Founded in 1995, haroldlloyd.us is the world’s first website dedicated to Harold Lloyd, the silent film comic actor. For two and a half decades, haroldlloyd.us has been very proudly pioneering Harold Lloyd’s internet presence and shepherding his life and his times into a new century.
Continuing to honor a legendary career … and well into celebrating the centennial of his famed Glass Character and its magnificent films. Here is where you can learn all about a work life well spent … filled with laughter, thrills, tragedy, improvement, innovation, utter joy. THIS is the beginning of your journey of learning about Lloyd’s life and work, to interact with other fans, to react to posts, to share screenings/airings/events, and to share your personal discovery of the undiscovered country that is Harold Lloyd.
Look how we’ve grown since our earliest days!!!
Still hosted by Lloyd biographer Annette D’Agostino Lloyd … who hopes you enjoy your visit … Hey There! Why Worry? For Heaven’s Sake, you’ll Never Weaken in Harold Lloyd’s World of Comedy! He Leads, Others Follow! Let’s Go!
Harold Lloyd dot US 
Does the silent version of “Welcome Danger” still exist?
If so, will it ever be released on video?
Hello!
A silent version exists. Not THE actual one as HL constructed it, but a reconstructed one, made up of surviving footage from the silent and sound-less footage from the film as released in 1929. I personally prefer the silent variety of this film and do hope it is offered on DVD. I will share the request with the powers-that-be, and thank you for the request. It should be out … the silent is an easier and more enjoyable watch, IMHO.
I worked at the Harold Lloyd estate twice. Once when they were trying to make a tourist attraction out of it I think it was the foundation we were doing a lot of work to make it pass all the rules for having the public in. My friend Randy and myself we refinished the wood on the screen doors leading outside. We were there awhile and saw everything. There was a man and a lady still working there. The lady was a housekeeper and the man was was like a butler or something. I remember helping her turn the mattresses. The lake and long driveway were still there and the waterfall, the game room and the secret windows in the bedroom. I also worked there a few years later when part of the movie Westworld was filmed there. It was a wonderful place and I hate seeing so much of it gone
Thank you for sharing your insights! I would love it if you’d consider expanding your memories into an article for the site! E-mail me if you’re interested!!!
Hello Annette,
I appears that a new swimming pool was built at Greenacres. I thought the home and the grounds were protected as a historical site. Do you have any information on this?
Thanks,
Joe Benny
The house is what is protected by the National Registry designation Joe, not the grounds. Even the Registry didn’t stop the 1975 estate auction winner from subdividing the 16 acres into its present 6 acres (and 10 1-acre lots surrounding). Great question!!!
I have a 2-reel film of Harold Lloyd’s that I would like to give to you. It’s “Move On” – on 2 reels, not one.
I had them put on a DVD for myself, but would like to see the film where it belongs – in the Harold Lloyd collection. The archive has the film, so it may not be wanted by them. But I would love to find a permanent home for these two Pathe reels. Thanks.
Hello Joanne! You are very kind! Are these 8mm reels? It’s a one-reel film, so it’s being on 2 reels is interesting. Please e-mail me at mrslloyd1999 at gmail dot com so we can discuss. Happy day to you!
Hello, Annette or Suzanne: Will the Lonesome Luke silent movies with Harold Lloyd be released on DVD’s ? I saw one on “Silent Sunday Nights”, TCM, hosted by Jacqueline Stewart , about 2 months ago. Kristine
On Fri, May 15, 2020 at 2:25 PM Harold Lloyd dot US wrote:
> Annette Lloyd commented: “Hello Joanne! You are very kind! Are these 8mm > reels? It’s a one-reel film, so it’s being on 2 reels is interesting. > Please e-mail me at mrslloyd1999 at gmail dot com so we can discuss. Happy > day to you!” >
Hi! There should be a Lonesome Luke set. I will gently raise the topic, yet again. All the best, Annette
This concerns your phenomenal “Harold Lloyd Encyclopedia”:
Has the 1917 film “Luke Wins Ye Ladye Faire” been found since you published your “labor of love”?
In the HLE above, you list “Mrs. Davenport” in the cast in the film above. Other sources say “ALICE DAVENPORT”. If they are one and the same (or not), what is your level of confidence?
I notice for 1921 releases, you have a “Mr. Davenport” acting in one film and a “Harry Davenport” acting in another. Are they the acting couple who divorced in 1896, the parents of actress DOROTHY DAVENPORT?
JARVIS—Chicago
Hi!
To my knowledge, Luke Wins … is still lost, or at least has not been found yet. We have so few extant Lukes.
As for the Davenports, all I listed was what was in the ledgers. In lots of instances, they would list Mr or Mrs with only a surname. Based on what I have seen, I don’t think we’re dealing with Dorothy (Mrs Wallace Reid). But it is always possible that they are her parents. Not knowing what they look like, it’s hard to tell.
Best,
Annette
Hello, Annette,
Thanks for reply. Harold Lloyd had a Charlie Chaplin look in “The Lonesome Luke” movies, before he wore the round eyeglasses and hat. Kristine
That’s right. But the real Chaplin imitation came before Lonesome Luke: it was Willie Work that employed over overly loose clothes, while Luke’s pants and jacket were too tight.
Did Harold Lloyd go to (high) school in Toulon IL? I have a 5/12/1929 letter from HL to my great grandfather and great uncle after their visit to his estate (also have pictures of them there). HL closes with “Remember me to all my good old Toulon friends”. My great uncle graduated HS in 1909.
Hello Stephen,
Thank you for posting! No, HL didn’t attend any school in Toulon, but his father’s family hailed from there. Harold only attended schools in Nebraska and Colorado.
Annette
Are there any good copy’s of Off the Trolley left. I’m starting a virtual library at a trolley museum I volunteer at and I’ve been trying to locate a copy to add.
This is the most substantive chunk of this 1919 short on YouTube. The trolley segments can be isolated for your virtual presentation.
Hello Ms Lloyd
My name is Bob Siler. You posted my article “Driving With Harold – Cars He Owned.
I discovered two more cars he owned later in life and wanted to let you know.
1956 FORD and 1969 FORD LTD
This is one bitchin’ site to spend time out. Anyone who wants to put together a tribute site for a celebrity
should check out this site and learn how to do it right.
Take care
Bob
Bob! You’re terrific! I appreciate your kind words and your continued research. Do me a favor, if you could – send me what you know about these cars (possibly when he had them, how you learned about them, any substantial background) and I will add to the article. E-mail to mrslloyd1999 at gmail dot com. So delighted to hear that, after 23 years, HaroldLloyd.US is still rocking! Lots still to do! Have a great day, Annette
Hi Annette! Your page here suggests that “Crystal Gazer” survives,and I’ve found an old forum post where someone tells you it’s at Eastman House. Did you ever manage to confirm that that is indeed the case?
Hello Dr. Matt – I have not yet been able to definitively confirm that Luke, Crystal Gazer is one of the two unidentified silent shorts housed at George Eastman House. The process of listing the extant films is so tricky, and evolves by day. I have sent an e-mail to the staff to ask, and to again offer my help to ensure that the film is, indeed, there. I will let you know when I hear from them, on this page, and thank you for the reminder!!! Annette
Thank you *so* much, for this quick reply and for all your amazing work.
Dear Annette! I have some interesting follow up on this.. could you email me mlodder@essex.ac.uk and I can pass it on!
Hope all’s well.
Hello. I hope you can help me. I am a big fan of Harrold Lloyd and ther is a movie he made where he is on a train. At some point in the movie, the train catches fire. People are chasing him. And the part i remember the most is, he finds himsels in the middle of a battle with eather the, blue or red coats.
I only saw this movie once many years ago, and i cannot seem to find it.
Hope you can help.
Thank You.
Tony Beard
Tony, are you possibly thinking of Buster Keaton’s The General?
Hello Annette, can you tell me how Harold Lloyd avoided service in World War I? Did he participate in any kind of war preparedness or service training between 1915-1918?
Hello Todd – Great question, one which has been asked before. HL never really elaborated on this issue much, except to say that he had been advised, by (ostensibly) the US Government that he would be more valuable to the war effort by staying home and lifting the spirits of the populace by continuing to make films. Of course, this he did, at the pace of 1 one-reeler per week, through 1919. He had no formal training or preparedness for WWI. He was merely told that his services were most needed at home. Thank you for writing (and sorry for the delay in finding your message!), Annette
I found your site today while I was doing some research on Hal Roach. This is a great place. Thank you for preserving the legacy of this amazing film comedian.
Thank you Muffy! I am curious about your Hal Roach research – if I can be of any assistance, particularly with The Lloyd Years, or pointing you in the direction of some of my Roach pals, please let me know. E-mail me, or find me on Facebook (or the Haroldlloyd.us page on FB) anytime!
Annette, We have a quite interesting and important thing to tell you. We have an original 16mm of two 1910 Harold Lloyd films. It was passed down to us from our grandfather. I have noticed that everything I have found on the internet, nothing dates back before 1913. Is there anyway we can show this to you and see what you think? This can be an enormous piece of film history here and we need to find out exactly what it is and the story behind it. Thank you and we look forward to talking with you soon.
Bruno, I am SO sorry – I just got this message! Please write to me directly at mrslloyd1999 at gmail dot com – or Friend me on Facebook and message me there. I look forward to hearing from you! Annette
Hello Fellow Lloyd – ites –
My name is Bob Siler. Let me first tell you how much I love this site. What fun it is to venture from section to section. And I think I might have something to add. I’m trying to put together a complete list of the cars he owned during his life. Below is the list of what I’ve got. If anyone can add to it would be great. Maybe together we can have a complete list.
Take care
Bob
DRIVING WITH HAROLD LLOYD
HAROLD LLOYD’S AUTOMOBILE COLLECTION
1918 / 1919 CHANDLER PHAETON
He had it painted a brilliant blue. Thiswas his first car.
1924 ROLLS ROYCE SILVER GHOST RIVIERA SALAMANCA CABRIOLET
1925 ROLLS ROYCE SILVER GHOST PALL MALL TOURER LHD
1935 PACKARD SEDAN
1936 CLOSED PIERCE ARROW
Pierce Arrow Model 1602 . Beautiful 4 door sedan. Model 1602 V-12 3 speed free wheeling OD transmission. 17 inch wheels. Car was originally owned by silent movie star actor Harold Lloyd. Only 135 of these were made in 1936. Midnight blue exterior. Grey interior. 144 inch wheel base. More photos are available.
BUICK
CUNNINGHAM AUTOMOBILE
BUICK ROADSTER (Red)
Custom built Station Wagon on a Chevrolet chassis
SIX CYLINDER CHEVROLET
LINCOLN SEVEN
PACKARD ROADSTER
TWO ROLLS ROYCES
Hi! I’m a huge college aged Harold Lloyd fan and have been my whole life. I plan on studying the history of silent film as my film minor concentration. I was doing some research on the fight to racially integrate housing in Hollywood in the 30’s and 40’s and in the book I was reading it mentioned, almost in passing, that Harold Lloyd led the fight to keep Hollywood housing segregated. I googled it but I haven’t found anything further on the subject so I was wondering if this site could offer some insight. Thank you!
Hello, i’ve been a fan o harold since i was fourteen, i distinctly remember seeing for the first time on a AMC commercial plug for the third genius documentary. it started with the infamous clip from safety last! and other lloyd films. and i was hooked on him from that moment on. by the way at nitrateville a film preservationist has recently located a print of lost glass character one-reeler.
also, another Harold sighting—on an episode of “the walking dead”, there is a movie poster for Harold’s short “back to the woods”. wonder why it is there
Hello, I have not been on here for a loooong time. Just a couple of things I have noted recently. I found a website that is a movie fan archive (photoplay, motion picture magazine etc). Just select your magazine and date , type in a name and search and it marks all the pages to look at. Found a few new tidbits about Harold. There is an article by Harold’s mother about his childhood, article about having to wear dark glasses with real glass (to protect his eyes post accident),, and one blurb in a 1918 mag about who is involved in the war—Harold enlisted in the navy. hmmmm
Can anyone tell me which film has HL driving down the street on the seat of his pants? Early stop motion.
Thanks
Annette dearest, I’m sure you probably have noticed that TCM uses a clip of Harold being dragged– or “driving the invisible car” that one of your reader questioned. I was curious and couldn’t find the source anywhere short contacting TCM.
Thank you for answering my question about how they made Harold’s hair stand up. How sweet you are.
I hope that your Lloyd family is happy and doing well up in RI (are you really not related; I learned that my family are actually descended from French Lloyds, ours is Loyd. I just thought my ancestors were too dumb to spell!)
How are your backyard movie nights this summer? I must confess that oftentimes on a lovely summer evening, I look out from my terrace and wistfully think of you. I hope that you’re enjoying a wonderful summer–Anne
great website.i was brouht up on the time life series with don huletes scores.if any body has these on dvd i would be very interested.richielong@freezone.co.uk
I have put one and a half episodes of Harolds time life episodes onto Youtube, including Pinched, the one where Harold removes his glasses (I have many episodes, but annoyingly they will not upload). I shall try again. In the meantime you can find them under HAROLD LLOYD TIME LIFE EPISODE 1 and 2.
Annette, thank you so much for this site! For school, I am doing a research paper, a comparison of Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Harold Lloyd. Your site has been most helpful and has provided me with not only facts about HL, but also some more personal views of his films:) Of HL’s films, I have only seen The Freshman, but I loved it! My immediate family and I watched it with my grandparents one night and it had us all in stitches! He’s the most adorable man in glasses, and his films are simply amazing!
God bless,
—Elly—
I also watched Hot Water last night, and loved it!
Hi, I’m new to this site, But have been a fan of Harold’s for over 30 years. I too was introduced to his genius by the Time Life series when it was shown here in the uk in the early 1980s. I was then only a small boy, but I fell in love with these fantastic old films and have never forgotten to Time Life shows. I wish someone would release them on DVD. I know they were cut around badly and not complete like Harold would’ve wanted them but those shows hold many many happy memories for an awfull lot of people. I am a generation that knows who Harold was, yet my parents had no idea ! and my knowing id thanks to these shows…….. I see you’d posted the very poor copies from you tube. well I’ve done some work on one of them and although the quality still isn’t great, I think its a lot more watchable now. I’ve sewn all four parts back together, improved the sound slightly and returned it to black and white rather than the blue tinting and rain bowing of the original. Hope you all enjoy 🙂
Amazing story, the website really looks neat and I really love how it was arranged visually. I remember watching Harold old films and it really great to see this site dedicated to him. HL Sightings is really wonderful, are those candid photos?
Hello friends and fellow movie lovers. I have a question about the first Harold Lloyd short I saw. It began with Harold looking like he was sitting in the back of a car. It isn’t the one from Movie Crazy because when the car pulls away his feet are kicked up on the handlebars of his bicycle and he is laying back relaxing. I saw this on tcm and immediately fell in love with his movies and watched harold for about eight hours straight. I would just like to know the name so I can look for it. Any help would be much appreciated.
Hooray for Harold Lloyd! I placed on YouTube two episodes of the Harold Lloyd show from the 1970s with the song “Hooray for Harold Lloyd” and music you may remember
Freshman
Hot Water and Safety Last
Hi Bill. I prefer the Time life longs because of the dubbing and the music. So much better than Thames tv version. I used to have why worry and grandmas boy in that format. Off the telly. Did virgin ever release those Time life versions on VHS?
Virgin only released 3 features on VHS….Hot Water/Safety Last, The Freshman, The Kid Brother. They were planning to release more but their lease must have expired on the films…this was in 1987 or thereabouts (the Time-Life TV broadcasts also went off the air that same year). I have most of the features and TV episodes. They were originally taped from the television but I have had them transferred to DVD….videotape has a habit of deteriorating! I used to have “Back to the Woods” on VHS: I recorded it when it was on BBC2 in the 1980s, but the tape deteriorated before I could get it transferred, so the tape was lost.
1920 movie, get out and get under where Harold Lloyd’s model T. car breaks down at the side of the road and a little black boy starts messing around with him, does anybody know the filming location of that scene. Thank you and have a great day.
Other than Culver City, it may be documented someplace
Get out and get under released September 12,1920.
Dear Annette,
My name is Josh Glick and I am working on an exhibition on representations of Coney Island in film, photography, and painting. I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Yale University, teaching in the departments of Film and Media Studies and American Studies. The exhibition is scheduled to open at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford, CT and will travel to the Brooklyn Museum and the San Diego Museum of Art. I am writing a series of essay on the rich relationship between film and coney Island for the accompanying book catalog. Harold Lloyd’s Speedy is an extraordinary film that figures prominently in one of my essays. I have been looking for sources that describe the production history of the film, when he went on-location to Coney Island versus when he used settings back in L.A. I have looked into a number of your books including the Harold Lloyd Encyclopedia and the Bio-Bibliography. I have also listened to the DVD commentary and read Lloyd’s An American Comedy. Any additional sources or documents would be much appreciated. And if you would like to speak over the phone, that would be great. My email is joshua.glick@yale.edu. Looking forward to speaking with you.
Kind Regards,
Josh Glick
Annette, you missed out listing THE KID BROTHER Oct. 23 in Rancho Mirage with live music and live sound effects by the PHOTOPLAY ENSEMBLE. The show received a standing ovation. It was licensed through the Harold Lloyd Estate.
Hello from Australia,
I was wondering if you could identify this Harold short http://31.media.tumblr.com/671e75fc4132da1170bd976866ddf752/tumblr_mtmv5y6oqI1qcgwn4o4_500.gif
It was included on the recent Criterion release of Safety Last! in a featurette and it looks as though it’s been restored to some degree. I’d love to see more Harold on DVD or Bluray, I do hope they are planning to release them! Anyway, I love the website and I love all your Harold books. Thank you so much for doing what you do.
Thanks again,
Amelia
Hi Amelia –
Oh, that clip is so short – it’s almost impossible to guess what short that could be – I can guestimate that it’s 1918, and then can tell you which shorts from that timeframe are extant, and then can say, it’s one of those. I do hate to guess, because I’ve worked so hard over the years to perfect HL’s filmography, I’ll keep my eyes open for that clip when I see the newest restored shorts, that’s for sure! Thanks for being a great fan! Annette
Thanks!
Also I do these animations which you might be interested in. There are a few of HL and I’d love for you to take a look!
http://ameliaephraims.tumblr.com/tagged/illustratedgif
This scene is from the first few minutes of the marathon (may 25,1919)
Great site! Very professional, does Harold great credit. When I was a wee lad, the local PBS station had Harold Lloyd movies on once a week. They introduced the movie with a song that started something like “Look out for Harold Lloyd, da da ta da da ta da ta ta, Harold Lloyd….”. Does anyone remember this? I cannot find it anywhere on the Internet!
Here is a medley of music from that beloved program, Tom – it starts with music that accompanied Hot Water, and moves through the features that were included in the half hour and hour long packages. I can hear this music, still, to this day, and know what film I was watching. Amazing how things stay with you. Enjoy this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWKvqpnbog8 … You’ll also enjoy this, the open (along with some “classic” Harry Korden narration): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSKlevNfwWo
I love this show … always will …
Yours,
Annette
Hi Tom! The Time-Life features were released on home-movie format by Blackhawk (on cine film) and Virgin (on PAL-format VHS) and can still be picked up on ebay and other auction sites like Amazon, etc. I have a few episodes of the TV show on VHS and Beta although they’re a bit crackly in places! (here in the UK they were broadcast throughout the 1980s on BBC2). I’ve been a fan for years and I still love a lot of the Time-Life stuff. I have a load of memorabilia from that era, including promotional stills for the Time-Life films and television broadcasts. Feel free to contact me if you’d like more info.
Hi Gavin
Is there any chance I can get copies of your Time Life HL films. Been searching for ages having foolishly deleted my Betamax copies many years ago. If only I’d kept them I would have placed them on youtube…
Yes, I remember seeing that. Was it made out the Harold Lloyd estate and his daughter (was her name Suzanne?).
Hi Monica!
Yes, the Harold Lloyd Estate leased the films to Time-Life Television for production of the series. Suzanne Lloyd had control of the films, and her friend Rich Correll a co-producer.
Hey Annette just read your bio Magic in a Pair of Glasses. Just great. I discovered Harold in 1966 with the Funny Side of Life and the Freshman. It was instant love as you know. Thought you should know a little known fact. Two years after that I was at UCLA and they were showing The Freshman and City Lights at Royce Hall. I took a dear friend of mine who was in the film department and didnt know Harold. He too was bitten by the bug and became a lifelong fan. His name was Colin Higgins. A year later he wrote Harold and Maude and yes the title character is named after our boy. He originally asked me to do Harold is his project 3 film at UCLA. There was no Maude at the time, just Harold and his 3 dates but after reading his treatment we convinced him this should be a feature and he went on to write his full length and a cult classic was born. colin and I also went to the auction sale of Harold’s furniture on Wilshire. Most of the furniture was rather baronial so we didnt pick up anything but as we left we walked past the back of the building and in the dumpster were pictures , albums, shots of his daughter in front of the cottage etc., so we did take home some memorabilia. I also found it interesting that after Colin became successful he bought his Hollywood home in Benedict Canyon. He told me Harold’s home was just around the corner. How about that?
Also got to meet Harold twice. Once showing the Freshman at UCLA film dept. Also think Rich Correll was with him. Got to know Rich well later. I’m an actor and did 7 or 8 shows with Rich. Became friends , went to one of his fabled halloween parties etc. He can vouch for me if you wish. You can also Imdb me. Steve Vinovich is the name. Made a good living as an actor and the face is familiar so they tell me. Love to hear from you . Not a lot of folks out there to share my LLoyd mania. I’m doing an off Bwy show right now Old Jews Telling Jokes so if you get to NY give a yell I’ll get you into the show. Maybe we can do lunch, as they say , and share some Harold stories. Thank you for keeping his memory going. It is appreciated Steve Vinovich
Rich, very interesting story. Kristine
Hello Annette,
I research a Columbia short subjects series, called “Screen Snapshots,” and ran across one with Harold Lloyd. It showed him watching a bathing beauty contest in Palm Springs, sometime in the early 30’s, I think. I don’t know the exact year, but was wondering if you might have that information or know someone that can help. Glad to see a site dedicated to him.
Thanks!
Ann McKee
fun to see the early short films last night on TCM ! ok, i am finally going to ask this : has anyone besides myself noticed the “naughty” pigeons on the window ledge in Safety Last ?
They certainly seemed interested in HL, Debbie, didn’t they? Maybe it was the peanut butter on his straw hat and in his hair. Or, maybe, they just thought he was cute!
Yours,
Annette
are you sure you saw the same ones, annette ? i’m talking about the frisky ones that were cozy with each other before flying over to harold . (but i am sure they thought he was cute )
Annette – PLEASE HELP!
Last night I caught the very end of a Harold Lloyd/Bebe Daniels short film. I don’t know the movie’s title and would very much like to see it in its entirety.
Lloyd and Daniels were sitting in a curtained booth (next to Bebe Daniels’ character’s father), in a crummy cafe/restaurant. I believe they were hiding from the father, but caught him in a dalliance with another woman at the cafe. The few minutes I saw were hilarious!
If you can, please send me the title to the film short so I can make sure I buy the correct DVD for it.
Thank you so much for your kind cooperation.
Hi Stan!
The film you mention is one of my favorites too – it’s called “It’s a Wild Life.” HL was at his acrobatic best at the end of this one-reeler – and the dancing (albeit comedic) of Harold and Bebe was really sweet. Thanks for asking!
Annette
Hi Annette – great site – I’ve just seen a few references to finding original copies of ‘An American Comedy’ and would highly recommend both Abebooks and Albaris – I got my 1928 first edition for the equivalent of $11 from the latter. Happy hunting folks!
I can’t for love nor money find out when the World of Comedy TV series was actually made from a Google search. 60s, 70s? The one with the “Hooray for Harold Lloyd” theme tune. Is it available on DVD? All I found was the reference to the 1962 film of the same name. Loved that music, ragtime and all; it seemed pitch perfect as accompaniment to Harold’s screen antics. Your help appreciated!
Umar, the show you cite was on TV from 1974 through the very early 1980s. It is NOT available on DVD currently. As this program was my personal introduction to HL, I would love to see it out there, just for nostalgia sake. (And, I, too, loved the music – it was different from what would be expected as accompaniment to a silent, but nice!)
Annette
Frustrating, isn’t it! I’m sure a DVD of this show would sell well as children – old and young 😉 – could experience the very same enjoyment that we did.. ahem.. years ago.
At least someone’s taken pity on poor nostalgic types like us and put up a medley of the series’ musical tracks on YouTube.
Many thanks for the info, Annette.
All the best
I have a few episodes on video/dvd. Time-Life distributed the Harold Lloyd films in the 1970s/1980s…here in the UK they were broadcast between 1980-1987. Three of the Time-Life features were officially released on videocassette here, and can still be picked up on amazon and ebay “Safety Last”, “The Freshman” and “The Kid Brother” (on the Virgin video label – Hal Roach Library). It is still difficult gaining any kind of access to these versions (which now belong to Time-Warner Entertainment). A shame, especially since Don Hulette’s wonderful scores are no longer heard….his work is SO under-rated, even among scholars. It is high time that his work should be honoured for its craftsmanship and genuine musical merit.
For several years I have been acquiring information and documents relating to music written for the Harold Lloyd films, and – in particular – the Time-Life films which, despite their bad press in the general literature about Harold Lloyd – were responsible for a massive world-wide revival of interest in the films.
If anybody would like to share information etc contact me at lee-gavin@sky.com
The series Annette and Umar write about was also my personal introduction to Harold Lloyd during my early teens. I fell in love with this magnificent clown for his comedic genius and great physical beauty. While the series may not exist on video/DVD, aren’t we all lucky that a few are available via our beloved YouTube:
Was wondering if you ever saw these pictures from a visit to Tacoma union station? I am a lifelong Tacoma resident and also a stadium high school graduate, and I just recently found out about Harold Lloyd’s wife being a Tacoma girl. I don’t know why Tacoma keeps this such a secret. I think it’s cool. Do you know if he came to Tacoma very often? What was his wife’s house address growing up? I’m really curious as to which house it was. I’m sure the people that live there now would love to know about it, if they don’t know already. Sincerely, Brad Cunningham
Brad, somehow, the picture(s) you cite didn’t get posted. If you are on Facebook, friend me and post them on my page – I know I would love to see them! Mildred Davis Lloyd was from Tacoma, as was Roy Brooks, who was a friend of Mid’s who went on to become a frequent costar in Harold’s films, and later his social secretary. I would like to think that the good people of Tacoma would like to know that movie folk hail from their great city!
Annette
http://search.tacomapubliclibrary.org/images/dt6n.asp?un=162&pg=9&address=1717+and+AVE+and+PACIFIC&stemming=&phonic=&fuzzy=&maxfiles=
I posted the link to the tacoma public library site here that has the photo I was talking about. Do you have any more info on trips to tacoma that Mr. And Mrs. Lloyd may have made to tacoma? I’m very curious as to what house Mildred lived in in tacoma. I find this whole thing very interesting.
http://www.tacoma.k12.wa.us/sites/schools/stadium/Pages/default.aspx
Here also is a link to stadium high schools website. It’s still a high school after all of these years. I graduated from stadium in 1991. Both Mildred Davis and Roy Brooks went to school here.
http://search.tacomapubliclibrary.org/images/dt6n.asp?un=161&address=1717+and+AVE+and+PACIFIC&stemming=&phonic=&fuzzy=&maxfiles=
Another link to a picture I found on the tacoma public library site.
Howdy! Would you mind if I share your blog with my twitter group?
There’s a lot of folks that I think would really appreciate your content. Please let me know. Thanks
Please do! (Of course, if you are a spammer, please don’t.) Thanks for the praise!
Annette
Please do, Lillie.
Hey All –
Check out this magnificent piece of original art:
http://woodcuttingfool.blogspot.com/2011/12/hands-of-time.html
It’s called Hands of Time – how fitting a tribute to Safety Last!
Yours,
Annette
Does anyone know where I can obtain (or view) Harold Lloyd’s first “thrill” designated picture,
“Look out below” from 1919.
I seem to have it missing from my collection and it doesn’t show up on youtube either.
please i hope this question will not upset any body but does any one know if the Time-Life tv show “Harold Lloyd’s World of Comedy” is out on dvd .I ask, as this was whot introduced me and many others when it was on television in the 1980s to Harold Lloyd’s work . I would therefore like to see this again ?
belated reply, but yes the Harold lloyd World of Comedy compilation is out on DVD. I saw some on ebay some time ago, and would assume that it comes up from time to time.
That is if you are alluding to the one that Harold himself compiled (showing extracts from some of his films) during the 1960’s, and which I believe was shown at the Cannes film festival?
heres a link to going going gone (i have also viewed are crooks dishonest and veiwed this film and both are different even though plot is very similar)
i have now viewed girl shy again and know find it to be one of my favorites after the kid brother,the freshman,speedy and saety last!. girl shy also is what i believe to be his first film as “his own boss”
with the harold lloyd corperation.i also need help on indentifying a film.in Annette’s book “Harold lloyd magic in a pair of horn rimmed glasses” and on this website that harold early glass character one reeler “going going gone” is presumed a lost film but on youtube i have found a video on youtube titled “going going gone!” when i began to view this film the beginning of the film was not titled going going gone but something in french “harold lloyd dans une excursion mouvementee” i found the translation harold lloyd in “an eventful trip” a sentence under the title “scene comique jouee par LUI”
translated “stage comedy performed by HIM” the film opens with a older women teaching a group of girls including Bebe daniels when the teacher seems preoccupied with reading a book the girls wander off to swim one of the gets pinched by crab on her foot then harold and snub come in riding a two man bicycle snub in the front seat harold in the back harold opens up an umbrella opens up what appears to be a backpack on snubs back harold pulls out a newspaper theres more plot but i think thats enough for someone to indentify the film as “an eventful trip” as an alternate title or going going gone or a different film entirely send me your thoughts and answers if you can.
Alex.
As far as I know this is indeed the film “Going, going, gone”, and presumably not lost after all.
However Annette or someone else can confirm–probably that I am wrong!
I saw it on Youtube some months ago. Quite amusing. Harold and Snub Pollard are mistakenly thought to be wanted crooks–a case of mistaken identity. All comes OK in the end, and I think Harold gets his girl.
Naveed, I believe the film to which you are referring is “Are Crooks Dishonest.” Many years back, a bootleg copy was distributed on 8mm with the bogus title “Doing, Doing, Done.” Until I did my research at the Library of Congress, I didn’t know that the title was entirely made up.
Well there you have it, Annettes comments that it was a differing film.
From our expert.
I suppose the actual “Going going gone” film….is truly gone! 🙂
“Are Crooks Dishonest” as I said was quite amusing for an early one reeler.
By the way I have managed to now obtain a VHS edition of “Professor Beware” from a private seller, and just saving it for this next weekend to watch for the first time. Its copied from the actual film reel, so should be in good condition.
Will let everyone know my impressions.
I also recently obtained an official (Harold Lloyd estate) DVD version of “Welcome Danger” (Harolds first talkie). Previously I had a self-taped VHS version from the television.
What a difference in quality! I actually enjoyed the overall film more in the official DVD. Once again I like the early sequence when Harold meets his girl (and initially believes her to be a boy). It gets a bit tedious later in the Chinatown sequence, I thought–but contemporary film audiences must have loved the novelty of the talkies.
Its quite entertaining as a whole. Although Movie Crazy and Milky way remain my favourites of the talkies.
As of this date, I have an edition of Harold Lloyd’s autobiography: An American Comedy, 1st edition 1928, for sale.
Its an ex-library, but with most of the cards removed, and only a date stamped. In fairly good condition.
For further details, please contact me at naveedhaque@rogers.com
I’ve enjoyed visiting this site. I hope someone can help me: I’m trying to discover the name of a film based on a scene that my late father found hilarious. I’m not sure that it’s Harold Lloyd, Keaton, or another actor. In the scene, the character’s glasses are caught in the venetian blinds he’s looking through. When the blinds are pulled up, his glasses come off his face and go up with the blinds. I’d appreciate if anyone who recognizes this scene would let me know the film’s name. My email is phyllis@kpkl.net (that’s KPKL) Thank you!
ive never seen wings,but i really like speedy i think its one of his greatest longer films and i agree that jobyna ralston was very well known as his leading lady but i do think ann christy did a really good job as the leading lady in speedy,so send your thoguhts if you can
alex
Yes of course Jobyna Ralston was not in Speedy. However my statement holds true- in that when Wings came out, she must have been a very popular actress, and even known as Harolds former leading lady to some of the audiences.
Personally though I think that Jobyna had a ‘special something’—perhaps a photogenic allure to her, that was missing from Ann Christy.
However I agree that Ann did a good job in Speedy. But she did not have the impact of Jobyna on the viewer in my opinion– I think in particular Jobyna Ralson and Harold had greater chemistry between them–they seemed to complement each other nicely.
Of course I believe that Bebe Daniels and Harold were the most sparkling, and had the best chemistry of all! But that was earlier in the silent days only. Nice to hear these two were good friends to the last. In fact Bebe passed away a few weeks after Harold, and was grieved at his passing in 1971.
I just saw the silent film called “Wings”, which won the first academy award ever in the late 1920’s. It stars Clara Bow as the main actress, but I was pleasantly surprised to see Jobyna Ralston as the other love interest in this undoubtably famed picture. It tells the story of two men who love the same girl (Jobyna) and then go off to war—joining the same air force . Clare Bow is the girl who likes one of these men, who later realizes he is actually in love with her.
In the meantime the aerial battles (over what is supposed to be France) are very well-done and realistic. Amazing film footage.
Jobyna Ralston, who of course was Harold’s main leading lady must have been very well-known to audiences when they watched “Speedy”.
welcome danger on youtube today
But WHEN will I ever be able to get to watch Professor Beware!! Not seen it as of today (May 2012).
I have a video recorded Welcome Danger.
i agree girl shy is great film but its Not my favorite,i do really like dr. jack i find in my opinion its one of harolds most underrated movies grandmas boy is hilarious my favorite scenes are the (very funny) civil war scenes also correct me if im wrong but i believe it is the film that put harold on the number one comedian spot throughout the rest of the twenties.so send me thoughts if all possible.
alex
I have to agree when you say that Dr Jack is one of his most under-rated shorter films. I really like it as well. Maybe one of my favourites of the shorts, along with Never Weaken and one or two others!
In Dr Jack, we had Harold as a very upbeat, positive doctor, and full of energy. Towards the end there is that delightful sequence when he pretends to be the (escapee from the neighbouring mental institution) and takes everyone in the household for a ‘chase’. I always thought he looked so realistic in that disguise, and it was certainly a cure for the (Mildred character), who forgot her inibitions and the fact she was supposed to be unwell! I must give kudos also to the (dog) actor in that sequence.
Annette or someone will probably correct me if I am wrong, but Grandmas boy (a film that Harold always loved, by the way) certainly got him a lot of attention. However it was not the film that put him in the first spot for the entire decade (the twenties). I think that came a bit later.
my favorite of harold’s characters as annette put it “the uncaring rich guy” is so funny in my opinion his best silent films are “for heavens sake” and “why worry?” he played that character and i feel that
with that character allowed him to use the most gags while still fitting in with the storyline
i also agree with naveed on the sound film “the cats paw” and though i think its a good film
its not a great film i also agree that his best sound film is “movie crazy” so send me youre thoughts if you can.
Alex.
Once again just putting my two penny worth in, so to speak. I really thought “Why Worry?” is a hilarious short film. Just the concept of Harold being in the middle of a revolution, and being absolutey unaware of that fact–in the first few sequences of the film! Also the giant person provides the ‘touching’ element for the viewer, when he is so attached to Harold after getting his tooth problem fixed (which is also hilarious).
Harold Lloyd thought highly of this film.
However he was not feeling too heavenly about “For Heavens Sake”, and considered it not –one of his best efforts. Once again I (and obviously Alex) disagree with Harold Lloyd. While it is not my favourite, I thought “For Heavens Sake” had some delicious moments. Take that scene when all the shady characters are inveigled to chase and follow Harold to the church. The ‘chase’ is very amusingly done, with several good gags–such as when they start running after the wrong guy, and Harold contrives to get them following him again! Or when he hits the police guy etc.
The idea of Harold being a rich, slightly spoilt character in this film, but then falling under the spell of his girl (Jobyna) and doing the right thing–is also worthwhile. It somehow hits us emotionally.
My only critique is that his friends would hardly kidnap him before his wedding, and the scene with his drunk friends later seems a bit contrived—amusing but not totally natural.
“Never Weaken” is actually one of my very favourites—it has a great thrill episode in my opinion.
As for “Get out and get Under” this may be rather under-rated as no-one seems to mention it too much in reviews etc. I thought it was very good.
Worth watching for Harolds antics. Also interesting for showing up the (little black actor) who later become Hal Roach’s star kid in the “Little Rascals” series. That young actor also crops up in ‘Haunted Spooks”.
Might I join in? For some reason I too find Harold’s “uncaring rich guy” incredibly hilarious; it makes him so oblivious to what’s really happening. As for my favorite short, (although I love Never Weaken) I enjoy Haunted Spooks- Well, minus the rascism, which makes us squirm. What is it that makes Mr. Lloyd so brilliant at making such dark matters of suicide SO utterly funny? I crack jokes relating to these scenes with my friends from time to time (as I had forced them to sit down and watch Harold Lloyd with me…), along with my brother. Personally, though I truly love all of Harold’s work I’ve seen, I have to say that Hot Water and For Heaven’s Sake are not my favorites. Although Harold is rather funny throughout most of those, he seems a little out of it, or the storyline doesn’t quite flow. But, some of my favorite scenes are from those- Harold dealing with all those packages, him taking the new car out for a spin (and totaling it), Harold flailing about on that bus driven by the drunk friends, and him being that snotty rich guy having his car totaled, him buying a new one, and, while wearing his hub-cap helmet and cranking the new automobile, watches as it too is destroyed beyond repair by an upcoming train. Something and him about totaling cars or damaging them is hilarious. I guess that’s why I laughed so hard when another Harold Lloyd website listed in its ‘fun facts’ that when he bought his first new car, he totaled it the same day!
Anybody else think Girl Shy is a bit underrated? I adore that trolley-car bit! (Not mention, but the rest of the film is wonderfully cute to watch- and I don’t typically use the word ‘cute’.)
-Alice
Well I also enjoy the scenes with Harold in which he is totalling the cars (in his films). They have all been so hilarious. My interest is probably in the cars themselves though—I simply love looking at all the ‘classic’ automobiles of those earlier decades, and in fact go to classic car shows and auctions here in Canada whenever possible. This is one of many reasons I like “Get Down and Get Under”, for example– and some of the other films, that hightlight the cars.
But you are right, Harold has been good at the rich, uncaring character. However he has been also good in other characterisations (for example the rather upbeat, caring doctor in Dr Jack, or the shy but resolute young man in Girl Shy etc). Personally I would not think he was uniquely outstanding as the rich uncaring characteristion AS COMPARED to some of the other glass character roles.
Only the fact is that Harold is rather unique in any role he adapted in these films!
The glass character’s success was partly due to the fact that viewers could relate to the character undertaken by him–they saw it as somewhat like themselves or folks they knew in everyday life. Someone who was not larger than life, but believable.
As for GIRL SHY, I am really bordering on the view that this could be my overall favourite in the Lloyd feature films. It seems to have a lot going for it, as I already mentioned in a previous post here. The thrill chase sequence towards the end just cant be bettered for its thrills and variations. How many conveyances does Harold use? The street-car episode was so memorable. But the film also has real characterisation and gets to us emotionally through Harold and his doings. Chemistry was great between Jobyna and himself in this one. I also love Kid Brother, Safety Last, The Freshman—Girl Shy is hardly my only fav in the feature category. But it is largely under-rated out there, and I could not put it personally under any of the others.
I also wanted to briefly comment on the alleged racism in Haunted Spooks. Yes the black folk are represented as servants in the film, and maybe condescendingly amusing (but then most of the characters in Harolds films are geared to amuse us). One of the black servants shaking in fear or chattering his teeth when believing a ghost to be around is hardly a racist depiction! It could have been a white person being similarly afraid.
My answer is that during that era and in those times, black folks WERE servants and given secondary status in society. In fact Harold in his films (such as Haunted spooks) portrayed them amusingly, but in no real way deregatory or in a racist manner.
Any shortcomings seen today on this aspect can be attributed to the general times. Haunted Spooks should really make no-one even today squirm in their seats over this aspect.
In the later talkie Feet First, we had that janitor in the building who was portrayed as rather stupid–Harold stuck outside the building asks him to help, and the black janitor does not seem to understand etc, and when he does cant explain properly. At one point he even puts Harold in more danger, by letting go off the hose etc.
But the fact is that Harold for the plot of the film required a dense (janitor) character. Many black folks were in reality janitors in buildings–and while not all dense!!, it was not far-fetched that one of them might have been…….again take any racial overtones as part of the era/times. And then there were many black characters that were quite ‘normal’. Such as the conductors in trains, or the black kid I mentioned in my other post.
yes i agree his short films are great aswell “captain kidd’s kids”,”never weaken”,”get out and get under”
etc.,i just watched miss fattys seaside lovers 1915 an early role for harold before his major fame
and honestly i could hardly tell it was harold he looks so different with out the glasses
i am planning on getting the comedy collection box set i have a portable dvd player so it will be great to have harold lloyd movies wherever i go.it is also great to talk to others that are fans of harold lloyd.
Alex.
yes,hot water is a very great film and and though disjointed very funny and i think harold was one of if not the only to move into feature films that never went back to short films harold always seemed to go foward with his films during the twenties where either gag pictures,character pictures or thrill pictures
which you probably already know. another one of my favorites is the kid brother which seemed to me as both a character picture and a gag picture i think its a great film.
alex
As I said, Hot Water is a very good & amusing film. Indeed Harold did get into the feature length films, and then never looked back! However one must keep in mind that some of his ‘shorter’ one and two reel films are also great.
Certainly from the early 20’s and onwards he seems to have become more ‘refined’ and accomplished, and mostly had the right dose of gags and character element in his films, with some having those thrills (either climbing stunts or ‘chase’).
The Kid brother in my opinion is an excellent film, and a good example of his more refined films. I would also add, amongst its other appeal, that the actual filming–and scenery/atmosphere in this film was also very worthy. Truly a character–and gag picture.
By the way, I have found an online link for Harold’s autobiography (to read for free). :
http://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/006609274
harold’s autobiography “:An American Comedy” was initially published in 1928, around the juncture he was filming the silent film “Speedy”.
I think it is very interesting, ,my only objection being the title of the book. It gives the impression that Harold was making films that somehow only had American humour—while in reality his films and humour are UNIVERSAL. Its a misleading title, for Harold not only had very real American personae and humour–but also humour that was appropriate and common for the world.
But enjoy the book. copy the link, and you can get to it.
today is harold lloyd’s birthday,happy birthday!!
Information on the Harold Lloyd Birthplace in Burchard, Nebraska:
http://oceanaroll.tumblr.com/post/20446138488/salesonfilm-save-the-harold-lloyd
I am SO delighted to have people talking about HL on this site – this is EXACTLY why I designed the latest version of HL.US to be as interactive as possible. Yay – gab away, and while we will keep it HL-oriented, all comments on him and his films are welcome!
Hello, my name is Kristine. I lived in California, years ago, wish i could return. My parents(now deceased)and I knew Mario Lanza’s family. I heard Lanza’s late daughter, Colleen was married to Pat Davis, nephew of Harold Lloyd. Condolences to Gloria Lloyd’s family. I like the website, Annette.
Very interesting Kristine. Seems like a definite Lanza connection with the Lloyd family!
What is your favourite Lloyd feature film, and/or shorts?
Apologies to Annette. We seem to be turning this “Home” section into a free for all discussion group.
Annette and Everybody, I liked all of Harold Lloyd’s movies. Since I am a fan of Lucille Ball, I liked “A Girl, A Guy, And A Gob” which starred Lucy, George Murphy, and Edmond O’Brien. I know that Harold Lloyd produced it. I once heard that if a film biography of Harold Lloyd had been made, Harold Lloyd would have liked Jack Lemmon to portray him. I am a fan of Jack Lemmon.
i missed professor beware aswell,but i check youtube about once a day to see for any recently posted harold lloyd films,another website to check for any classic films is the internet archive,though YOUTUBE has more lloyd films on it the internet archive still has some but last time i checked that website didnt have professor beware or welcome danger either,but i shall keep searching.
alex
By the way, I hear that Barbara Kent (who acted as Harold’s leading lady in his first talkie “Welcome Danger”, and also in “Feet First”) passed away last October at the age of 103!!
She was a Canadian from Alberta who broke into Hollywood during the late 1920’s, and never worried about not being ‘right’ for sound movies, as her voice was quite pleasant sounding. It was of course in 1929 and 1930 that she acted in the Lloyd pictures, but she continued until the late 1930’s before retiring.
Naveed and Alex,
Professor Beware is one YouTube again today, under his account ‘RixOrpheum’ as ONO!!! ENCORE Professor Beware (riokidagain). Please enjoy it before it’s gone! (I think if we ask Ric again we might be considered as pestering him…I don’t know of anyone asking for THAT many encores in a long time…)
So, good luck! I will try to watch it tonight as well. As a side note, I’ve been noticing that Ric has been leaving up some of the ONO!!!’s longer than just one night, but don’t rely on that, as it’s only an observation over the past few days.
Alice
looks as if I missed it once again! But I can’t blame myself. How would I have known of the existence of his other channel Orpheum, or check up on it?! He never indicates to a requester of where and when a film is being dowloaded.
I think its not my fate or karma to watch Professor Beware at all.
Naveed, do not lose hope! Hasn’t Lloyd’s character always taught us that? Do not request Professor Beware again- I’m trying to work on another way for you to see it, as I now have a copy (I’m not one to typically download stuff off of YouTube, but…) because I thought this might happen. I’m either going to see if I can post it for a short while on YouTube under my own account, or if I can send you a more permanent solution. From what I’ve gathered, you check in here every so many days because you’ve had a hard time catching the film and its ‘advertisements’. I would also assume that you you check your email more often than here, so if you could send me an email to ‘whichnesswhatness1920@gmail.com’, I could inform you quicker of anything, like a possibility of having Ric post Welcome Danger, the only other Lloyd feature I haven’t had the pleasure of watching yet, or I posting Professor Beware for you.
I really would like you to see it, as it’s a good film in my opinion, and anyone should have a shot to see whatever films of Harold they can. If they ever release it or Welcome Danger in the US, I will be one of the first to purchase them!
Alice
PS- If you were questioning what on earth my email is, it’s a wacky little song preformed by the Astaire siblings during the ’20s.
I’m sorry to hear about the passing of Gloria Lloyd.
anyway,the website looks great and i have alot more knowledge on Harold and his films.
harold is amazing i really enjoy his films,a great film that really catches my eye is “hot water”
so many funny scenes but i enjoy all of harolds films. Also anyone know where to get “welcome danger” on DVD or anywhere else? because i haven’t seen it yet or a copy of the film “professor beware” the only two of harolds feature films i have not seen.Im only 13 but i love silent films
(i know i have alot to learn on the art of silent comedy) anyway what does the third genious mean?
if it means what i think in my opinion he should be first.
Alex.
Hi Alex,
your comment about “Hot Water” being a favourite film of yours, just caught my eye today (in April). Interestingly Harold Lloyd himself did not think too much of this film of his….and avoided talking about it in later years.
I have to disagree with Harold. “Hot Water” was very amusing. It was really a disjointed film though, with three separate parts , each of which could have stood alone. I think the first two were classic parts, and the third was very well-done. We had the Harold buying stuff and going on the bus with the turkey scene, and then the in-laws for the ride on the wrecked car scene, and finally the ‘spooky’ end scene with other manifestations.
While “Hot Water” is not my overall favourite, I think it deserves acknowledgement, and hardly the ignoring that Harold himself showed towards this film. Of course nowdays no-one seems to note his reservations, and Hot Water seems to be deservedly celebrated.
I was worried that might happen. It takes a few days for Ric to put up requests, and you MUST check in once every day to see if it’s up or not; he always puts them up and takes movies down at the same time, so it’s not random, but he doesn’t send a message to inform you. It can just be hard to keep track of your requested video if you don’t go on YouTube often. I missed it the second time it was up too; I thought it might be a good idea to see it twice since you never know when you might see it again.
On another subject: I have just about finished the entire Harold Lloyd Comedy Collection (still have a short or two, and most of the featurettes and other bonus material to go through), and although I’m glad about the accomplishment in such a short amount of time and being able to watch some of “Speedy’s” films I haven’t seen yet, it’s like reading an execellent book: you never want it to end. HL’s movies are very enjoyable, I was actually able to show a good amount of them to family and friends, and they’ve laughed just as much as I have.
Also, I forgot to mention my reactions to some of his sound features. I enjoyed them all, but my favorites have to be The Milky Way and The Cat’s-Paw. I know you said that the latter wasn’t a favorite for you, I quite liked it. Harold portrayed his character very well, and even though he and his leading lady didn’t have much chemistry as a couple, I found it very believable in the way their romance was carried out. I found The Cat’s-Paw extremely fascinating…it was so much different from his other films, especially the way the plotline worked. Harold was clearly able to show just how confused his character was with living in the United States after being in China. He did a remarkable job in this, though my only complaint is about the lip-syncing of Chinese coming from him…granted, he doesn’t know the language. All-together, a great film.
Alice
Hi Alice,
Yes I am still looking for Professor Beware on Youtube. It has not resurfaced after its second showing!
Nice to hear your impressions, and that you have almost finished that excellent Harold Lloyd Comedy Collection. As you say HL’s movies are very enjoyable. I would add excellent for many of them!
But I remain very skeptical of Cats Paw. May be wrong, but I think most folks would tally with my opinion of this film rather than yours and Annette’s.
I re-watched both Cats Paw recently–and my favourite Harold ‘talkie’ Movie Crazy. All I can offer is that for myself there is no comparision. Movie Crazy was so much better.
The entire gags (Harold losing his shoe in the rain, while encountering his future love interest), and later the fight scene with his love interests boyfriend (very reminiscent of the action in the silent Kids Brother towards the end). How can anyone compare with anything in Cats Paw!
You know my critique of the latter movie. I stand by it. I still think it is watchable, but does not deserve the accolades you and Annette are giving it.
Great you have managed to show the films to family and friends. My audience here is limited, but I try to tell folks about Harold.
My sympathies are with the family on the passing of Gloria.
If you will be in the San Francisco area on March 4th, don’t miss this special event.
BALBOA BIRTHDAY BASH FEATURES HAROLD LLOYD AND GEORGE MELIES MARCH 4
Sunday, March 4, 2012 Doors open at 6:45pm
Show starts at 7:00
The Balboa Theatre will celebrate its 86th Birthday on Sunday, March 4. Presented in association with the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, a night at the movies circa 1926 will be the order of the day.
Inspired by Martin Scorsese and Brian Selznick’s HUGO, the evening’s feature film will be Harold Lloyd’s silent classic SAFETY LAST (1923) with a 35mm print directly from the Lloyd family.
It will be accompanied with an original score by pianist extraordinaire Frederick Hodges preceded by a program of short subjects including films by George Méliès. (HUGO again).
There will also be a live vaudeville show featuring George Méliès himself performing some of his famous magic effects on our stage. Songstress Linda Kosut will sing the songs her mother sang.
Author John Bengtson will offer an illustrated lecture exploring the locations Harold Lloyd used to make SAFETY LAST. Bengston will sign copies of his newest book, Silent Visions: Discovering Early Hollywood and New York through the Films of Harold Lloyd.
Take the SAFETY LAST tour.
Everybody will get birthday prizes and the evening will conclude with a special birthday cake created by The Cake Lady, Diane Boate, served with liquid libations.
Audience members are encouraged to dress in their best jazz age clothing as we recreate a night at the movies in 1926. Vintage cars will be in front of the Balboa.
Advance tickets are on sale at the Balboa and online at http://www.BalboaMovies.com
The Balboa Theatre is located at 3630 Balboa Street (@37th Avenue) in San Francisco’s Richmond District.
For more information go to http://www.cinemasf.com/balboa/?page_id=928
For more about Harold Lloyd:
http://www.haroldlloyd.us/
http://www.picking.com/harold.html
Roger Ebert on SAFETY LAST: http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050703/REVIEWS08/507030302/1023
Senses of Cinema feature on Méliès:
http://www.sensesofcinema.com/2004/great-directors/melies/
Brian Selnick, author of THE INVENTION OF HUGO CARBET on Méliès:
http://www.theinventionofhugocabret.com/about_georges.htm
LA Times of revived interest in Méliès:
http://articles.latimes.com/2011/nov/28/entertainment/la-et-georges-melies-20111128
It’s so upsetting to hear that Gloria passed away recently. I haven’t gotten to know what she was like yet, but I’m sure she was very kind.
My condolences, and may she rest in peace.
Alice
ALERT- Professor Beware is on YouTube for today only! It’s under another one of Ric’s channels (99whatsupdoc99) listed as an ‘encore’. A pretty good film, sadly not included in the Harold Lloyd Comedy Collection.
Alice, Thanks for the Professor Beware ‘alert,’. Due to your info, I requested the film from your Youtube connection Ric, and it looks as if he came up trumps. I will be watching it right away, and maybe give my first-time impressions.
can you believe, I missed Prof Beware on Youtube on the 15th. Requested Ric’s channel again, but so far nothing.
I am so sorry to hear about Glorias passing. This is all the more poignant as I have lately been watching some commentaries and biographies on Harold, and was thinking (also reading) about Harolds home life at Green-acres (and of course including) his daughter Gloria. I also heard some commentary by her.
In fact I was just thinking how fortunate that she was still with us today…..alas that is no longer.
I pass on solicitations to Suzanne and the rest of the family,
Naveed
Naveed, the only Place I was able to watch Professor Beware was through YouTube (comes in handy quite a lot, doesn’t it?). One man on there has a couple of channels where he uploads hundreds of classic movies, and he does requests from anyone. I asked him in the comments section of his channel ‘ohpoopnotagain’ to post Professor Beware (you also should leave the year it was made in) and it was up in a few days. However, he posts videos he calls ‘ONO!!!’s which means they’ll only be up for one night. Professor Beware was one of those, but I’m sure Ric would be able to upload it again. I actually found it a bit funny, especially how Harold once shouted “Destiny does not wait for taxi drivers!” during the chase scene. And another scene looks very familiar to the one in Now or Never on top of the train…
Hope this will help,
Alice
By the way, Maddie, I completely agree with you. I just don’t understand how people can just write Harold off as being less brilliant than he obviously is… I think he’s better than Keaton and Chaplin! One look at popularity polls in the twenties tells you that. I think the main reason why so many are not aware of how great he truly is is because of the availibility of his films verses Chaplin’s or Keaton’s. At least we now have the Harold Lloyd Comedy Collection out now- I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have it already!
Hey Guys!
So, for my first post here, I really wanted to ask a question I’ve been seeing on other forums. Some people don’t think Harold should be ranked alongside Chaplin and Keaton, and it completely baffled me!
I believe their justification was that Harold had up to 12 gag men, and Chaplin virtually didn’t (but his gag men were referred to as “assistants”, right?), and Keaton may have, but not as many. I don’t know why the gag men thing matters. In my mind, gag men are people who throw out ideas and get ideas thrown at them. And I completely disagree when Hal Roach commented “Harold Lloyd was not a comedian, but he was the finest actor to play a comedian that I ever saw”. I couldn’t believe I’d heard it.
Harold has some of the most amazing work of the silent era, and I hate to see people that don’t think he was a comic, but just an actor. He didn’t have to perform any scene as flawless and gracefully as he did in any film. He used his skills as an actor and comic to produce such memorable, iconic scenes. He was a genius. He IS a genius.
But for my question: What do you think? Is Harold not worthy of being the “3rd Genius” or being alongside Chaplin or Keaton in terms of comedic talent?
Sorry for the rant. Had to get it off my chest!
Hi Maddie,
Harold Lloyd not only deserves to be alongside Chaplin or Keaton in terms of comedic talent, but in my opinion surpasses both of them. Take what you think is the best film or films of all three, and I guarantee Harold comes up trumps all the time.
But you will not convince many of the so-called experts or those writing articles on silent screen comedians or some folks on forums, who still tend to bypass our Harold!
I want to add that no-one should take Hal Roach’s comments as gospel when it comes to Harolds ability as an actor or comedian. Keep in mind that, despite keeping of appearances (of a willing separation on both sides), Hal Roach must have been very unhappy when Harold decided to quit making films with him back in the early 1920’s. Despite their friendship, I think he carried a sort of grudge against Harold for this reason. It must have also galled him that he was not talented in that sphere (of acting comedy) himself!
As for ‘gag men’, the final say and direction was only Harold Lloyds. We are all inspired by others ideas at times. But how one accomplishes that idea is what really shows the final genius, so to speak.
I’m sure Harold himself came up with stellar ideas.
Alice, keep up the conversation about Harold with others. Its the best to introduce the man on the clock! By the way I have always wanted to view that later talkie Professor Beware. If you know of anyone or any way for me to get hold of that film, let me know!
Just saw The Milky Way again today. Found it very amusing.
Yes, I’m very glad that they enjoyed his films too. They have actually decided to give me the right to show them a movie marathon of Harold’s films from the set when my birthday comes because of how excited I’ve been about it lately.
When found in a situation with someone where neither of us is talking, I strike up an conversation by asking, “Do you find someone dangling off the face of a clock on the side of a building stories up in the air funny?” I always find myself trying to show others that just because something is old, it doesn’t make it boring. If I could find a theater showing a silent any where near where I live, I’d be there in a heartbeat.
I was very fortunate just now to catch Professor Beware airing. Certainly not one of Lloyd’s strongest films, but fairly funny just the same. Checked that one off the list.
Oh, by the way, a person by the username of RedTango on YouTube has bought old reels of some of HL’s one-reelers that you mentioned and transferred them to digital format onto YouTube. I’ve watched a few so far, “Don’t Shove” and “Spring Fever” for example, on there.
Alice
Alice, I don’t know which part of the world you reside, but if you go on ebay (or ebay UK, ebay Canada), you can probably get a DVD set which has Movie Crazy OR The Cat’s Paw (each respectively usually with another Harold feature film). This could be more affordable than getting the Harold Lloyd Box set. Though I highly recommend that one. It has so many films and commentaries on it!
In his silent films, I really like Jobyna Ralston, but Mildred Davis was also nice. Neither will frighten you :). On the otherhand they both complemented Harold very nicely. In Movie Crazy, the leading lady was Constance Cummings, and as I said she had great chemistry with Harold onscreen.
So did Jobyna in particular.
Harold was not too happy with The Sin of Harold Diddlebock. Won’t go into details here, but the filming and production was not entirely in his hands (but that of Preston Sturges, the producer and Howard Hughes (the financial backer of the film). So Harold did not have all his say on how the film should go.
In his sound movies, Feet First is another very good one. I also liked the Milky Way. Prefer both to The Cats Paw. 🙂 Just my opinion.
Sorry for the long wait for reply! Thanks Naveed, for the information about the movie sets (I do live in the US). However, I won’t need that: yesterday, quite to my enjoyment, I was able to convince my parents into letting me purchase my own copy of the Harold Comedy Collection through eBay for a grand total of $113! I know that’s more expensive than it originally was, but it was the only complete set out there for less than $150. I’m expecting it to come in the mail within the next week.
I really enjoy watching the films with Jobyna or Mildred in them. In fact, I recently discovered that I have the same birthday as Mildred!
I can’t wait until the box set arrives. To celebrate after purchasing it, while I was over at a friend’s with some other good company, I convinced her to let us watch Never Weaken and the final twenty-minute squence of Safety Last! Soon, everyone there was crowding around her laptop laughing at every gag and screaming at every clumsy near-fatal misstep on the edge of the building. They all loved it. I was very glad to see them react to it the same way I did when I first saw it.
Thanks again,
Alice
Congratters Alice on the upcoming Harold Lloyd comedy collection DVD. Glad you will be able to enjoy it. One thing you will notice is the pristine reception. A delight, and of course you can use that word in more ways for the Harold Lloyd films.
There are others, but one of my other especial favourites is the relatively shorter “Dr Jack”.
I also liked “Never Weaken”.
So happy that your friends are also enthused. I try to introduce folks to Harold whenever possible, and have had a good response. I wish the local theatres showed his films. I believe he would catch on with the audience of today tremendously. They just need to know & be introduced to this wonderful (mainly silent) comedian, who provides us with more than only thrills.
I was happy today as (what I believe) are more rare HL one-reelers DVD plopped by in my mail.
Titles such as “Hear ’em Rave”, “Going going gone”, “Never Touched me”, “Chop Suey & Co”,
“Spring Fever”, “Don’t shove”, “Pay your due” and others—I have never seen them yet.
The Harold Lloyd autobiography can also be found listed for sale if you google bookfinders.com. In fact I have the original 1928 version only via this site, and it was less than three figures in price! (but without a dust-jacket).
I note that the 1971 reprint has more in it. May need to get it myself now.
Alice, I highly..make that HIGHLY recommend Annette’s book “Harold Lloyd: Magic in a pair of horn-rimmed spectacles. I just read it and had a hard time putting it down. Not only is it compiled in a very informal style of prose, but full of information on this remarkable comedic actor. The turning points of his life, are embellished with some info on his films and other associated actors/actresses, and there are some very interesting and useful photos and illustrations.
I would say it is both worthy reading for the novice and the one already acquainted with Harold.
I only have one reservation, I could not agree with Annette at all in the chapter headed “Harold Lloyd releases The Cat’s Paw”. This chapter discusses his sound film “The Cats Paw”, which Annette reckons was his finest sound movie. I could not disagree more. In that film (which put story-line over gags for the first time) , the character of Harold was not as engaging as in some other movies–including sound ones. His constant recourse to wise sayings was in character, but a thing too much on occasion (mostly his high-flown way of speaking got on my nerves a bit!) . His relationship with the leading female in the film did not have too much chemistry, and was not as worthy (in execution) as Annette has us believe. Mostly the film did not flow as smoothly—as did another Harold Sound feature—“Movie Crazy”. That one–“Movie Crazy”, I opine was his best sound film.
Excellent character, full of laughs and amusing situations, great chemistry with the leading lady—and excellent dialogue, which was not stinted at all, and flowed smoothly.
Sorry for going on here—but this was the only chapter with which I was not in sync in Annettes excellent book.
She also has published “The Harold Lloyd Encyclopedia”, which remains one of the best ‘reference’ whos who on Harold Lloyd. I would recommend both her books, as well as the autobiography.
Thanks for the information regarding Annette’s books! I really need to look into those as soon as possible. I’ve only read one or two books that have ever sounded so engaging as how you described Annette’s novel (one being Fred Astaire’s own autobiography).
I have not been able to watch The Cat’s Paw or Movie Crazy yet. If anyone knows where I can (outside of Harold Lloyd’s box set, though as much as I want it, I don’t think I’d be able to get it), please let me know. I’ve already created a fairly long list of his films that are on YouTube, so anything else added to that would be great.
I recently saw The Sin of Harold Diddlebock, and I found the leading lady in that a bit frightening to watch, with all the “Yes, Mr. Diddlebock,” “No, Mr. Diddlebock,” and “Of course, Mr. Diddlebock,” included in her lines.
Thanks for your help and support, both of you,
Alice
The website looks amazing! I’m new to Harold’s world of comedy, but I’m loving it. Already watched Safety Last!, Girl Shy, The Freshman, Grandma’s Boy, The Kid Brother, The Milky Way, and some of Harold’s shorts. That’s pretty good for a thirteen-year-old given two or three weeks, if I say so myself! Then again, I get obsessive…
Anyway, thank you for dedicating so much of your time into helping other Lloyd-fanatics out there with your books. I hope to read a copy of one soon somewhere. On that note, do you happen to know where I could find an intact copy of Harold’s An American Comedy autobiography? It would be a miracle if I came across one, it seems.
Thanks again,
Alice
Alice, I think YOU are amazing! Thanks for posting such nice thoughts, and for being such a good new fan of HL. You definitely remind me of me (I found HL at age 17, and haven’t stopped yet … and I am soon to celebrate the 11th anniversary of my 39th birthday). I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if you evolve into someone so curious that you, too, have to write your own book(s) on HL! Yay for that!
Regarding HL’s autobiography, you should seek out a copy of the 1971 reprint, which has everything that the 1928 original has, plus a 1966 interview with HL. It is also MUCH cheaper than the original. Check here. (BTW, the hardcover is the 1928 original. WAY over 3 figures.)
Please keep in touch … and make suggestions for things you’d like to learn about HL. I am here to serve!
Hugs,
Annette
Sorry, the Amazon link didn’t come through. Here is the page that lists a bunch of copies of the paperback version of HL’s autobiography (the 1971 reprint, which I highly recommend, at least at this point, over the original from 1928 – it’s cheaper, and has more in it):
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0486226840/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&qid=1326896951&sr=1-1&condition=used
Let me know how this works.
Annette
That’s certainly kind of you to say! It would definitely be a dream of mine to make a living through writing books on cinema history, restoring old film or running a movie theatre! Nothing’s better than working on something you love, right?
Thanks for the info on HL’s autobiography. I saw it on Amazon, but the process was a bit confusing for me. Namely the bit about the books being “Acceptable” or “Good”. I have the tendency of being OCD sometimes, so it drives me nuts when a book of mine is damaged (I bet that I could walk into a bookstore, place any one of the books I own on the shelf, and no one would notice it had been used before.) But, I guess that’s what you have to deal with if it’s not brand new.
I’ll try and see if my library has any of your books. Probably not, considering I live in a tiny town with the smallest library I’ve ever seen. Who knows, they might surprise me.
I think I’ll take you up on that offer. Would you happen to have made that HL tribute titled “Harold Lloyd – Real Man!” that’s on YouTube? It says that it was created and edited by a certain Annette D’Agostino Lloyd for a 2002 film conference…
Oh, and the link works great: now just to find one I like and snag it before someone else does.
Alice
I love it Annette!!! I love the HL Sightings idea. I cant wait to spend some major time around here! 🙂
Great work AL!
Yes I think the HL sightings should be in one category maybe just named the “HL sightings”. In one place.
I think that the ones you have under “the films” and “the life” category at present, should perhaps be put on that one place.
Annette,
Yes, I was able to comment.
Is that first comment considered a “register”?
I can get to other categories on the site, but only can see the top of the list. Opening the other groups, the sub-categories roll down behind the front screen.
Agnes
Hi Agnes! I would think that the comment would be considered a register, as you needed to put your name in, in order to comment at all.
Also, I have to check on how to get to the bottom of a lengthy list; whether we can get to the bottom of the list at all. Good find!
Annette
Hi All –
So far, on my computer, no list is longer than my computer screen, so I don’t know what will happen when it gets any longer.
Here’s a question: Should I put all images (what I call HL Sightings) on one page, so it doesn’t contribute to a category getting too lengthy? Would that be more helpful for all? Let me know.
Annette
amazing re vamp, really lovely – thank you Annette for all you do XXX Emilia ( in the UK ) XXX
Just visited now. Looks like a very interesting site on all things Harold Lloyd. The greatest silent film star of all time in my opinion (and not so bad in a few of the talkies either!).
I think this web space is very promising, and will be a hit as well!
So far the re-vamp looks great. All the “new news & comments” right as you walk in the door.
Hopefully the general info is still all accessable?
Can I “register” without belonging to Facebook or Twitter ( which I don’t and won’t join)?
Agnes McFadden
Agnes: As far as I know, you can most definitely register for my site without having to belong to any social site. I connect this site to them because it furthers the interactive nature of my site (which is what I’ve wanted all along). Let me know if you have any trouble, but I don’t think you will. And, thanks!
Annette
Hi Annette- new site looks great- Really like the layout.
all the best,
Buckey