 1928. It tells the story of a young man named Speedy Swift, portrayed by Harold Lloyd, a die-hard New York Yankees fan who can't keep a job for more than a day. His lack of employment does not sit well with his girlfriend's father, who owns the last horse-drawn streetcar in New York City. The major plot revolves around Speedy saving his girlfriend's grandfather’s horse-drawn carriage business from a gang of thugs who are enlisted by a relentless railroad magnate.

Making / Production

Directed by Ted Wilde, the screenplay was written by Albert DeMond, with John Grey and Lex Neal, from a story by Jay Howe and Clarence Hennecke. The film was shot on the streets of New York City and includes some memorable sequences, such as a wild ride on a horse-drawn carriage through the city streets and a classic sequence at Luna Park in Coney Island.

Actors

• Harold Lloyd plays the role of Speedy Swift, a devoted baseball fan and our ever-enthusiastic protagonist. He brings his staple slapstick humor and physical comedy to life in this film.
• Ann Christy portrays Jane Dillon, Speedy's patient and loving girlfriend who supports him throughout his numerous jobs.
• Bert Woodruff fills the shoes of Jane's grandfather, Pop Dillon, the horse-car owner who desperately wants to prevent his small business from being overpowered.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie features a cameo from the legendary baseball player Babe Ruth, playing himself.
• This was Harold Lloyd's last silent movie.
• The scenes shot in Luna Park were actually filmed there, with real Coney Island amusement park patrons in the background.

Quotes

• "Hey, you big bully, what’s the idea of hitting that little bully?" - Speedy Swift
• "Don't be so familiar!" - Jane Dillon

Music, Soundtrack

• Being a silent film, there's no traditional soundtrack as such. However, in later releases, a musical accompaniment composed by Carl Davis plays in the background to enhance the silent action on the screen.